Teak Is Tough, But Not Maintenance-Free
Teak is one of the most durable outdoor furniture materials available, which is why it’s a favourite across Brisbane and wider Queensland. Its natural oils protect it from moisture, mould, and pests, making it perfect for backyards, patios, and poolside areas.
But while teak is low-maintenance, it’s not no-maintenance. Brisbane’s UV-heavy summers, high humidity, and seasonal downpours can still cause colour changes, surface mould, or drying over time. If you want your teak furniture to look good and last for decades, a few simple care habits make all the difference.
Here’s how to keep your teak looking its best in Brisbane weather.
Understand the Natural Weathering Process
When exposed to the elements, untreated teak will slowly transition from its original golden-brown colour to a soft, silver-grey patina. This is a completely natural and expected process, caused by the sun, rain, and oxygen in the air.
This colour change doesn't affect the structural integrity of the wood. In fact, many people prefer the silvery look as it gives a relaxed, coastal character to the furniture.
If you're happy with this weathered appearance, you don’t need to do anything. Just keep the furniture clean and let nature take its course.
If You Want to Keep the Golden Colour…
Some homeowners prefer to preserve teak’s original honey tone. To do that, you’ll need to apply a teak sealer or teak protector, which slows the oxidisation process and maintains the rich wood colour.
Do not use standard wood oils or varnishes - they can cause mildew or make the surface sticky. Instead, use a water-based teak protector applied with a cloth or brush. Reapply every 6–12 months, depending on sun exposure.
Make sure the furniture is clean and completely dry before applying any treatment.
Cleaning Teak: Keep It Simple
Cleaning teak is straightforward. You don’t need special products or high-pressure hoses—in fact, those can do more harm than good.
Here’s a quick method:
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Mix warm water with a small amount of mild soap or dish detergent.
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Use a soft brush or cloth to scrub the surface gently, following the grain of the wood.
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Rinse with clean water.
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Let the furniture dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area.
This can be done every few months, or whenever the furniture starts to look dusty or discoloured.
Removing Stains and Mould
Brisbane’s humidity means surface mould can appear, especially if your teak furniture is in a shaded or poorly ventilated area. Most of the time, this is just surface-level and can be cleaned off easily.
If you see black spots or green patches, create a solution using one part white vinegar to four parts water. Scrub gently, rinse thoroughly, and allow the wood to dry fully.
Avoid bleach or harsh cleaners - they can strip the teak’s natural oils and damage the surface.
What About Sanding?
Sanding is only needed if the teak surface becomes rough, heavily stained, or uneven. Always use fine-grade sandpaper (180–220 grit), and sand in the direction of the grain.
Sanding will remove the grey patina and bring back the original golden tone, which is useful if you’re restoring an older piece or preparing it for a new coat of teak protector.
After sanding, wipe the surface clean with a damp cloth and let it dry before sealing.
Tips for Placement and Protection
Where you place your teak furniture has a big impact on how fast it weathers.
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In full sun: The colour will fade faster, but teak will hold strong structurally.
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Under cover: The wood stays golden longer but may be more prone to mould if ventilation is poor.
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On lawns or grass: Moisture from the ground can cause the legs to weather unevenly. Use pavers or place the furniture on a solid surface if possible.
During extreme weather or long periods of non-use, use a breathable furniture cover. Never use plastic tarps - they trap moisture and can cause mildew.
Teak Furniture in Brisbane: Worth the Effort
Teak isn’t just beautiful - it’s one of the few natural materials that can genuinely handle Brisbane’s weather with minimal fuss. With some basic cleaning and the occasional treatment, your teak setting will stay strong and attractive for 10, 15, even 25 years or more.
Whether you like the golden glow or the silvered finish, the key is understanding how teak behaves and giving it the occasional bit of care it deserves.
Find Premium Teak Furniture Built for Queensland
At Lume Outdoor Living, we stock a wide range of premium teak outdoor furniture designed to last in Queensland’s harshest conditions. Visit our Brisbane showroom or shop online to find benches, tables, lounges and chairs that bring natural warmth and long-term value to your outdoor space.
