Maintenance

Care + Maintenance

Sutherland products are designed and built for a lifetime of beauty, which means our furniture finishes and upholstery are easily maintained with occasional attention.

  • Natural Teak

    For outdoor use, spray your natural teak furniture with a garden hose often. Give teak furniture a thorough cleaning twice a year to remove surface dirt, slight discoloration and environmental buildup. Begin by wetting the surface of the teak and use a soft brush with a solution of mild cleanser and water to scrub the surface. Rinse well and let dry in the sun.

  • Weathered Teak

    Over time and with the influence of water and sun, teak furniture will turn from its original honey brown color to a rich, silver weathered patina. With the Sutherland weathered option, this silver patina can be enjoyed from the start. Stains, small marks or surface imperfections can be removed from weathered teak by lightly sanding it with fine sandpaper. Because the weathering only takes place on the surface, sanded areas will require a little time to return to a silver patina.

  • Clear Sealer

    Teak finished with a sealer should be covered in extreme weather. Sutherland’s clear sealer helps to maintain the teak’s original color. For regular maintenance, simply rinse with water and wipe with a soft cloth. The sun’s UV rays can cause deterioration to outdoor finishes in as little as six months. Depending on exposure to sun, rain, temperature and humidity, the surface will eventually require periodic sanding and reapplication of the sealer. When it is time to reapply the sealer, please contact Sutherland Customer Service to purchase additional sealer and receive reapplication instructions based on the condition of your furniture.

  • High-Gloss Yacht Finish

    In tradition with the world’s great shipbuilders, the Sutherland yacht finish reveals the beauty of teak’s original color and grain like no other. Up to 12 coats of high-gloss finish are hand-applied. The furniture is carefully sanded between each coat and the results are simply breathtaking. This finish should be cleaned periodically with soap and water and a soft cloth.

  • Teak Oil Stains

    Because teak does not absorb water and is rich in natural oils and silicates, the weathering process includes oil surfacing. This teak oil can stain cushions. Fabric stained by teak oil can be cleaned with soap and water or a special eucalyptus-based cleaner available through Sutherland. Please be aware oil surfacing is a naturally repeating process that cannot be prevented. New or very young teak will experience natural oil surfacing that appears like a “watermark” or irregular pattern of discoloration. These areas are a part of the natural maturing process and can be removed with gentle washing.

  • Teak For Indoors

    The only maintenance required for indoor teak furniture is dusting with a soft cloth. Do not use silicate-based cleaners. Please be aware that with normal use, the overall appearance of unfinished teak will darken over time. Also, in areas where skin contacts unfinished teak, natural oils from the skin will darken the wood.

  • Powder Coated Components

    Powder coat covers the metal components used in conjunction with various Sutherland collections. This metal finish should be washed with water, soap and a soft cloth. These metal parts have holes in the bottom of the rails, so do not submerse these pieces in water. Powder coated furniture should not be dragged. Dragging will scratch the coating off the edges of the furniture piece, causing it to peel, bubble or flake off over time.

  • Aluminum Components

    Unprotected polished aluminum will oxidize over time. We have added a clear coat finish to polished aluminum components to ward off the oxidation process. We recommend cleaning polished aluminum components with water, soap and a fine cloth. Do not use an abrasive cleaner or abrasive cloth of any kind or you will create scratches on the clear coat and possibly the polished aluminum. Use a fine-tipped brush to reapply the clear coat over surface scratches.

  • Stainless Steel Components

    Stainless steel components can rust under certain conditions. Sutherland adds a nano finish to most polished stainless steel components to ward off the potential for rust. To clean polished stainless steel, use water, soap and a fine cloth. Do not use an abrasive cleaner or abrasive cloth of any kind or scratches could be created on the stainless steel.

  • Polymer

    Sutherland polymer furniture should be cleaned as needed using soap, water, and a soft cloth or the soft side of a sponge. If you have persistent stains or grease spots, please first try a Magic Eraser to remove the stain. Harder to remove stains may need an additional treatment using a universal solvent, such as KH-7. Once cleaned, be sure to rinse the furniture well with clean water and let dry.

  • Cor-Ten (Corten) Steel

    Cor-Ten Steel, also called weathering steel, is developed to form a stable rust-like appearance. The only maintenance required would be periodic cleaning and inspection. Use water to rinse off any dirt and/or contaminates. The patina developed over time will continue to blend and improve with age, exposing deeper, more earthly tones in the metal.

  • Zinc

    Zinc goes through a weathering process that has two steps. The first step gives the zinc a white chalky appearance and texture that will rub off on clothing. The second step replaces the chalky texture with a gray/white patina, with no residue. If zinc is used indoors, it may oxidize depending on the humidity of the area. To clean zinc when indoors (when it has not oxidized), simply use a dry cloth. To speed up the oxidation process, zinc can be watered down and then let dry. The more this is repeated, the more reaction it will cause, speeding up the process. Before oxidation is complete, drops of water may cause spots, which will oxidize eventually.

  • Structured Mesh

    For regular cleaning, combine the following ingredients:

    1. Three gallons of water
    2. One cup of bleach
    3. One cup of mild detergent (we recommend Dawn dish washing liquid)

    Wash the mesh with the soft side of a sponge or a soft cloth. Rinse off with clean water and allow to air dry.

  • Woven

    Sutherland Woven Classics are all season synthetic, hand woven construction over powder coated aluminum frames with stainless steel hardware. Crafted to last for years, Sutherland wovens are resistant to fading, frost, heat, chlorine, alcohol and salt. To maintain this rugged material, clean with mild soap and water, rinse thoroughly and allow to dry before reattaching cushions (when applicable). For heavy build up of dirt and residue, use a mild detergent with water and a low pressure hose. Loosen soil with a soft bristle brush and rinse thoroughly with water.

  • Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete

    Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete (GFRC) is comprised of marine-grade material, making items made of this composite suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Sutherland John Dickinson Collection pieces made with GFRC are standard in a matte white finish. GFRC material is more susceptible to staining than wood. Sutherland does not guarantee these products to be “stain proof.” For regular cleaning, use a damp cloth to remove dust and dirt. A mild soap solution may also be used if necessary. Do not use harsh solvents or industrial cleaners. It is very important to clean spills as soon as possible to avoid long-term stains. Please contact Sutherland Customer Service for recommendations.

  • Stone Tops

    Sutherland stone and marble tops have a sealer applied on them before leaving our production facility. While we use the highest quality product available, we do not guarantee them to be “stain proof”. However, the application of a sealer reduces the stone’s vulnerability to staining. As with any natural material, chemicals and stains can penetrate and damage the surface. To keep our stone tops looking their very best for years to come, it is best to clean any spills right away. If a discoloration occurs, there are several options for cleaning. First, we recommend cleaning with water, soap and a soft cloth. However, if the stain is persistent, we recommend using Marseille Soap Flakes, or American Home K2r (powder form) to remove the discoloration. If the stain is recent, apply the cleaning product and let it work for 1-2 minutes. If the stain is older, allow the cleaning product to work for 1-2 hours to allow time for absorption of all the grease. Avoid abrasive cleaners or cloths as this can scratch or pit the surface. Part of the normal maintenance on stone includes periodically resealing the tops. To test whether your stone needs to be resealed, place a small water drop on the stone and leave it for several minutes. Please contact your Sutherland Sales Support for stone-based sealer recommendations.

  • Glazed Lava Stone

    Sutherland lava stone is made from Italy’s Mt. Vesuvius lava. It is a natural product that has been glazed for additional protection and beauty. Under normal wear and tear, your lava stone shouldn’t need much more than an occasional cleaning with soap and water, using a soft cloth. If, however, a material known to stain most items is spilled and allowed to dry on the surface, it is possible that a stain may occur. Sutherland recommends cleaning up the stain immediately with soap and water. If the stain does not come out, we recommend diluting FILACLEANER or FILAPS87 in lukewarm water to help remove any stains that may occur. Once cleaned with the Fila cleaner(s), we recommend applying FILAMP90 ECO PLUS to a dry surface, per the instructions on the container.

  • Dekton

    Dekton is a high-performance surface that is resistant to stains, scratches, chipping, and UV rays. Sutherland recommends cleaning any spills right away. Start with a neutral soap applied to the affected area and gently rub in a circular motion with a damp microfiber cloth. Leaving the soap to work for a couple of minutes, then with a cloth, wipe off any soap residue. Finally dry it with a soft cloth. For stubborn stains, vinegar or acetone can be applied to the stain and left for 30 seconds to a minute and wipe away with a soft cloth. Do not use hydrofluoric acid products to clean the Dekton as it can damage the surface.

  • Terracotta

    Sutherland Domani pieces are handmade using a natural material that varies in color, texture and appearance. Each planter includes a drainage hole to allow water in the soil to drain freely. The Linea Small, Linea Medium and Luna are not frost proof due to their shape, and if these three are left outdoors where temperatures get near or below freezing, they may crack. We recommend protecting these three planters by inserting a Styrofoam layer in the inner walls prior to planting. To clean terracotta, simply wash it with a mild soap and water.

  • Perennials Rope

    Perennials Solution-Dyed Acrylic Rope is featured on several Sutherland collections. This material is a colorfast, durable and all-season synthetic rope that is hand-woven onto powder coated aluminum or solid teak frames with stainless steel hardware. Designed for longevity, this rope will not fade, and is resistant to frost, heat, chlorine, alcohol and salt. To best preserve the beauty of your Sutherland furniture, brush or vacuum any loose dirt from the surface of the product. If heavier buildup of dirt or other residues exist, use a mild detergent with water and a low pressure hose. Gently loosen soil as needed with a soft-bristle brush and rinse thoroughly with water. For more persistent staining, a 50/50 mixture of bleach and water can be applied to the stain. Thorough rinsing is essential. Allow to air dry before reattaching cushions (where applicable).

  • Outdoor Cushions & Upholstery

    The following procedures are recommended for the care of premium outdoor fabrics, such as Perennials® Outdoor Fabrics. To maintain cushions, use a mild cleaner like natural soap or Formula 409® and lukewarm water. Blot the cleaner and rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove any dirt, then air-dry. If using other fabrics, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. Please note that mildew may grow on dirt and residue that has not been removed from the fabric. As with any fine furnishings, use good judgment when exposing cushions to risks such as wildlife or extreme weather. For cleaning cushions constructed of exterior-use foam, we recommend flushing with water and air-drying without removing the cover. Removing the cover may eventually break down the seams and distort the fabric.

  • Furniture Covers

    All Sutherland furniture covers are designed to fit each piece specifically. A durable zipper and Velcro® straps help prevent the furniture cover from lifting off during inclement weather.

    Every furniture cover now features a thermoplastic urethane coating to provide superior protection from the harsh outdoor elements. Additionally, furniture covers are crafted with a fabric which offers a softer hand and prevents “crazing” on the exterior of the furniture cover.

    An element of breathability is provided by a vent on the side of all Sutherland furniture covers. Every furniture cover comes with a handy storage bag for when not in use.

    Download Furniture Covers Guide