Outdoor Teak Care & Maintenance Guide

Our handcrafted pieces are made from plantation-grown teak, a hardwood rich in natural oils and silicates. These oils give teak exceptional resistance to moisture, rot and insects, making it ideal for outdoor environments. Our proprietary finish gives the wood a pale brown tone that will gracefully weather to a silvery grey over time; slight variations in grain and tone are a natural part of teak’s evolution.

Cover your furniture

To protect your furniture from airborne impurities and pollution, we recommend covering it when not in use for prolonged periods. Breathable covers help keep dust and pollen off your furniture without trapping moisture.

Beeswax for the initial finish

During the first season you may choose to apply a quality beeswax polish to nourish and protect the wood. Beeswax creates a moisture-resistant layer without changing the colour, allowing water to bead on the surface and shielding the grain from minor scratches. Apply a thin coat with a soft cloth, let it sit for about 10 minutes and buff to a natural sheen. Reapply every few months if water stops beading.

Sealer to restore the natural colour

Beeswax is a sacrificial finish that will wear away under sun and rain. For longer-term protection and to restore the teak’s natural orange-hued colour, we recommend switching to a Semco™ teak sealer. This sealer inhibits the sun’s ultraviolet rays from “aging” the wood. The natural formulation will initially give the wood a brighter, more orange tone than Sabi’s proprietary finish; however, this warm colour will mellow and soften quickly outdoors, blending harmoniously with the environment.

Preparing the surface: If you have applied beeswax or if the wood has weathered, clean the surface thoroughly with mild soap and water. Use a soft plastic-bristle brush to remove any residue; avoid metal or harsh scrubbing pads that can scratch open-grained teak. Rinse well and allow the furniture to dry completely before sealing.

Applying the sealer: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for a two-coat application. A single gallon of Semco sealer covers 8–10 pieces of furniture. After the initial treatment, spot re-apply as needed when the colour begins to fade. When the original sealer has worn away—timing depends on your environment—clean with mild soap and water, let the teak dry completely, then reapply the sealer.

Note for black-finished pieces: If your Sabi furniture has a black finish or includes some black wood, please contact us for a custom finish to restore the wood’s appearance. A specialised treatment is required for these pieces to maintain their unique colour; our team will be happy to advise you on the correct products and application.

Cleaning and routine maintenance

Regular cleaning

Like any outdoor piece, teak furniture will collect pollen and dirt. Hose off your furniture frequently to remove surface impurities. Use a garden hose only; a power washer can damage the wood grain. For stubborn spots, wash gently with a mixture of mild, pH-neutral soap and clean water using a non-abrasive sponge or cloth. Rinse thoroughly and allow the furniture to air dry in sunlight. Always remove cushions before cleaning.

Hardware and cushion care

Stainless-steel hardware: Use a buffing cloth to clean stainless steel. Always wipe in the direction of the metal’s grain. For heavy build-up or stains, apply a stainless-steel cleaner (e.g., Bar Keepers Friend) and follow the manufacturer’s instructions, taking care not to get any cleaner on the teak.

Cushions: Our cushions and pillows are designed for outdoor use, but they will last longer if stored in a dry area when not in use. If they become wet, unzip the covers and stand them on end to facilitate drying.

Fabric care: When cleaning cushion covers or other fabric elements, always follow manufacturer’s recommendations.

Sabi Furniture is crafted to age gracefully with minimal care. Because teak contains a high oil content, you may occasionally notice faint watermarks or tonal shifts on new or freshly sanded pieces; this natural oil surfacing will even out as the wood matures. Covering your furniture, nourishing it with beeswax during the first season and then sealing it to restore the natural colour will help the wood age beautifully. Regular rinsing and seasonal cleaning will keep your furniture looking its best, and our team is available to advise on custom finishes for black pieces. With proper care, your Sabi furniture will provide decades of outdoor enjoyment.