Why Burmese Teak is Soaked in Water？

Burmese teak is prized for its durability, warm color, and natural oil content. It is widely used in high-end furniture, architecture, and kitchenware such as personalized cutting board wedding gift, personalized wooden tray, antimicrobial cutting board, and personalized wooden lazy susan.
During the processing of teak, a time-honored and effective treatment is soaking the wood in water for an extended period. While many may not understand the reasoning behind this method, we will explore its significance from traditional practices to modern applications.

Multiple Benefits of Traditional Water Soaking

Soaking teak in water can help block conditions that promote the growth of decay fungi and wood-boring insects, thereby extending its lifespan. Even though teak’s unique scent naturally repels pests, soaking can further enhance durability.

Water soaking helps maintain a high moisture content in the wood, preventing uneven shrinkage and cracking caused by drying. This ensures structural stability and an attractive appearance.

Before processing, soaking can also remove excess resin from the wood, reduce stress cracks during drying, and balance the internal and external moisture content, minimizing material loss.

The Real Reason Behind the Ancient Technique

In traditional woodworking, the primary reason for soaking is to remove organic matter within the wood cell walls. This organic matter is the main food source for insects, especially termites. Over time, water molecules gradually replace the organic matter, reducing pest risks.

Once the wood is removed from the water and naturally air-dried, it becomes a stable and durable material suitable for both large-scale timber structures and finely crafted furniture.

Teak in Modern Kitchenware

Today, Burmese teak is also commonly used to make premium kitchen products:

• Personalized Cutting Board Wedding Gift – Combines teak’s stability and beauty, engraved with the couple’s names or wedding date for a meaningful and practical gift.

• Antimicrobial Cutting Board – Teak’s natural oils and water-soaking process give it excellent antimicrobial properties, making it ideal for daily kitchen use.

• Personalized Wooden Tray – Durable and naturally textured, perfect for daily dining or entertaining guests.

• Personalized Wooden Lazy Susan – A rotating serving tray that offers both convenience and visual appeal on the dining table.

These products merge the stability achieved through traditional soaking with modern personalized design, making them both functional and stylish.

Care Tips for Teak Products

Avoid leaving teak products in standing water for extended periods, and keep the surface as dry as possible. Regularly apply food-grade mineral oil or coconut oil to maintain hydration and extend their lifespan.

Keep teak items away from direct sunlight and high heat to prevent moisture loss and warping. Storing them in a cool, ventilated place is ideal.

Water-soaking Burmese teak is a centuries-old wood treatment method that not only prevents decay, pests, and cracking but also improves stability and durability.
This process makes teak perfect for high-quality kitchen products such as personalized serving trays, antimicrobial cutting boards, personalized trays, and lazy susans. Whether used at home or given as a gift, teak products embody the harmony between traditional craftsmanship and modern design.