What Is The Best Teak Oil for Shower Bench [IN 2024]

What is teak oil?

Teak oil is a popular wood treatment used to protect and maintain teak and other fine wood surfaces. It is a penetrating oil that seeps deep into the wood fibers, providing protection against moisture, UV rays, and environmental elements. Unlike varnishes or lacquers that form a surface coating, teak oil enhances the natural beauty of the wood grain while allowing the wood to breathe.

Benefits of using teak oil

Using teak oil offers several benefits:

1. Protection against water damage and weathering
2. Enhances the natural color and grain of the wood
3. Prevents drying, cracking, and splitting of the wood
4. Extends the lifespan of wooden surfaces
5. Easy to apply and maintain

Importance of maintaining a shower bench

A shower bench is a functional and stylish addition to any bathroom, providing a comfortable seating area while showering. However, the constant exposure to water and humidity can take a toll on the wood, leading to discoloration, warping, and even mold growth. Proper maintenance with teak oil is crucial to keep your shower bench looking its best and ensuring its longevity.

Our Top 10 Picks

10 Best Teak Oil for Shower Bench Reviews

Minwax Teak Oil

Pros

• Protects against moisture and UV rays
• Enhances wood grain and natural warmth
• Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
• Clear finish preserves natural wood color

Cons

• Some users reported a strong odor
• May require multiple coats for optimal protection

User Reviews

“Used it for restoring an outdoor dining set – table and six chairs. The transformation was incredible… It’s like having a new set, and will treat it again because it was neglected for some time.” – Amazon user

“I wanted to try something new. This oil went on easily and dried quickly. The fumes from the oil were not overwhelming and dissipated quickly… I will definitely use this oil again.” – Amazon user

 Furniture Clinic Teak Oil

Pros

• Protects and restores indoor and outdoor teak wood
• Easy to apply and fast-drying
• Prevents drying, warping, and splitting
• Suitable for other hardwoods besides teak

Cons

• Some users reported a strong odor
• May require multiple coats for optimal protection

User Reviews

“After another furniture oil product damaged my teak sideboard, I bought this to try to fix it… Although the bottle’s instructions are for outdoor furniture, I’m using it on a non-varnished non-stained indoor teak piece and am so happy it seems to be working.” – Amazon user

“I have a set of IKEA outdoor table and chairs that was so weathered after 7 years… I cleaned the furniture with a brush and cloth, then used a clean cloth to apply two coats… All of them look so much better now and not sticky at all.” – Amazon user

AquaTeak Premium Teak Oil

Pros

• Penetrates deep into teak wood for ultimate protection
• Enhances natural wood grain and color
• Easy to use and dries quickly
• Designed specifically for teak wood

Cons

• Some users reported a strong odor
• May require multiple coats for optimal protection

User Reviews

“I purchased a teak shower bench from Aqua Teak and before assembling it I treated all of the wood pieces with their teak oil… It’s comforting to know I have done everything I can to preserve and protect my beautiful shower bench.” – Amazon user

“I just bought a teak shower seat,

STAR BRITE Premium Golden Teak Oil

Pros

• Provides superior protection for teak and fine woods
• Advanced formula with polymers and tung oil for extended protection
• Easy application with cloth, sponge, or brush
• Enhances natural wood grain and color with a warm golden hue
• Adjustable gloss level with additional coats
• Suitable for indoor and outdoor use

Cons

• Pre-treatment with cleaner/brightener needed for optimal results
• Some users reported a strong odor initially

User Reviews

“My wife and I love this stuff as it keeps our patio furniture looking brand new and in great condition. It’s fairly simple to apply, although we don’t exactly follow the directions as we use a brush instead of a rag.” – Amazon user

“I have used other teak oils but Starbrite has truly been outstanding. This product is easy to work with and seems to condition my teak making it look and feel much younger than it is.” – Amazon user

AquaTeak Premium Teak Oil

Pros

• Penetrates deep into wood for ultimate protection
• Enhances natural grain and color
• Easy to use and dries quickly
• Designed specifically for teak and fine woods

Cons

• Some users reported mild odor
• May require multiple coats

User Reviews

“I used on a shower corner stool that needed a refresh… After a clean and light sand in some areas I tried 1 coat and this came out perfect. Odor was not noticeable after a day and a half outside to dry.” – Amazon user

