How to treat a wooden garden table

To protect your wooden garden table effectively and maintain its condition, there are several solutions available. HG offers products such as colour restorers and weathered wood restorers to help maintain the natural colour and appearance of the table. These provide protection against sunlight, moisture and other weather influences. You may also see household methods mentioned, such as treating wood with a mixture of linseed oil and turpentine or using cold‑pressed linseed oil. Regular maintenance, including cleaning and re‑treating, is essential to prevent damage from extreme weather, insects and physical wear.

HG solutions for protecting a wooden garden table

To protect your wooden garden table effectively, HG offers the following solutions:

• HG hardwood colour restorer: This product restores the natural colour and appearance of hardwood furniture. It nourishes the wood deeply and provides protection against UV exposure and drying out.
• HG weathered wood restorer: If the table has become greyed or dull, this product restores the original finish in a single treatment.

For regular cleaning and removal of atmospheric deposits, HG all plastic cleaner can also be used. This cleaner removes build-up without damaging the material.

For further advice, refer to our guidance on cleaning wooden garden furniture.

Solutions for treating and protecting your wooden garden table

Household methods are often suggested, although they do not always deliver reliable results:

• Treat with a 50/50 mixture of linseed oil and turpentine to nourish the wood and provide temporary protection. Apply with a cloth and allow to dry for approximately 24 hours.
• Clean using equal parts white vinegar and water to remove surface mould, then rinse thoroughly and allow to dry completely.
• Apply cold‑pressed linseed oil to nourish the wood and improve water resistance. Repeat every 3–4 months if required.

Whilst these methods may help, they are not always suitable for all wood types and may not provide long-term protection. For optimal results and long-term preservation of your wooden garden table, professional products are recommended over household remedies.

Causes of damage to wooden garden tables

A wooden garden table can be affected by several damaging factors:

• Weather exposure: Rain, frost and sunlight can cause warping, cracking and discolouration
• Moisture penetration: Leads to swelling, mould and rot
• Insect activity: Wood‑boring insects can weaken the structure
• Physical damage: Heavy objects or impacts can cause scratches and dents
• Lack of maintenance: Accelerates deterioration

To prevent damage, clean, dry and treat the wood regularly, and protect it from harsh conditions where possible. This includes applying suitable protective layers such as wood stain, varnish or oil. Where feasible, position the table in a sheltered location and use protective covers or coasters to minimise scratches and stains. By following these preventive measures consistently, you can ensure your wooden garden table remains both beautiful and functional for many years to come.