Why teak ticks all the boxes

Teak is a tropical hardwood tree species known scientifically as Tectona grandis. It is highly prized for its durability, strength and aesthetic qualities, making it one of the most sought-after materials for furniture and building materials, especially in outdoor and marine environments.

Teak's timeless appeal

Teak wood has a naturally rich golden-brown colour and a tight grain pattern, making it stand out in any setting. Over time, if left untreated, it gracefully weathers to a chic silvery-grey hue, a characteristic highly prized by many homeowners for its sophisticated, natural look. This transformation doesn't just add character; it also tells a story of enduring beauty.

The durability of teak

Teak wood contains natural oils and a tight grain pattern that makes it exceptionally resistant to water, rot and insects, including termites. These properties allow it to withstand extreme weather conditions and make it suitable for use in environments where other types of wood might deteriorate quickly.

Explore our selection of teak furniture

At vidaXL, teak furniture is available across a broad spectrum of categories. Teak furniture offers a wide range of options, catering to different uses and spaces in your home or garden. Its natural durability and attractive appearance make it suitable for various furniture types. Let’s take a closer look at the kinds of teak furniture you can incorporate into your lifestyle.

Benches

Teak benches are a staple for gardens and patios. These benches blend seamlessly with the natural environment, great for creating a serene spot to enjoy the outdoors. Often found in parks and outdoor spaces, they are designed to withstand the elements, ageing gracefully into a lovely silver-grey patina that many find appealing.

Cabinets and storage

Teak cabinets and storage units bring warmth and elegance to any room. Whether it’s a kitchen cupboard, a bathroom storage unit or a decorative cabinet in the living room, teak’s moisture-resistant properties and robustness make it ideal for storage solutions that are both functional and beautiful.

Chairs

From dining chairs to armchairs, teak chairs offer comfort and durability. Teak chairs can create a sophisticated, inviting meal setting in the dining room. Teak armchairs in the living room or on the patio provide a sturdy yet comfortable seating option that lasts for years.

Office furniture

Teak office furniture, including desks and bookcases, adds a touch of class and professionalism to any workspace. Teak’s solid construction ensures it can handle the rigours of daily use, making it a practical choice for a home office or a commercial setting.

Outdoor furniture

Teak as garden furniture works well due to its natural oil content that repels water and prevents decay. From sun loungers to dining furniture, teak outdoor furniture is designed to endure through seasons, offering style and practicality for any exterior space.

Shelving

Teak shelving units are sturdy and display a natural beauty that enhances the items stored on them. Ideal for books, decorative items or even kitchen essentials, teak shelves can sustain considerable weight and maintain their form without warping.

Tables

Teak tables come in various styles and sizes, from grand dining tables to quaint coffee tables. Each piece brings a unique grain pattern, making it a focal point in any room or outdoor setting. Teak’s resistance to stains and scratches makes it particularly suitable for dining and family gatherings.

Trolleys

Teak trolleys are versatile, mobile solutions for kitchens, dining rooms or even outdoors. Use them to transport food and drinks or as portable storage that's easy to move around. Their durability ensures they can handle frequent use and heavy loads.

TV stands & TV cabinets

Teak TV stands and cabinets combine functionality with aesthetics, providing a secure base for your television and related electronics. Their rich texture and colour add a nice touch to your media room or living area while offering practical storage for all your equipment.

How to style your teak furniture

Styling your teak furniture effectively can enhance both its appearance and the ambience of your space. Here are four key tips to consider when decorating with teak furniture.

1. Complement natural tones

Teak has a warm, rich hue that pairs beautifully with natural elements and colours. Consider complementing your teak furniture with greens, blues and earth tones in your cushions, throws and accessories. This creates a soothing, cohesive outdoor or indoor environment that highlights the natural beauty of the wood.

2. Add textural contrast

To add depth and interest to your space, mix materials and textures. Pair your teak furniture with metal accents, glass tabletops or woven rugs. This variety of textures will enrich the aesthetic of your setting and draw attention to the the teak wood.

3. Use vibrant accents

While teak looks great with natural colours, it also serves as a good backdrop for vibrant accents. Brightly coloured pillows, ceramic planters or bold artwork can add a pop of colour that contrasts beautifully with the teak’s golden-brown shade, making the space more lively and inviting.

4. Create functional layouts

Arrange your teak furniture to facilitate conversation and comfort. In outdoor spaces, set up teak loungers around a central coffee table or fire pit to create a welcoming area for gathering. Indoors, a teak dining table can be the centrepiece, surrounded by matching teak chairs and complemented by soft, ambient lighting to enhance meals and socialising.

How to maintain teak furniture

Maintaining teak furniture is relatively straightforward due to its natural durability and resistance to weather, but proper care can further extend its life and keep it looking its best. Here are some key tips for maintaining your teak furniture.

1.Regular cleaning

For regular cleaning, use a soft brush or cloth and a mixture of mild soap and water. Gently scrub the surface to remove dirt and grime. Rinse the furniture with clean water and let it air dry.

If the teak has developed stains or has weathered to a grey colour and you wish to restore its original golden hue, a more thorough cleaning with a specialised teak cleaner may be necessary. These cleaners can help restore the wood’s natural colour and also remove tougher stains.

2. Avoid harsh chemicals

Avoid harsh chemicals or pressure washers, which can damage the wood's surface. Stick to cleaners specifically designed for teak or gentle, natural solutions.

3.Sanding

If your teak furniture has become rough or if you want to restore its original smoothness and colour, light sanding might be required. Use fine-grit sandpaper and sand in the direction of the grain to avoid scratching the wood. This can help remove the grey patina and return the original golden colour.

4. Oiling

Teak usually does not require oil for protection, but applying teak oil can enhance the colour and appearance of the wood. Oiling teak furniture can help maintain its rich colour and also give a bit of added protection against the elements. However, it’s important to note that oiling exterior teak can lead to increased maintenance as it may need to be reapplied every few months, especially if the furniture is exposed to the elements.

5. Protecting

When not in use, especially during adverse weather conditions, it’s good to use a protective cover on your outdoor teak furniture. When it’s off-season, it’s best to store your teak furniture in a dry, well-ventilated area to protect it from extreme temperatures and prolonged moisture exposure. If storage space is limited, ensure the furniture is covered and lifted off the ground.

This helps to prevent moisture buildup and protect the wood from excessive moisture and debris. Avoid placing teak furniture in areas where it will sit in water or where moisture can collect, such as directly on grass.

6. Immediate action on spills

Clean up any spills immediately to prevent staining. Although teak is water-resistant, oils and other liquids can seep into the wood and cause stains if not wiped up promptly. 

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