Less is More When Caring for a Teak Patio Set

A teak patio set lasts surprisingly well with no maintenance. For those who really prize that new look, however, a teak patio set will require a little extra care. I have often found that a little preventive maintenance actually saves time in the long run.

You can start with this step. Keep your teak patio set covered, or store it indoors whenever you aren’t using it for an extended period. A cover can also help guard a teak patio set from precipitation, but you should take care that the cover isn’t trapping moisture underneath for long periods. This can promote mildew on your teak patio set.

Secondly, you can apply teak oil or an alternative protectant designed to condition the wood and restore the original coloring. Depending on the formulation, it may also darken the wood.

But I’ve found that less is more—in several areas of life. When it comes to a teak patio set, you shouldn’t oil any more frequently than a few times a year. Excessive oiling can actually blacken the teak patio set. And of course, if I wanted a black patio set, I wouldn’t buy teak. I don’t imagine you would, either.

In most cases, cleaning is as simple as water and mild soap. You can buy special cleaning solutions, but these are optional.