Maintenance and Care

Teak

Natural Weathering

To maintain naturally weathered teak:

  • Clean gently 1-2 times per year using mild detergent, water, and a soft brush or sponge.
  • Use a specialized teak cleaner for deeper cleaning.
  • Occasionally sand lightly with fine-grit paper along the grain to smooth the surface.

Avoid pressure washers, harsh chemicals, bleach, steel wool, or stiff wire brushes, as these may damage or discolor the wood.

Preserving the Golden-Brown Color

To maintain teak’s original golden-brown color or for added stain protection:

  • Apply a high-quality teak sealer annually.
  • Consider using a teak protector to create an additional barrier against moisture and stains. Protectors with mold and mildew inhibitors are recommended.
  • Do use mild detergents, gentle brushes or cloths, and annual teak cleaners.
  • Do sand gently and always along the grain.
  • Don't apply general wood oils, varnishes, or paints—teak's natural oils make these unnecessary.
  • Don't use power washers or abrasive cleaning tools.

Understanding Teak’s Natural Characteristics


Teak releases natural oils during the first few months. Avoid placing new pieces on porous or light-colored surfaces until this settles. Like all natural wood, teak expands and contracts with humidity and temperature, which is why our furniture uses slatted designs. If storing indoors, avoid rapid temperature changes to prevent splitting.

Aluminum

Powder-coated aluminum resists rust and corrosion without the maintenance teak requires. Clean periodically with mild soap and water using a soft cloth or sponge. Dry thoroughly after cleaning to prevent water spots. Avoid abrasive cleaners or steel wool, which can scratch the finish.

Rope Furniture

Our woven rope uses a polyester core wrapped in weather-resistant acrylic yarn. It's built for outdoor use but benefits from regular cleaning.

Regular Care

  • Brush off dirt regularly; promptly clean up spills.
  • Spot-clean stains immediately using mild detergent and lukewarm water (below 100°F).
  • Rinse thoroughly and air dry completely.

Tough Stains and Mildew

  • Mix a solution of four teaspoons household bleach, one teaspoon mild detergent, and one to one and a half cups lukewarm water.
  • Apply gently, soak for 15 minutes, then scrub lightly with a soft sponge or brush.
  • Rinse thoroughly and air dry completely.

Bleach Precautions

Use diluted bleach only (never full strength). Remove cushions before cleaning and protect surrounding surfaces. Follow all safety instructions on bleach labels.

Performance Fabrics and Cushions


Our cushions use solution-dyed acrylic fabrics chosen for colorfastness, durability, and resistance to fading and stains. Most are Sunbrella or equivalent performance fabric.

Routine Care

Brush off loose dirt regularly. Blot spills immediately with a clean dry cloth. For routine cleaning, mix mild detergent with lukewarm water, apply gently, rinse thoroughly, and air dry.

Deep Cleaning

Apply a mild detergent solution, scrub gently, rinse thoroughly, and air dry. Reapply fabric protector annually to maintain water and stain resistance.

Removing Mold or Mildew

  • Use a diluted solution of four teaspoons bleach and one teaspoon mild detergent per one to one and a half cups lukewarm water.
  • Apply gently, let soak for 15 minutes, lightly scrub, rinse thoroughly (at least three times), and air dry completely.

Fabric Pilling

Pilling is natural and harmless and typically diminishes over time. A fabric shaver removes it easily if needed.