Cleaning Your Teak Deck with Dulon | Cleaning and Restoring Colour

The teak deck of your boat is a true eye-catcher, but unfortunately, it can quickly turn grey and get dirty due to rain, sun, and algae. This not only looks less attractive but can also make the surface slippery and dirty. Do you want to clean your teak deck and keep it in top condition? In this article, you’ll learn how to clean teak wood, restore its colour, and protect it long-term with Dulon products. 

Why does teak wood discolour?

Teak is a tropical hardwood known for its natural beauty. When new, it has a warm, brownish-yellow colour. However, exposure to rain, sun, and dirt causes teak to discolour quickly. In the Netherlands, with its humid climate, this happens even faster. A light grey tint is normal and harmless, but green deposits and black spots from algae and fungi require action. Regular maintenance prevents stubborn dirt and extends the life of your teak deck. With the right products, you not only keep the wood clean but also protect it from further discolouration.

How do I clean my teak deck?

For a thorough cleaning of a teak deck, use the Dulon Teak Care System. It consists of three products specially developed for cleaning, restoring, and protecting teak:

• Dulon 41 - Teak Degreaser
  Removes stubborn dirt such as grease, oils and sunscreen residues.
  
  
• Dulon 42 - Clean & Brightener
  Removes lime, algae, and green deposits while restoring the wood's natural colour.
  
  
• Dulon 43 - Impregnating agent & UV blocker
  Protects against UV rays, dirt and graying, and provides a water repellent layer.

Important: never use harsh cleaning agents or a high-pressure washer, as this can damage teak. Always use a soft brush and mild products like Dulon.

Guide: cleaning a teak deck

Follow the steps below to clean your teak deck, restore its original colour, and protect the wood.

Preparation: ensure the deck is free of large debris. Carefully sweep away sand and other dirt with a soft broom. Remove lines and any objects that might be in the way.

Step 1. Degreasing

Supplies:

• Dulon 41 - Teak Degreaser
• Soft brush + telescopic handle
• Bucket
• Clean water

The first step is degreasing the deck with Dulon 41. Apply the product undiluted or diluted (1:1) onto the wood. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, but prevent it from drying. Scrub with a soft brush or fine scrub pad along the wood grain, then rinse thoroughly with clean water.

Step 2. Cleaning and restoring colour

Supplies:

• Dulon 42 - Clean & Brightener
• Soft brush + telescopic handle
• Bucket
• Clean water

Next, remove gray discolouration and green deposits with Dulon 42 Clean & Brightener. Apply the product undiluted or diluted (1:1) on the surface. The more Dulon 42 you use, the lighter and more even the colour of your teak deck will be. Let it sit for about 5 minutes without letting it dry. Ensure you treat the entire deck to avoid uneven colouring. Scrub along the wood grain with a soft brush and rinse thoroughly with clean water.

Step 3. Protecting against dirt and UV light

Supplies:

• Dulon 43 - Impregnating agent & UV blocker
• Paint tray
• Brush or roller

The final step is protecting the teak wood from dirt and UV exposure. Grey discolouration is caused by UV exposure. With Dulon 43 Teak Protector, you effectively protect the deck and maintain its natural colour longer. The product also creates a water-repellent layer, so that water droplets stay on the surface instead of soaking into the wood.

Shake the container well before use and make sure the surface is clean and grease-free. Apply Dulon 43 undiluted, evenly, and sparingly with a flat brush or roller. Avoid puddles or drips; excess liquid can be removed easily with a cloth or paper. Let the protector dry for 20–30 minutes. After at least 24 hours, the product is fully impregnated and activated. During this period, avoid exposing the surface to oil or water.

Buying teak cleaner

All products mentioned in this article are easy to order from Polyestershoppen. As an official distributor of Dulon and Deckmate, we offer the full range. Want to get started right away? Order Dulon products easily online and enjoy a sparkling teak deck quickly! All products are in stock, so if you order before 5:30 PM CET, we will ship your order the same day.

More information about cleaning a teak deck

With this step-by-step guide, your teak deck is ready for the boating season! If you have questions about teak maintenance or other boat maintenance tasks, feel free to contact our specialists. We are happy to provide professional and personalized advice.