Unfinished Indoor Teak Dining Table Care and Maintenance

6 years ago

I have an unfinished teak indoor dining table that I purchased about 15 years ago. I've never treated the wood with products. One end of the table (where we eat most) is covered in oil stains from food. I'm looking for recommendations on the best way to remove the stains and then tips to best maintain /protect the surface going forward. I do like the raw/unfinished look. So I would rather not seal. I think:) For the stains--I've read recommendations from cleaning with salt and lemon, bleach or vinegar to refinishing with a palm sander. Then using "teak oil" after. If anyone has experience in this area, I would love to hear from you!

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (2)

PRO
retired
6 years ago
I would probably wipe with a cloth dampened in acetone (outdoors). This will probably pull off most of the oils. You may need to clean then with a weak solution of dish detergent on and water on a damp rag if any water-soluble stains exist. Then a light sanding when dry. If you choose the "unfinished" look, you'll have to repeat once in a while. That is two of the three objectives of finishing -- beautify, protect, and provide a cleanable surface. Teak oil is not one thing, it's whatever the manufacturer wants to call it. It is not oil derived from teak wood, it's either a non-curing mineral oil, a curing common oil like linseed, a varnish, or a blend of both linseed oil and varnish. Just be sure to wipe off the excess after applying. https://www.popularwoodworking.com/feb15/teak-oil-oil-doesnt-exist/

https://www.popularwoodworking.com/woodworking-blogs/teak-oil-what-is-it/
Carol Franksen
Original Author
6 years ago
Thank you so much. I appreciate your feedback!
Related Professionals
Las Cruces Cabinets & Cabinetry · McAllen Flooring Contractors · Laconia Flooring Contractors · Vincennes Home Stagers · Hackettstown Home Stagers · Fort Dodge Custom Closet Designers · Chatham Custom Closet Designers · Fayetteville Furniture & Accessories · Abilene Furniture & Accessories · Gary Furniture & Accessories · DeRidder Carpenters · Dallas Carpenters · Saginaw Carpenters · Tuscaloosa Cabinets & Cabinetry · Butte Cabinets & Cabinetry