FAQs | RK Garden Furniture – Teak & Rattan Answers
Find quick answers about our teak and rattan furniture, from care to delivery and buying tips. Still need help? Contact our team anytime.
Can Cushions be left outside?
Our cushions are made from a water-resistant, quick-drying fabric, but we don’t recommend leaving them outdoors permanently like our metal furniture.
For the best care, store them indoors in a breathable outdoor cushion bag when not in use. This will keep them fresher for longer and protect them from unnecessary wear.
That said, if they’re left out during summer and get caught in a sudden downpour (which we all know is likely in the UK!), don’t worry—they’ll dry quickly and be absolutely fine.
When is the Best Time to Buy Garden Furniture?
If you’re looking to get the most value for your money, timing your garden furniture purchase can make a big difference. Why pay full price when the right season could save you up to half the cost?
Quality garden furniture instantly transforms your outdoor space. From hosting al fresco dinners to soaking up the sun or enjoying a quiet morning coffee, the right pieces can turn your garden into a true extension of your home.
As a general rule, the best time to buy outdoor furniture could be between January and March. Shopping before the spring season starts gives you the widest choice, as stock levels are at their highest.
By buying out of season, you’re guaranteed to get the pieces you want before someone else does.
What Are the Best Materials for Garden Furniture?
Rattan Garden Furniture
Rattan is a timeless choice for outdoor living, offering classic style with modern durability. Crafted from weather-resistant synthetic resin weave over strong aluminium frames, it’s lightweight, low-maintenance, and built to last—perfect for a stylish, long-lasting garden setup.
Wooden Garden Furniture
Wood is a natural fit for the outdoors, offering strength, durability, and timeless appeal. Its unique grains and markings give every piece a one-of-a-kind character that synthetic materials can’t replicate.
For those seeking long-lasting quality, teak is the top choice—renowned for its resilience, weather resistance, and beautiful ageing process that only adds charm over time.
Aluminium Garden Furniture
Aluminium garden furniture is durable, rust-resistant, and sustainable, with a sleek modern look. Lightweight and low-maintenance, it’s ideal for contemporary outdoor spaces—just be mindful of temperature changes on hot or cold days.
Best Garden Furniture To Leave Outside In The UK?
Wooden Garden Furniture
Wood is a timeless choice for outdoor living, with durability that depends on the type of wood. Teak is prized for its natural oils that make it strong and long-lasting, while acacia offers excellent water resistance. Over time, wood develops a soft silver-grey patina and small natural cracks, adding unique character.
Pros: Durable and sturdy, Can be refinished or stained, Timeless, natural look
Cons: Needs regular sealing or oiling, Can warp or rot if neglected, Heavy to move
Care Tips: Clean and treat teak with a teak cleaner and protector kit, then apply a hardwood shield to guard against stains. Store or cover furniture during harsh weather, but use a breathable cover to prevent trapped moisture.
Rattan Garden Furniture
Rattan is a classic choice, loved for its durability, weather resistance, and timeless style. Modern synthetic rattan is specially designed to resist moisture, stains, and the elements, making it both practical and long-lasting.
Pros: Lightweight, Weather-resistant, Low maintenance
Cons: Needs regular cleaning. Woven texture can trap dirt
Care Tips: Clean with mild soap and water, and store or cover during harsh winter weather to extend its lifespan.
Aluminium Garden Furniture
Aluminium is one of the most durable options for outdoor furniture—lightweight, rust-proof, strong, and easy to clean, with a sleek modern look. The main drawbacks are that it can heat up in direct sunlight and needs regular cleaning.
For care, simply wipe down with mild soapy water and, if possible, store during extreme weather. A breathable cover can be used in winter, but avoid covering all year round to prevent trapped moisture.
Can You Put Garden Furniture on Grass?
While placing furniture directly on your lush lawn might feel tempting, is grass really the best spot? Whether you’re setting up a lounge set, dining table, or recliner, it’s worth considering the pros and cons before deciding where to position your garden furniture.
Placing outdoor furniture directly on your lawn may seem convenient, but it can cause several problems for your furniture, your grass, and even the people using it.
1. Damage to the furniture
Grass holds a lot of moisture from rain and dew, which can lead to damp stains, mould, rot, splitting, or rust—especially on wooden furniture. Metal pieces may also corrode over time, though aluminium is rust-proof. Mud stains are another risk if the furniture sinks into the lawn.
2. Damage to the grass
Furniture legs can sink into the soil, creating unsightly holes and muddy patches. Larger pieces may flatten or discolour the lawn by blocking sunlight and airflow, leaving behind dead, straw-coloured patches that are difficult to restore.
3. Damage to the user
Uneven grass creates an unstable seating area, leading to wobbly chairs and tables. This not only feels uncomfortable but can also pose a risk of tipping over—especially for children or anyone with reduced mobility.
How to Oil Outdoor Furniture?
1. Clean the furniture
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Start by brushing away any dirt, dust, or cobwebs.
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Wash with warm, soapy water or a teak cleaner to remove grime.
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Rinse thoroughly and let the furniture dry completely before applying oil (at least 24 hours).
2. Sand the surface (optional)
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For older or weathered teak, lightly sand with fine-grit sandpaper to smooth the surface and open the grain for better oil absorption.
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Wipe away dust with a damp cloth and allow to dry.
3. Apply teak oil
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Use a soft cloth, sponge, or brush to apply a thin, even coat of high-quality teak oil.
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Work in the direction of the grain, avoiding drips or pooling.
4. Let it soak in
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Allow the oil to penetrate for 15–30 minutes.
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Wipe away any excess with a clean, dry cloth to prevent sticky patches.
5. Repeat as needed
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Apply 2–3 coats for the best protection, allowing drying time between each coat.
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For ongoing care, oil your teak every 6–12 months, depending on weather exposure.
Pro Tip: Avoid oiling teak that’s already developed the natural grey patina unless you sand it back first—otherwise, the finish may look patchy.
How To Paint Garden Furniture?
How to Paint Teak Garden Furniture
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Clean – Wash with soapy water or teak cleaner, rinse, and let dry fully.
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Sand – Lightly sand with medium-grit paper to remove oils and help paint stick.
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Prime – Apply an oil- or shellac-based primer designed for hardwoods.
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Paint – Use outdoor wood paint, applying 2–3 thin coats. Lightly sand between coats for a smooth finish.
Tip: Always work on dry wood. Proper prep is key—paint won’t stick to oily or damp teak.
What Is Rattan Garden Furniture?
Rattan garden furniture refers to tables, chairs, and loungers crafted from rattan, a climbing palm native to tropical regions of Asia, Africa, and Australasia. Traditionally woven using the wicker method, rattan is lightweight, flexible, and durable, making it perfect for outdoor use. Naturally resistant to rain, humidity, and UV rays, it has long been a popular choice for stylish and long-lasting garden furniture.
What Is Rattan Garden Furniture Made Of?
Today, garden furniture comes in two main types:
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Natural Rattan – Made from rattan palms woven into strong, weather-resistant furniture.
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Synthetic Rattan (Resin/PE Rattan) – Crafted from specially designed resin to mimic the look of real rattan. It’s affordable, low-maintenance, and UV-resistant, making it ideal for UK gardens.
Both options offer durability and style, but synthetic rattan tends to be more practical for year-round outdoor living.