Get It Done: How to treat your garden furniture with oil

Wood accentuates the natural beauty that can be found in our gardens. But just like everything else in nature, the wood of garden furniture is alive, and requires a little love and attention to stay looking beautiful over time. 

Treating your garden furniture with oil is an easy way to refresh your outdoor space, whilst also protecting the wood from any future weather damage. A pure, natural oil will deeply penetrate the wood, enhancing its natural grains and character, whilst offering a protective barrier. 

The job is quick and easy to carry out, so rest assured that in just a few simple steps, you’ll have refreshed your garden furniture that’s ready for a summer of entertaining friends and family. 

What you need: 

●  A bottle of cleaner/degreaser 

●  Gloves

●  A scrubber brush or scouring pad

●  A large bucket 

●  A dust sheet 

●  A paint brush 

●  A paint stirrer 

●  A paint can opener 

●  A can of Sikkens Cetol Premium Oil or Sadolin Hardwood Furniture Oil 

Step 1: Clean the wood 

First, it’s important to clean the wood properly so that the oil penetrates the surface evenly when applied. Remove any dirt, algae or fungi from the surface with Sikkens Cetol BL Deck and Wood Cleaner using a scrubber brush or scouring pad. Rinse it off with a cloth and leave it to air dry completely. If you start painting before the wood is dry, your oil won’t penetrate and adhere to the wood to properly protect it. 

Step 2: Get ready to apply 

For a long-lasting protection we recommend Sikkens Cetol Premium Oil as it penetrates deeply into the wood enhancing its natural character, whilst providing protection against weather conditions. Sikkens Cetol Premium Oil comes in colours Natural (078) and Merbau (037).  If you prefer a colourless finish, then Sadolin Hardwood Furniture is a perfect option as it comes in clear.  If your furniture is exposed to the elements, pigmented finishes tend to last longer than clears.

Open the can of oil with a metallic opener and give it a good stir. Stirring properly will give you a consistent color throughout the application, even as you reach the end of the can. 

Step 3: Apply the first coat

Apply your first layer of oil using a brush. Only dip the tip of your brush into the oil, not all of the bristles, so that you get a nice even layer. Be sure to apply the oil from left to right in the direction of the wood grain for an even finish. Pay attention to any nooks and crannies.

Leave the first layer to dry for 12 to 24 hours.

4. Apply the second coat and an optional third coat

It’s best to apply two or three thin layers of oil rather than one thick, gloopy layer. That’s because slathering on too much oil can lead to the product drying with a clumpy and uneven look. Once you’ve checked that the first coat is fully dry, this could be 12 to 24 hours depending on the weather conditions, apply a second coat. Under the Australian sun, a third coat (applied in the same manner as the second one) is recommended for added durability.

Then sit back and enjoy your handiwork! 

The results

Your garden furniture will look nourished, and the natural beauty of wood will be enhanced. It’s also protected against the elements, so you can rest assured that it will stay looking beautiful for longer. Now, all that’s left to do is sit down, pour yourself a cuppa and enjoy the natural beauty of your garden.

Want more help with oiling or staining your garden furniture? Check out our Pick A Product guide to understand what products you need or head to your local store for a colour card or sample pot.