The Best Way to Clean Outdoor Teak Furniture: Expert Tips for Australian Homeowners

Outdoor teak furniture is renowned for its durability and timeless appeal. However, to maintain its beauty and longevity, regular cleaning is essential. In this guide, we'll explore effective methods to clean your teak garden furniture, including natural solutions like vinegar and the cautious use of pressure washers.

Why Teak Furniture Requires Special Care

Unlike softwoods or synthetic materials, teak is a dense hardwood naturally rich in oils. These oils protect it from rot, pests, and moisture damage. That means you don’t need to oil or seal it unless you want to—but regular cleaning will still keep it looking its best and prevent surface mould or staining.

Left untouched, teak will weather into a beautiful silvery-grey patina. Some people love this; others prefer the original golden-brown tones. Either way, cleaning helps maintain its integrity and prevents problems like mildew, black spots, or stubborn grime.

Everyday Cleaning (For Well-Maintained Furniture)

How often: Every few weeks, or whenever you spot bird droppings, sap, or spills.

1. Using Mild Soap and Water

Materials Needed:

• Mild dish soap (pH-neutral is best)

• Warm water

• Soft-bristle brush or sponge (not metal)

• Microfibre cloth

Steps:

1. Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water.

2. Gently scrub the furniture with the solution using a soft-bristle brush, following the wood grain.

3. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.

4. Wipe dry with a clean cloth.

Expert tip: Avoid using coloured sponges—they can transfer dye. If your furniture has cushions, remove them before washing and check for mould underneath.

2. Cleaning with Vinegar

This natural and eco-friendly cleaning solution is best for light mildew, greenish spots, and general discolouration.

Materials Needed:

• White vinegar

• Water (1:1 ratio)

• Spray bottle

• Old toothbrush or soft cloth

Steps:

1. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.

2. Spray the solution onto the affected area and let sit for 10–15 minutes.

3. Gently scrub with a soft brush or cloth.

4. Rinse well and let dry in full sun.

Expert tip: Test the vinegar solution on a small hidden section before doing the entire surface—especially if your teak has been pre-treated or stained.

Can You Use a Pressure Washer?

Short answer: Yes—but with caution.

We see a lot of damaged teak from pressure washers used incorrectly. If you go this route:

✅ Use the lowest pressure setting (ideally under 1200 PSI).

✅ Stand at least 30cm back from the surface.

✅ Use a wide spray nozzle (not a pinpoint nozzle).

✅ Move the nozzle continuously to prevent gouging – never hold the wand in one spot.

This method is suitable for restoring old, dirty teak and removing heavy black spots or ingrained grime. Please don’t use it with fine or delicate joinery, or furniture with visible cracks. 

Expert tip: After pressure washing, lightly sand the surface (180–220 grit) and let the wood dry for 24–48 hours before applying oil or protector.

For Weathered or Neglected Teak: Deep Clean & Restore

If your teak has turned grey and feels rough or dirty, try this two-step process:

1. Deep clean using a teak cleaner or oxalic acid-based product (available from hardware stores). These lift deep stains and even out the colour.

2. Lightly sand with fine-grit sandpaper to smooth the surface.

After cleaning, you can either leave the teak to age naturally or restore its honey tones with a teak oil or sealer.

Note: Teak oil darkens the wood and needs reapplying regularly. A teak sealer maintains the colour for longer but may eventually wear unevenly.

Additional Teak Furniture Maintenance Tips

✅ Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Steer clear of bleach or ammonia-based cleaners.
✅ Sanding: For stubborn stains, lightly sand the affected area with fine-grit sandpaper.
✅ Teak Oil: Applying teak oil can restore the wood's natural colour, but it's optional and based on personal preference.
✅ Protective Covers: Use furniture covers when not in use to protect against the elements.

Maintaining your teak outdoor furniture doesn't have to be daunting. With regular cleaning using mild soap, natural solutions like vinegar, and cautious use of pressure washers, you can preserve the beauty and integrity of your teak pieces for years to come.

FAQs

How often should I clean outdoor teak furniture? Light cleaning every 2–4 weeks keeps it in great shape. Deep cleaning 1–2 times a year is ideal.

Can I use bleach on teak? Avoid it. Bleach can dry out the wood and damage the grain.

Is sanding necessary every time I clean? No. Only sand when the surface feels rough or if you’re restoring old pieces.

What’s the difference between teak oil and sealer? Oil penetrates and enhances colour but needs frequent reapplication. Sealer offers longer-lasting UV protection but sits on the surface.

At Bay Gallery, our teak furniture is crafted from high-grade, sustainably sourced timber that stands up to Australian conditions. Whether you’re styling a coastal deck or an inner-city courtyard, we have timeless designs built for everyday use—and built to last.