Autumn terrace care: teak and outdoor furniture in Marbella

Why autumn is the moment to reset your terrace

After a long summer of sun, sunscreen, food and sea salt in the air, outdoor furniture is carrying a lot. Then the first autumn rains arrive and turn that film of dust and salt into streaks and stains.

Cleaning in October or early November, before the damp winter weather settles in, is far easier than scrubbing in spring.

Cleaning teak without damaging it

Brush off loose dirt first, then wash teak with lukewarm water, a little mild soap and a soft brush, working along the grain. Rinse well and let it dry fully in the shade.

Avoid high-pressure washers, which lift the fibres and roughen the wood, and harsh bleach-based products. Whether you oil teak or let it turn silver-grey is a matter of taste; if you do oil it, only do so on clean, completely dry wood.

Cushions, parasols and metal

Check the care label on cushion covers, brush off dust and treat stains early with mild soap and water. Let everything dry completely before storing, as damp cushions in a closed box are how mildew starts.

Wipe metal frames with fresh water and a soft cloth to remove salt, and look for early rust spots or flaking paint so they can be dealt with before winter.

Paving, drains and glass

Sweep the terrace and clear leaves and dust from drains and gutters so autumn storms can run off rather than pool. Natural stone should be cleaned with a product suitable for stone, never with acids.

Wash glass balustrades and sliding doors with fresh water and a squeegee to remove salt before it etches in.

Leaving it to someone else

If your villa is empty for part of the winter, a visit to tidy the terrace and bring furniture in or cover it saves a lot of work later. Lavanda can include terrace and outdoor areas in a clean; tell us what you need when you book and we confirm the final price for your property beforehand.