January 4, 2024

Do Teak Shower Seats Need to be Oiled?

No, oiling teak shower seats is not technically necessary for their functionality; however, it offers several benefits and should be considered depending on your preferences and the condition of your teak shower seat.

Why can oiling teak shower seats be beneficial?

• Maintain color: Teak naturally weathers to a silvery-gray patina over time. Oiling can help preserve its golden-brown hue, especially if you prefer the original color.
• Enhance water resistance: Oiling helps fill the wood’s pores, making it more resistant to water and soap scum penetration. This can make cleaning easier and reduce the risk of water damage.
• Prevent dryness and cracking: Over time, teak can dry out and become brittle. Oiling helps moisturize the wood, preventing cracks and maintaining its smooth, comfortable surface.
• Increase longevity: Proper care, including occasional oiling, can extend the lifespan of your teak shower seat.

How do you decide whether or not to oil a teak shower seat?

• What is the current condition of your teak shower seat? If your seat is already weathered to a silvery-gray, oiling likely won’t bring back the original color completely. You might prefer to embrace the natural patina for its rustic charm.
• What is the desired finish you are hoping to achieve? If you prefer a more natural look, skip the oil and let the teak weather naturally. If you want to maintain the golden hue, oiling is recommended.
• How committed are you to its maintenance? Applying teak oil requires some effort and should be done occasionally (once or twice a year). If you’re not keen on regular maintenance, it might be better to skip it.

What are the alternatives to oiling a teak shower seat?

• Regular cleaning: Even without oiling, regular cleaning with water and mild soap helps prevent dirt and soap scum buildup and maintains the teak shower seat’s functionality.
• Accept the natural patina: Embrace the silvery-gray color as a testament to the teak wood’s resilience and natural beauty. It’s perfectly normal and doesn’t affect the shower seat’s performance or safety.

Overall, oiling teak shower seats is a personal choice depending on your desired aesthetics and maintenance preferences. While it’s not essential for functionality, it can offer benefits like preserving color, enhancing water resistance, and preventing dryness. Consider your priorities and the condition of your teak shower seat before deciding whether or not to oil it.

Take a look at all of our ADA-compliant teak shower seats for use in both residential and commercial bathrooms here: Teak Shower Seats

If you have any additional questions about teak shower seats, give us a call at 704-800-4629, live chat with us on ShowerSeats.com or email us at [email protected] and we’ll be happy to help you out.