“I purchased a teak shower bench from Aqua Teak and before assembling it I treated all of the wood pieces with their teak oil. It may not have been necessary to do this but I’m glad I did as the teak oil smells wonderful.” – Amazon user

Bayes High Performance Teak Cleaner & Restorer

Pros

• Deeply penetrates and protects wood from drying, cracking, staining
• Restores old, neglected teak to beautiful condition
• Oil-based formula cleans, shines and protects
• Enriched with lemon and essential oils
• Eco-friendly, recyclable non-aerosol bottle

Cons

• Some users reported unpleasant scent when used indoors
• May require multiple applications for extremely weathered wood

User Reviews

“I have a ten year old teak shower seat that was faded and off color. However, this stuff performed an outright miracle…It looks like it did when I purchased it!” – Amazon user

“I felt that it did a good job restoring and beautifying an old but expensive decorative bowl with elaborate carving that I could not routinely clean.” – Amazon user

STAR BRITE Marine Grade Teak Oil

Pros

• Superior UV and weather protection
• Deep penetrating formula preserves wood grain
• Easy application and fast drying
• Long-lasting protection
• Versatile for boats, furniture, trim and more

Cons

• Some felt it had a strong initial odor
• Requires occasional reapplication

User Reviews

“I had previously used Watco teak oil which remained sticky and tended to leave semi dried droplets. This product had a better color, absorbed readily and was dry to the touch.” – Amazon user

“We have raised wooden garden beds, and this oil does the trick for protecting them from rot and whatnot, and also keeps them beautiful. Smells real nice too. Easy to apply.” – Amazon user

Loveable Teak Oil

Pros

• Large 24 oz spray bottle for easy application
• Value size lasts longer than competitors
• Plant-based formula with natural linseed oil
• Deep penetrating to nourish hardwoods
• Protects against water and stains
• Rejuvenates and restores finish

Cons

• Spray nozzle can be faulty for some bottles
• Requires a drying period between coats

User Reviews

“I despised oiling our slatted table and benches but knew I had to keep it up given the sun. This is a lifesaver. I spray and wipe. The table looks fabulous.”

“Living in the Pacific NW…I keep my teak table and chairs out under an awning but still lot of exposure. I use this product for years because, it brings my outside furniture new life in the spring.”

STAR BRITE Premium Teak Care Kit

Pros

• Complete 3-step system to clean, brighten and protect
• Marine-grade formula ideal for boats
• Versatile for outdoor furniture and wood
• Simple process for professional results
• High-tech, effective ingredients

Cons

• Multiple steps can be time-consuming
• Some felt Step 2 brightener had strong odor

User Reviews

“We had a couple of sets of Adirondack chairs and footstools that were in terrible shape…I used the recommended stainless steel pad to scrub everything off. I waited a few minutes after spraying and I could not believe all the gunk that was coming off.”

“It is a 3-step process, which does take a little time, but it was worth it in the end. My old weathered grey chairs now look almost new.”

Furniture Clinic Teak Care Kit

Pros

• Complete 3-step system to clean, brighten and protect
• Step-by-step instructions for easy use
• Contains all necessary products in one kit
• Restores color and protects wood

Cons

• Some felt price was high initially
• Multi-step process can be time-consuming

User Reviews

“I was quite pessimistic that anything would work on our 15 year old garden furniture (that has never been cleaned or treated) but I’m so happy with the results.”

“This kit worked really well. The cleaner and brightener is very effective. I’m glad I went with the full kit that includes a bucket, brush and cloths etc.”

Factors to Consider When Choosing Teak Oil

Ingredients

The ingredients in teak oil can vary from product to product. Some are formulated with natural oils like linseed or tung oil, while others contain synthetic polymers or UV-resistant additives. It’s important to consider the ingredients and their potential effects on the environment and your health.

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Finish

Teak oils can provide different finishes, ranging from a natural matte look to a glossy shine. Consider the desired aesthetic for your shower bench and choose an oil that aligns with your preferences.

Ease of Application

Some teak oils are thicker and require more effort to apply, while others are formulated for ease of application. Look for products that are easy to spread and don’t leave behind sticky residues.

