If you own a teak shower bench, you know how easy it is to get dirty from soap and everyday use. Regular cleaning should be a top priority to ensure the bathroom furniture’s longevity. In this post, you’ll learn the most effective ways to keep your teak bench clean.
You can clean a teak shower bench by combining water, soap, and vinegar. This mixture is potent enough to remove most types of debris in no time.
That said, it is essential to know the exact ingredient ratio of the cleaning solution for the best results. Below, we will guide you step-by-step when creating this mixture. We will also discuss other methods to clean your teak shower bench and in turn, prolong its lifespan.
How to Clean a Teak Shower Bench?
Cleaning teak shower benches are relatively simple. All you will need is a few household products and little guidance.
Below is a step-by-step guide on cleaning a teak shower bench.
Prepare the Working Area
Ensure everything is ready before cleaning the teak shower chair.
Start by removing any accessories on the wooden bench. These include grab bars, handles, shower caddies, and more. You will need to wash them separately.
Next, choose an appropriate place for cleaning. You can stay in the bathroom—just remember to move the teak bench away from curtains, rags, or anything that easily gets stained. Or you can transfer to the backyard or garage to ensure a larger working space.
After, prepare the following items:
- A soft-bristled brush
- Cleaning wipes or cloth
- Dish cleaning solution
- Mild soap bar
- Vinegar or bleach
- A large bottle or container for mixing
- A measuring cup
Place these materials close to the teak shower bench for your convenience.
Create the Cleaning Solution
Now that you have prepared the necessary materials, it is time to make a cleaning solution for your teak bathroom bench.
Pour a half cup of vinegar into a bowl container.
Then, add a half cup of water.
Finally, take two to three tablespoons of dish soap or liquid in the container. Thoroughly mix the ingredients.
If you prefer a ready-made solution, you can buy dedicated teak cleaners. You will find these items on home improvement stores and e-commerce sites.
Apply the Solution
After creating or buying the cleaning solution, apply it to your teak shower bench.
Dampen a clean cloth on the soapy mixture. Then, gently wipe dirt and dust off the teak chair.
Remember to follow the wood grain for thorough cleaning.
You can also use a soft-bristled brush to remove more stubborn debris. Just ensure to use a gentle hand while scrubbing to prevent accidental damage.
Continue cleaning the teak shower chair until you are satisfied with the results.
Rinse and Dry
Once you achieve clean teak shower benches, you can rinse them with warm water.
Use a regular shower or garden hose to wash away the cleaning solution. Avoid power washing because it can leave dents and pits on the wooden surface.
After rinsing, check every corner of the teak stool for soap residue. If there is still some soap scum, resume washing. Proceed to dry once the bathroom furniture is spotless.
Leave the shower bench outside to dry completely before using it. The exact drying time depends on the size of your furniture and outdoor temperature.
How to Maintain a Teak Shower Bench?
Regular cleaning is one of the best ways to restore a teak shower bench to its original beauty. But you might want to consider other methods to maintain the good health and look of teak wood.
The following are some maintenance tips for your teak shower chair.
Rinse the Shower Bench Regularly
Regularly using your teak shower bench attracts soap, shampoo, and other dirty residues. That is why it is important to rinse the wooden chair after each use.
Frequent washing with warm water can help remove dirt and debris in no time. It can also retain the natural shiny look of teak shower benches. Plus, it reduces the risk of mold and mildew growth.
Consider Sanding
Teak shower benches can resist moisture and weathering. But over time, their golden-brown color turns into a silver-gray patina.
Sand away affected areas if you want to restore the natural beauty of teak wood. Otherwise, leave the patina alone if you prefer its rustic appeal.
To sand the teak shower chair, get fine-grit sandpaper. Polish the surface following the wood grain’s direction until smooth. Remember to brush off sanding residue.
Apply Teak Oil
The next step to maintaining your teak shower bench is to apply teak oil or sealant.
These teak care products provide an additional layer of protection from elements. They deeply penetrate the wood pores and maintain the shiny look of the shower stool.
Remember that each product differs in terms of ingredients and effect on the wood. So follow the manufacturer’s directions for proper application.
In general, you will need a soft brush to apply teak oil or sealer. Wipe off excess product, then leave it to dry.
Ensure to put teak oil on the teak shower furniture every three to four months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you leave a teak bench in the shower?
You can use a teak chair in the shower, owing to the wood’s water resistance.
The teak material also contains pure wood oils to withstand moisture, humidity, and weathering. Plus, teak produces a natural resin that resists most insects and termites, except for hyblaea puera.
Teak shower benches can even endure constant sun exposure. They are ideal for outdoor shower stalls near the pool and bathrooms.
Despite these features, teak can age and fade like any other hardwood. It is essential to clean and maintain it to ensure longevity.
How long does teak wood last in the shower?
Teak wood has natural protective qualities. It can resist decay and rot with proper care and maintenance.
Hence, teak furniture pieces, such as shower benches, can last for 10 to 15 years. Some products can even last for decades due to the teak’s durability and resistance to outdoor elements.
What are the black spots on the teak bench?
While a teak shower bench is naturally resistant to moisture and humidity, it can eventually develop black spots.
These unsightly marks on the wooden surface are natural mold spores. They are a result of constant exposure to the outdoor environment. When left alone, they foster mold and mildew infestation. So it is essential to remove the black spots on the teak stool immediately.
How do you get black mold off a teak shower bench?
You can use an abrasive cleaning paste to remove black mold spots on teak wood. Combine a cup of baking soda with a few tablespoons of water until the solution is thick.
Leave the paste on the affected areas for a few minutes to absorb. Next, use a soft brush to apply the baking soda solution to the teak wood. Then, rinse with water and allow to dry before using the wooden furniture.
Avoid bleach and other strong cleaning solutions because they can strip off the natural protective teak oils. They also cause the wood to crack over time.
How do you keep the teak looking new?
You can maintain the beautiful golden tone of teak furniture by using a teak sealer. Apply this product with a brush to seal in natural oils. These lubricants can slow the weathering process to keep the teak looking new for a long time.
Conclusion
Daily use can get your teak shower bench dirty and susceptible to damage. Regular cleaning is a must to keep your teak furniture durable and beautiful. If you’re looking for a new shower bench for your home, check out these teak folding shower seats, teak benches, and teak stools.
You can buy or create your cleaning solution with water, soap, and vinegar. Apply it to your shower chair with a cloth or brush before rinsing and drying. You can also consider other care methods above to preserve your teak bathroom furniture.
Do you have your own way of cleaning teak furniture pieces? We’d love to hear from you!
