Outdoor cushions, awnings and parasols: winter care in Marbella
How to clean and dry terrace cushions, fabric awnings and parasols before winter on the Costa del Sol, and how to store them so mould does not take hold.
· 2 min read
Why outdoor fabrics need attention in November
After a long summer, terrace fabrics carry sun cream, salt, pollen, dust and the odd drink. Then the autumn rains arrive, and damp fabric left in a corner becomes the perfect place for black mould spots and a musty smell.
A good clean now, followed by proper drying, is far easier than trying to rescue cushions in February.
Cleaning cushions and their covers
Check the care label first. Many outdoor cushion covers are removable and machine washable at a low temperature; others are only meant to be surface-cleaned. If there is no label, treat the fabric gently and test any product on a hidden seam.
For surface cleaning, brush off loose dirt, then wipe with a soft cloth and lukewarm water with a little mild soap. Rinse with a cloth dampened in clean water so no soap is left behind, because residue attracts dirt. Avoid bleach, which can weaken fibres and fade colours.
Drying is the step that matters
The foam inside is the real problem: it holds water for days. Stand cushions on their edge in a breezy, shaded spot, turn them regularly and give them as long as they need. Strong direct sun can fade fabric, and a cushion that feels dry on the surface may still be damp inside.
Only store cushions when they are completely dry. If you are unsure, press a hand into the centre and smell it; any coolness or odour means it needs more time.
Awnings and parasols
Fabric awnings and parasols are usually cleaned in place. Brush off dust and cobwebs with a soft brush, then wash with lukewarm water and mild soap, working in small areas and rinsing well. Do not use a high-pressure jet, which can damage stitching and waterproof coatings.
Let them dry fully open before folding or retracting them. Check the arms, hinges and tracks for rust or salt crust and wipe them clean. If a motorised awning has a fault, or the fabric is torn, that is a job for the installer rather than a home repair.
Storing outdoor textiles for winter
Keep cushions in a dry, ventilated place such as a utility room or a storage box with air holes, not in a sealed plastic bag. Adding a sachet of lavender or a moisture absorber helps in a damp storage room or garage.
If you are away for the winter, Lavanda can handle the terrace routine as part of a regular visit: wiping furniture, airing cushions and telling you if anything looks damp. Book online to see the starting price; we confirm the final price for your home before the clean.