Durability

The longevity of the teak oil’s protection can vary greatly between products. Consider investing in a high-quality oil that offers long-lasting protection, reducing the need for frequent reapplication.

Odor

Teak oils can have a strong, lingering odor, which may be unpleasant in an enclosed space like a bathroom. Look for low-odor or odorless options if you’re sensitive to strong scents.

How to Apply Teak Oil

Surface Preparation

Proper surface preparation is crucial for optimal results when applying teak oil. Start by cleaning the wood surface thoroughly with a teak cleaner or mild soap and water solution. Remove any dirt, grime, or mildew buildup. For extremely weathered wood, you may need to use a teak brightener or oxalic acid solution to restore the natural color.

Once the surface is clean, ensure it is completely dry before applying the teak oil. Any moisture trapped beneath the oil can lead to discoloration or mold growth.

Application Methods

There are several methods for applying teak oil, depending on the product and personal preference:

Cloth or Rag Application: Soak a clean, lint-free cloth or rag in the teak oil and wipe it onto the wood surface in the direction of the grain. This method allows for excellent control and even coverage.

Brush Application: Using a natural-bristle brush, apply the teak oil in long, even strokes following the grain of the wood. This method works well for larger surfaces and can help the oil penetrate deeply.

Spray Application: Some teak oil products come in spray bottles, making application a breeze, especially for intricate or hard-to-reach areas. Spray the oil evenly onto the surface and then wipe or brush it into the wood.

Regardless of the application method, ensure that the oil is applied evenly and without any puddles or drips.

Drying Time

After applying the teak oil, it’s important to allow sufficient drying time for the oil to penetrate and cure properly. Most teak oils require a drying time of 4-6 hours or longer, depending on the product and environmental conditions.

During the drying process, the wood may appear slightly darker or wet, but this is normal. Once the oil has fully cured, the wood should regain its natural color and appearance.

Maintenance and Reapplication

To maintain the protection and beauty of your teak shower bench, regular maintenance and reapplication of the teak oil is necessary. The frequency of reapplication will depend on several factors, such as exposure to water, humidity, and sunlight, as well as the specific product used.

Most manufacturers recommend reapplying teak oil every 6 to 12 months, or as needed when the wood starts to appear dull or dry. In high-moisture environments like bathrooms, more frequent reapplication may be necessary.

Before reapplying teak oil, it’s essential to clean the surface thoroughly to remove any dirt, grime, or previous oil residue. This will ensure that the new coat of oil can penetrate the wood effectively.

FAQs

 How often should I apply teak oil to my shower bench? 

The frequency of reapplication depends on factors such as exposure to water and humidity, but most manufacturers recommend applying teak oil every 6 to 12 months, or as needed when the wood starts to appear dull or dry.

Can I use teak oil on other types of wood? 

While teak oil is specifically formulated for teak wood, many products can also be used on other hardwoods, such as acacia, mahogany, and cedar. However, it’s best to check the manufacturer’s recommendations for use on specific wood types.

Is teak oil safe for indoor use? 

Yes, most teak oils are safe for indoor use, but it’s essential to ensure proper ventilation during application and drying. Some products may have strong odors, so odorless or low-odor options may be preferable for indoor use.

How long does teak oil last? 

The longevity of teak oil can vary depending on the specific product, environmental conditions, and the level of exposure to water and sunlight. Generally, a high-quality teak oil can last between 6 to 12 months before requiring reapplication.

Can I apply teak oil over existing finishes? 

It’s generally not recommended to apply teak oil over existing finishes, such as varnishes or lacquers. Teak oil is designed to penetrate into the wood fibers, and applying it over a surface coating may cause adhesion problems or discoloration. For best results, remove any existing finishes before applying teak oil.

Conclusion

Investing in a high-quality teak oil is essential for maintaining the beauty and longevity of your teak shower bench. With a wide range of options available, consider factors such as ingredients, finish, ease of application, durability, and odor to find the best teak oil for your needs.

Proper application and regular maintenance will not only protect your shower bench from water damage and weathering but will also enhance the natural beauty of the wood grain, ensuring your investment remains a stunning addition to your bathroom for years to come.