Teak is a natural hardwood from tropical forests that withstands a variety of elements. It is an extremely durable and resistant to cracking and breakage, making it an excellent choice for outdoor furniture. Though teak furniture is very weather and moisture resistant, without proper treatment it can fade from a lovely honey-caramel color to a weathered gray-silver.

This color change is desired by many. It lends a weathered, antiqued look to teak furniture. However, if you want to retain the original honey-caramel color, you can take steps early on to ensure it remains looking like new.

Teak protectors are available from many manufacturers, and should be applied every season. These protectors work like most other wood protectors to seal, treat and protect the wood from the elements. Ideally, the protector you purchase will also protect the wood from mold and mildew, as well as drying of the wood from moisture.

Other methods of teak protection, such as teak oil, can be applied throughout the year. These require more effort, although may provide a better result that standard protectors, which can mildly alter the color of the wood. Any time you apply protector or oil, ensure the wood is clean and dry.

While it isn't necessary, you may wish to bring your teak furniture indoors when it isn't in use, such as during the winter. Teak is incredibly resistant to moisture, but, like all wood, can swell or mold if left to sit in standing water. Water may draw out the natural oils after many seasons of unprotected exposure, so if it's to be left outside throughout the winter, be sure to cover it with a tarp.

If you have decided to allow the teak to weather naturally and adopt the gray-silver patina, you should clean it regularly. You can do this with a soft scrub brush and a mixture of 3 parts laundry detergent, 1 part bleach and water. Many manufacturers also offer cleaners made specifically for teak furniture. Because the wood is extremely hard, it shouldn't require much scrubbing to clean.

When cleaning, you should inspect the wood to ensure it is smooth, with no splinters, bumps or warps. If the wood has become dry or rough, you can sand it lightly and apply a teak oil to recondition it after cleaning. With high quality furniture, any such imperfections will only be on the very surface.

Teak furniture should never be painted. Its high oil content and extremely hard nature make it next to impossible for paint to bond to the surface. The paint will quickly crack and peel from the surface. If you plan on painting your teak, ask the furniture manufacturer if there is a specific brand or type of paint that will properly adhere.