If you have been woodworking for a while, you may have had some experience working with teak oil on your finished project’s surfaces. Teak oil shields against UV rays and water damage, so many woodworkers use it as a protective finish.
However, you may eventually find yourself wanting to remove dried teak oil from your wooden products for one reason or another. A commonly searched question is how can I remove dried Teak Oil from wood surfaces? The question likely comes up because teak oil can leave a relatively soft, slightly tacky surface. This means that dirt and grime can sometimes collect on the wood.
If this is a concern of yours, then you will be happy to know that you can remove teak oil from your wood products. When removing teak oil from wood, it is best to use a scraper and light applications of the finish stripper.
What is Teak Oil?
Teak oil isn’t an oil from a single source but a solution composed of several ingredients. While the list of ingredients varies between each manufacturer, most teak oils consist of mineral, linseed, or tung oil, mixed in with a few other components.
However, regardless of its ingredients, teak oil tends to have the same effects and be used for the same purpose. It is mainly used as a finish on wood for both indoor and outdoor pieces. This is primarily due to its protection against UV rays, rain, and saltwater.
What Will Remove Teak Oil?
Mineral spirits Are the most efficient substance that can be used to remove teak oil, and this product can be found at just about any hardware store. However, any other substance that causes the teak oil to thin or soften will suffice if you don’t have mineral spirits handy. The goal is to ensure that you can remove the dried oil without damaging the wood that is beneath it.
How to Get Teak Oil Off Wood?
The most efficient way to get teak oil off wood is by using a clean rag with mineral spirits on it and wiping the teak oil off the wood. Because the spirits cause the oil to thin, the rag will clean it up and off the wood.
Another way to remove teak oil is by using some sort of wood finish stripper. Similar to mineral spirits, this will allow the dried oil to be extracted much more effortlessly. Once the stripper has had time to rest, use a paint scraper or any other thin tool to scrape off the dried oil. Once all the oil has been scraped off, make sure to let the wood rest, as it will be damp from applying the stripper onto it.
Is Teak Oil the Same as Danish Oil?
These two oils are similar in several ways; they also have distinct differences. The most notable difference is that teak oil dries to a matte finish, while Danish oil dries to a gloss or satin finish.
Like teak oil, Danish oil is also not from a singular source but is instead created by combining different components. The properties of both oils may vary based on the company that manufactures them.
What Does Teak Oil Smell Like?
The smell of teak oil can vary by brand or manufacturer, however, it is best described as being floral or even like an orange. This is a bit different than the smell of a lot of other wood finishing products!
There are times when teak oil can leave behind a strong and unpleasant odor, however. The scent of teak oil is defined by the ingredients used to create it, and some manufacturers may use ingredients with less pleasant smells. Even so, the odor’s intensity is generally lower than that of its other counterparts, such as tung or Danish oil.
How Long Does Teak Oil Smell?
The average time needed for the smell to completely go away is around three to four days, but it can sometimes take upwards of a week or two if you have a very strong smelling brand of oil.
Other factors and circumstances can lead to a lingering odor as well. If you keep the wood in a confined area with little to no ventilation, it will take a considerable time for the smell to dissipate. Regardless, the smell will eventually go away as long as you are patient and give it the time it needs to air out.
How to Get Rid of the Teak Oil Smell?
There are many ways you can get rid of the smell of teak oil, though the best and most efficient method is by simply airing it out. Leaving the wood piece in a well-ventilated and open area for at least three to four days, should get rid of most, if not all, of the smell. Another method is to apply an odorless thinner over the teak oil. While this may not completely eliminate the odor, it will help speed up the scent being aired out.
