Outdoor collection

Ethnicraft’s Outdoor collection is designed to adapt well to a range of environmental conditions. The high density of teak wood means it is an excellent choice for outdoor use. As the furniture adapts to its environment, it is normal for some cracking and movement to occur.

Our natural teak range comes without any finish or protective treatment. Over time, untreated furniture will grey with prolonged sun and rain exposure. This colour change is completely natural and purely superficial – it does not impact the strength or quality of the timber.

Our black teak range is brushed and varnished with the colour taint applied. This finish has been specifically developed to withstand natural elements such as severe high and low temperatures and UV light, as well as moisture and humidity.

Our aluminium is powder coated offering a great lightweight, low maintenance, resistant and durable furniture option for the outdoors.

Preventative treatment

While no additional treatment is required on any Ethnicraft Outdoor teak product, you can choose to apply a specialised teak cleaning product such as Ethnicraft Outdoor Teak Cleaner to remove any dirt buildup from items.

To protect against stains and green deposits, and slow the grey patina process of natural teak, you can use a teak protector such as the Ethnicraft Outdoor Teak Protector. Ensure the teak is completely dry with any dust removed before applying and follow the directions on the label. Allow 24 hours of dry time before exposing the item to moisture.

Regular care

Teak is rich in natural oils, so rain showers can cause these oils to be released and leave marks on new teak furniture. Prior to first use, it is recommended to rinse the Outdoor furniture thoroughly with a garden hose before first use. Do not use a pressure washer, and make sure garden chairs are not placed under the garden table while rinsing.

Use placemats to prevent marks on the furniture. Any spills should be removed immediately with a damp cloth and natural soap. Do not use soap containing detergent or other chemicals.

For regular wiping, use a dry cloth or soft brush for dusting off crumbs and leaves — do not rub. Wipe in the direction of the grain.

To remove stubborn stains or superficial scratches to teak surfaces, extra fine sandpaper can be gently used on natural teak surfaces. Always sand in the direction of the wood grain. 

Ensure solutions used to clean paving, patios or terraces do not come into contact with the furniture. Some wood species contain tannin, which causes the wood to react with metal and leave permanent stains. Avoid close exposure to heating sources. 

All teak items are equipped with glides to prevent scratches on ground surfaces, as well as water absorption from the ground. 

Important! To prevent warping, before using a sofa with 5 or 6 legs, always adapt the adjustable glides of the middle legs to the ground surface. For stability, middle legs need to be slightly shorter.

Aluminium frames

Lightweight and powder coated specific for the high UV of outdoor environments, aluminium is a great, low-maintenance material.

For outdoor aluminium surfaces, we recommend: 

  • Dusting regularly using a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using cloths containing dye as the colour may transfer. 
  • For thorough cleaning, use natural soap and warm water. Rinse with clean water and wipe dry to avoid streaks or traces of limescale. Avoid letting water rest in retention areas such as joints. 
  • Wiping away bird droppings to avoid the risk of corrosion or marks due to the high acidity.  
  • Not using steel wool, harsh brushes, pressure washers, mineral acid, bleach or chlorine cleaners on aluminium surfaces. 
  • Not dragging furniture along surfaces, as this may cause damage or leave permanent marks on the terrace. All outdoor items are fitted with protective glides; always lift the furniture when moving from place to place. 

Rain covers

To keep Ethnicraft Outdoor furniture in optimal condition, fit a rain cover during seasons where it is not in use or during periods of bad weather. Custom-made to fit your Ethnicraft outdoor furniture, the rain covers are UV protective and provide excellent protection against water, wind and frost. Metal eyelets are specifically designed for fastening against high winds.

Ensure the furniture is thoroughly clean and dry before applying the cover protection. For long periods of time, it is recommend that, if possible, any soft furnishings, cushions, etc., should be removed and stored indoors. Ensure any dirt or leaves have been dusted off surfaces to reduce the chance of mould growth.

Remove the cover regularly in order to let the furniture and upholstery breath, as any residue can cause mould. For tabletop covers, we advise to place a tennis ball or similar object between the cover and the table surface for ventilation.

Rain covers are machine washable up to 30 °C/86 °F and fold down easily for storing. Air dry only, ensure cover is completely dry before storing. For ongoing care, clean any debris off the cover regularly with a cloth, brush or hose.

Outdoor upholstery & fabrics

Ethnicraft outdoor fabrics are all-weather, UV resistant, hypoallergenic and maintenance-friendly:

Clean with clear water and a natural soap. Ethnicraft carries Indoor-Outdoor Textile Cleaner and Protector products specifically formulated for our range of upholsteries and textiles, including those in our Outdoor collection.

The naturally occurring surface oil in teak can cause stains on cushions. Note that it is a recurring process that cannot be prevented. To clean, use a damp white cloth, natural soap and clear water.

Covers are machine washable up to 30 °C/86 °F. Do not use any chemical products not designed for polyester. Always follow the directions on the attached washing label.

All sit cushions are equipped with an anti-slip fabric on the bottom to ensure cushions remain in the correct position.

Cushion inners

All cushions are inserted with a long-lasting, all-weather quick-dry foam. This dries quickly after exposure to moisture and humidity, which can penetrate even a water-repellent outer shell over time.

Recommended products

General care & maintenance tips

  1. Recommended humidity in the room: between 40% and 60%.
  2. To prevent colour differences, do not place furniture or accessories in direct sunlight, and move objects placed on the furniture from time to time. Open your extendable table the first three weeks after installing and afterwards on a regular basis.
  3. Avoid exposure to extreme conditions: Do not place furniture or accessories near heating sources or air-conditioned spaces.
  4. To prevent staining, remove any spills immediately.
  5. When cleaning the surface, always work in the direction of the wood grain.
  6. Use place mats and/or coasters to prevent hot pots and pans, or cold glasses and bottles, from leaving marks on the furniture.
  7. Do not drag the furniture along the floor; always lift the furniture when moving.
  8. Always ensure water solutions used to clean the floor do not come into contact with the furniture’s base, as it may leave permanent marks. For items that feature rubber glides, avoid using alcohol-based cleaners on floors they are in direct contact with. 
  9. Indoor products are not intended for outdoor use. An outdoor product will always indicate so in its name.
  10. Last but not least, we always recommend carefully reading the care instructions specific to your item.

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