Cleaning Teak Furniture

Teak furniture is some of the most durable and long lasting furniture that you can get. Teak wood is used in flooring, on boats, as decking and in furniture. It's color and shine are notable, but its the wood's durability that have made it one of the most popular types of wood for furniture and flooring. The wood comes from trees which grow only in tropical climates near the equator, teak trees also require a climate with clear wet and dry seasons. If you have teak furniture then you know how beautiful it can look, but you may not know how to maintain it. Cleaning teak furniture is similar to cleaning other types of wood, however there are special cleaners directed specifically at teak furniture. Teak outdoor furniture ages faster than indoor furniture, but is still one of the best woods you can get for patio and outdoor furniture. Teak garden furniture is quite common among those seeking durable yet attractive furniture for their deck, patio or garden. Outdoors, teak attracts mold and mildew, and this can take away from the woods beautiful natural color. To clean the wood, and get the color back, you need to use a cleaner specifically for teak wood. Household bleach may not be strong enough to kill the spores that spread the mildew and mold. A pressure washer usually just damages finish and spreads dirt, without actually killing any bacteria. Using a one part cleaner you will have to do a little more work, but you will get a cleaner and healthier piece of furniture. To use the cleaner you will need to apply it and then use a soft brush or cloth to scrub gently for 15 minutes. After doing this you should rinse the wood. If you are cleaning indoors, you can use a wet cloth, outdoors a gentle rinse with a hose will work. If using a hose, it is a good idea to use bronze wool with the grain, so that it opens the pores of the wood and get the cleaner out. There are also two part cleaners, however these are a little harsher on the wood. To begin with, two part cleaners include an acid that is applied directly to the wood, this kills bacteria, and spores of mildew and mold. The acid is quite harsh, however, and can wear the wood. The second part is a neutralizer that clears the acid and helps to protect the wood from it. Teak polish is also something you should consider, while it isn't necessary, it can help you to maintain the shine and luster of your wood. Maintaining your teak is important, so keep it clean and polished and you will be rewarded with some of the longest lasting furniture available.