March 12, 2026

How to Care for Your Outdoor Furniture

Teak, Concrete & HDPE Made Simple

There’s nothing better than stepping outside and enjoying your patio on a warm New England day. Whether you’ve invested in beautiful teak dining sets, a sleek concrete table, or low-maintenance HDPE seating, taking care of your outdoor furniture doesn’t have to be complicated.

Here’s a friendly, easy-to-follow guide to keeping everything looking its best — season after season.

Teak Furniture Care

Teak is a tropical hardwood prized for its durability and natural oils. Those oils make it incredibly weather-resistant — which is why it’s such a popular choice for outdoor furniture in climates like ours.

Over time, teak naturally changes from a warm honey-brown to a soft silver-gray patina. Some homeowners love that aged look. Others prefer to maintain the original golden tone. Either way, proper cleaning keeps it beautiful.

Routine Cleaning (The 5 Simple Steps)

1. Wash with mild soap and water
Use warm water and a gentle soap with a soft cloth. For stubborn spots, use a soft-bristled brush. Avoid abrasive pads.

2. Treat mold carefully
Mix ½ cup regular bleach with 1 gallon of water. Wearing gloves, apply with a sponge, let sit 5 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.

3. Use teak cleaner for tough stains
For grease or deep-set stains, use a teak-specific cleaner and follow product directions.

4. Rinse gently
Use a garden hose. Skip the pressure washer — high pressure strips away teak’s protective oils.

5. Dry in the shade
Let furniture dry naturally out of direct sun to prevent cracking or splitting.

How Often Should You Clean Teak?

• Deep clean: Once per year
• Quick clean: Anytime you see spills, bird droppings, mold, or heavy dirt

Preventing Water Stains

Teak resists water, but stains can happen.

• Use coasters and placemats
• Wipe spills immediately
• Remove cushions after heavy rain

If staining occurs, lightly sand with 120-grit sandpaper in the direction of the grain.

Winter Protection

Teak can handle snow and rain, but in harsh winters, a breathable furniture cover offers extra protection. Avoid plastic covers that trap moisture.

Want to Keep the Original Brown Color?

Without treatment, teak will turn silver-gray over time. If you prefer the original tone:

• Apply a teak sealer once per year
• Always test in a small area first
• Wear gloves and eye protection
• Allow furniture to dry in shade after application

Concrete Table Maintenance

Concrete tables make a bold statement outdoors — but they do require protection to stay looking smooth and stain-free.

Daily / Weekly Care

• Clean with mild, pH-neutral soap and warm water
• Use a soft cloth or sponge
• Wipe spills immediately (especially wine, citrus, oil)
• Dust off leaves and debris regularly

Long-Term Protection

• Seal annually or biannually with a high-quality concrete sealer
• Wax twice per year for extra protection (buff gently in circular motions)
• Use coasters and placemats
• Avoid placing hot or sharp items directly on the surface

What to Avoid

• No vinegar or acidic cleaners
• No abrasive household cleaners
• No pressure washers
• No cutting directly on the surface

Winter Care

In freezing New England temperatures, concrete should be covered or stored to protect it from freeze-thaw damage.

HDPE Furniture Care