Maintenance Instruction

What Not to Do

To clean a boat's teak deck or table tops using only mild methods, the focus must be on using gentle tools and techniques to avoid damaging the soft wood fibers.

Do not use a high-pressure cleaner/washer. The intense force will blast away the softer wood grain, creating a rough, uneven surface with ridges that collect dirt and accelerate wear, significantly shortening the deck's lifespan.
Do not use harsh chemicals, two-part cleaners (acids/bleaches), or strong detergents. These strip the natural protective oils (oleoresin) from the teak, which makes the wood brittle, changes its color, and can damage the caulking between planks.
Do not use hard-bristled brushes, conventional scrubbing brushes, or abrasive pads. These tools are too aggressive and will erode the soft fibers, causing premature wear and tear.
Do not allow dirt to build up. Regular, gentle cleaning prevents ingrained dirt that would otherwise require aggressive cleaning methods later.

Maintenance Instruction (Using Only Soap, Water, and Sponge)

The best method for regular upkeep is a simple, gentle wash to remove surface dirt and salt before it becomes embedded.

Rinse the deck thoroughly with fresh water to remove loose dirt, salt, and debris.
Prepare a cleaning solution using a mild, pH-neutral soap (like a gentle boat soap, mild dish detergent, or even a specific teak cleaning product) mixed with a bucket of fresh or clean seawater.
Apply the solution to the wet deck using a soft sponge or a very soft, feathered-bristle deck brush.
Scrub gently across the grain of the wood, never with the grain. The key is light pressure to lift the dirt without abrading the wood fibers.
Rinse the deck thoroughly with fresh water to remove all traces of soap and dislodged dirt. Any leftover soap residue can cause the deck to become slippery and can cause discoloration.

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