Teak is a very hard, dense and oily wood that does not absorb anything easily.
There is no need to do anything to an untreated teak surface.
We recommend waxing or oiling surfaces used for cooking or eating.
If you decide to wax or oil your furniture, always treat it on a clean and dry surface. Please note that the treatment will darken the color of the wood. Test the treatment on an inconspicuous area first.
Waxing
Wood wax provides additional protection to the surface, preventing the wood surface from staining.
A clear wax such as Osmocolor clear wax is a good protection and only a very thin layer is needed on the wood surface. The treatment should be done with a good quality brush and a cotton cloth. Do not use a foam brush.
Apply a very thin layer of wax with a brush and wipe off any excess wax with a rag. If you apply too much wax and the surface becomes too dark, let the wax dry completely and then sand the wax off.
Treat the wood on both sides if you are treating a tabletop. The treatment will moisten the wood and if you only treat one side, the wood may start to warp.
You can also tint teak if you want to change its color. However, test the colored wax on an inconspicuous area first to see what the final color will be. Apply the wax in very thin layers. It is easier to add layers if you want to strengthen the color than to sand it off.
Waxing should typically be done every 2 years. You will notice when the surface needs a new waxing. The need for re-treatment depends on the intended use and whether the furniture is indoors or outdoors.
Oiling
If teak is not treated and the furniture is kept outdoors, over time it will turn a beautiful grey. If you want to restore the natural colour of the teak, first sand the surface lightly with sandpaper and then oil the surface.
Teak oil is a good treatment, especially if you keep your furniture outdoors. The oil darkens the color of the teak considerably.
China wood oil also works great for outdoor furniture, but it also darkens somewhat.
Treat the wood from both sides. The treatment will moisten the wood and if you only treat one side, the wood may start to warp.
Oiling is necessary every 1-2 years. You will notice when the surface needs re-oiling. The need for re-oiling depends on the intended use and whether the furniture is indoors or outdoors.
