Teak Care & Maintenance Guide
Southern Komfort furniture is crafted from solid teak—one of the most durable and timeless materials for outdoor living. As a natural hardwood, each piece has its own unique grain and color, adding to its character. Over time, exposure to the elements may result in small hairline cracks. This is a normal part of the aging process and does not affect the furniture's strength or longevity.
Weathering & Natural AgingTeak naturally weathers to a soft silver-grey patina when exposed to sunlight and rain. This aging process varies with climate and use. Regular care can slow patina development if you prefer to preserve its original tone.
Care Guidelines
- Store and treat teak in a cool, dry space.
- Avoid abrasive cleaners or steel brushes.
- Clean before placing in long-term storage.
Best Practices
- Use protective covers when not in use.
- Remove water, leaves, or spills promptly to prevent stains.
- During rain, tilt cushions upright for quicker drying.
- For covered storage, remove cushions to reduce mildew risk.
Cleaning Instructions
- Brush lightly in the direction of the grain to remove dirt.
- Wash with mild, pH-neutral soap and water.
- Rinse thoroughly; do not use teak oil (it may trap moisture and cause staining).
Repairs & Maintenance
For mold or discoloration, lightly sand the teak using P80 to P220 grit sandpaper—always with the grain. Let the wood sit untreated for 1–2 weeks before applying any conditioner. Teak’s natural oils rise to the surface over time, especially in humid or hot weather. This may result in oil transfer onto cushions or fabrics. Avoid using light-colored or delicate fabrics, and consider non-reversible cushion designs.
To Treat Oil Surfacing or Stains:
- Rinse the frame with water.
- Clean with Golden Care® Teak Cleaner.
- Lightly sand any remaining marks with 120-grit paper.
- Apply Golden Care® Teak Shield for added resistance.
- Allow treated furniture to dry for 24 hours—do not cover during this time.
Important Note:
Avoid using varnish or sealants not made for teak—they can cause irreversible damage such as rot, blistering, or peeling.
Outdoor Upholstery Care & Maintenance
Southern Komfort's outdoor cushions feature “Dry Fast” foam, engineered to allow water to drain quickly and reduce drying times. During heavy or extended rainfall, cushions may become saturated. To aid drying, remove the cushions and stand them upright in a dry, sunny location. Sunbrella™ outdoor fabrics are designed for exceptional performance. For customer-supplied materials (COM), please consult the fabric manufacturer’s care guidelines for best results.
Care Guidelines
- Avoid abrasive cleaners, sponges, or steel brushes.
- Clean furniture before placing it in long-term or winter storage.
- Do not use bleach, hot water, or washing machines, which may damage materials. Follow the fabric manufacturer’s care instructions.
General Recommendations
- Use outdoor covers to protect furniture from weather and environmental conditions.
- Remove cushions when covering frames to prevent mold and mildew buildup.
- Promptly remove natural debris, food, and drink spills to reduce staining and mold growth.
- During periods of heavy rain, tilt Dry Fast seat cushions upright to aid drying.
Cleaning Instructions
- For routine cleaning, use a mild soap and water solution with a soft-bristled brush. Rinse thoroughly with cold water and allow to air dry.
- For stubborn stains, such as bird residue, apply a gentle cleanser.
- If necessary, remove fabric covers and hand-wash them in cold water. Do not tumble dry or apply heat.
Mildew Maintenance
- While mildew is often manageable with light, regular cleaning, persistent issues may require a diluted bleach solution:
- Mix ½ cup (4 oz.) of bleach with ¼ cup (2 oz.) of mild soap per ½ gallon of water.
- Gently scrub affected areas for no more than 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with cold water.
- Avoid fully immersing cushions in the solution.
- Bleach can compromise the fabric’s protective coating; we recommend reapplying a product such as Fabric Guard to restore repellency.
