Tag Archives: caring for your outdoor furniture

Cleaning and Storing Teak Furniture

Of all the outdoor furniture materials out there, teak is one of the most popular. In fact, it’s used more often than any other wood for outdoor furniture. Teak will last a lifetime, but you’ve got to maintain it properly. But how? Here are a few tips to get your teak cleaned and stored for the end of the season.

  1. Clean – Scrub with warm water, a light detergent and a soft bristle brush.
  2. Sand – Using a medium grit sanding block, sand the teak to even out the top layer of wood. Make sure that the color is even throughout.
  3. Dry – Allow teak to completely dry for a few days.
  4. Oil – In a well-ventilated area and using rubber gloves, lightly brush teak oil all over furniture. About three or four layers should do. Keep applying oil until you achieve the darkness and color you are going for.
  5. Seal – Apply a few coats of polyurethane to seal the oil. Let it dry for a few days.
  6. Store – Cover furniture and place it in an unheated garage or shed for the winter.

 

 

 

 

 

Image and information from Apartment Therapy

4 Ways to Care for Your Outdoor Furniture

Extend the life of your outdoor furniture this season by properly caring for it. Below are 4 tips on how to care for your outdoor furniture.

  1. Properly clean your outdoor furniture several times each year. If you have wood outdoor furniture than you should buy specific cleaner so you don’t ruin the finish.
  2. Make sure you protect your outdoor furniture with waterproof covers during the winter months. The covers will not only protect your furniture from the elements, but will prevent sun damage.
  3. Re-stain, paint and seal your furniture when needed.
  4. Check all the hardware on the furniture to make sure there aren’t any loose bolts or missing pieces.

Like anything you own, the better care you take of an item, the longer it will last. We’d love to hear any tips you might have for caring for your outdoor furniture, please leave your comments below.