British weather is famously unpredictable — one moment it’s sunny, the next it’s pouring rain. For homeowners in the UK investing in outdoor living spaces, teak wood furniture offers a timeless, durable, and low-maintenance solution. However, even teak — with all its natural oils and weather resistance — still needs basic care to perform at its best in wet climates.
This article is your complete guide to maintaining teak garden furniture in the UK, helping you keep it beautiful and functional year after year.
Why Teak is a Great Choice for the UK Climate
Teak (Tectona grandis) is one of the few woods naturally suited for the wet and cool conditions found in Britain. Here’s why:
- Natural oils make it water-resistant and rot-proof.
- Dense grain helps prevent warping and splitting.
- Minimal care needed – no need to bring it indoors after every rain.
- It ages beautifully, developing a silver-grey patina over time.
Maintenance Tips for Teak Furniture in Wet Weather
Follow these simple practices to extend the life and appearance of your teak furniture in the UK climate:
1. Let It Breathe Naturally
Don’t cover your teak furniture with plastic or airtight materials. Teak needs to breathe. Trapped moisture can lead to mold or black spots.
✅ Better: Use breathable outdoor covers or leave it open-air.
2. Clean Seasonally with Mild Soap
- Mix warm water with mild dish soap
- Use a soft bristle brush or sponge
- Scrub lightly along the wood grain
- Rinse thoroughly and let it dry
🧼 Do this 1–2 times per year (especially after winter or rainy months).
3. Teak Oil: Optional, Not Necessary
Teak doesn’t require oiling — but some UK homeowners prefer the golden look over the aged grey tone.
- Apply only on clean, dry wood
- Use a cloth or sponge
- Allow it to fully absorb and wipe off excess
- Reapply 1–2 times a year if desired
⚠️ Never apply oil on dirty or wet wood — it will trap moisture.
4. Use Oxalic Acid to Remove Black Spots
Black spots (often mold or tannin reaction) are common in wet climates like the UK.
- Mix oxalic acid with water
- Apply with a soft brush
- Let it sit 15 minutes
- Rinse thoroughly
This restores natural color without bleaching.
5. Avoid Power Washing
High-pressure cleaning can damage the grain or cause splinters. Stick to gentle hand cleaning.
Covering Teak Furniture: Yes or No?
UK homeowners often ask whether they should cover teak furniture.
- ✅ Use breathable covers (like polyester canvas)
- ❌ Avoid plastic tarps that trap condensation
- ✅ Elevate legs slightly off wet ground or puddles
- ✅ Remove cushions during heavy rains
Should You Bring Teak Indoors for Winter?
Not necessary, but optional:
- Solid teak can stay outside year-round in the UK
- However, folding furniture (like bistro sets or benches) can be stored in a shed to extend its life
How to Restore Old Teak Furniture in the UK
If you’ve neglected your teak for years and it’s grey, dirty, or stained — don’t worry. It can often be brought back to life:
Steps:
- Scrub with soapy water + soft brush
- Use teak cleaner or oxalic acid for deep stains
- Light sanding (optional) to refresh surface
- Oil if you want golden tone, or leave natural
Summary: Simple and Effective Maintenance
| Task | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cleaning | 1–2x per year | Use mild soap and water |
| Teak oil (optional) | 1–2x per year | Only if golden look desired |
| Mold removal | As needed | Oxalic acid works best |
| Storage | Optional | Use shed or breathable cover |
Buy Quality Teak Furniture – Made for the UK
We specialize in solid teak outdoor furniture handcrafted in Indonesia, made for the UK market’s wet climate. All our pieces are SVLK certified and export-ready.
- Folding benches and bistro sets
- Weatherproof lounge sets
- Dining sets with umbrella holes
- Custom size orders available