Teak stands up well to weather, but stays looking good for decades only with the right cleaning and care.
Why teak needs its own care routine
Teak is an oil-rich, hard wood that resists moisture and sunlight exceptionally well even untreated. But the wrong cleaning products or overly aggressive scrubbing wear down the wood's softer grain and can grey or streak the deck.
Regular cleaning
Light dirt and salt film usually lift off with just water and a soft brush. For more stubborn grime, use wood cleaners designed specifically for teak and other boat wood, without wearing the surface down unnecessarily.
Restoring greyed teak
Teak greyed by the sun can often be brought back closer to its original tone with light sanding along the grain, followed by a careful wash. Avoid heavy sanding, since it thins the deck plank a little more each time.
Seams and strips
Check teak deck seams and teak strips regularly - loose or cracked seams let water under the deck. A new or repaired seam protects the deck for the long term.
To oil or not to oil
Some boaters oil teak to keep its glossy dark tone, others let it grey naturally - both work fine as long as cleaning is done regularly. An oiled surface needs more frequent upkeep, since the oil wears off in the sun and with use.
Summary
· Use cleaners made for teak, not general-purpose cleaners or heavy scrubbing.
· Sand greyed teak gently and only when needed - too much sanding thins the deck.
· Check the seams regularly so water can't get under the deck.
