How to Look After Sun Loungers in Autumn & Winter

To look after sun loungers through autumn and winter, give them a thorough clean at the end of the season, wash and fully dry the cushion covers, store cushions indoors, and keep the frames clean and sheltered from the worst of the weather. In much of Spain you may still enjoy sunny autumn afternoons by the pool, so the aim is not to pack everything away on 1 October but to protect your loungers as you use them less.

Here is a simple end-of-season routine. Browse our full range on the sun loungers collection page.

Why does end-of-season care matter?

Over a long Spanish summer, sun loungers collect sun cream, body oils, chlorinated or salty water, pollen, dust and sand. Left on through the cooler, damper months, that build-up can stain cushions and make frames look tired. A good clean and dry storage keeps your loungers looking newer for longer, and means less work when the pool season starts again.

Step 1: Clean the frames

1. Brush off loose dust, leaves and sand.
2. Wash the frame with warm water and a mild washing-up liquid, using a soft cloth or sponge.
3. Pay extra attention to armrests and joints, where sun cream collects.
4. Rinse with clean water, especially if you live near the coast or have a saltwater pool, to remove salt residue.
5. Dry with a soft towel.

Avoid abrasive pads and harsh chemical cleaners, which can damage powder-coated finishes.

Caring for teak arms

Loungers such as the Bruges Sun Lounger Set have Grade A teak arms. Teak is naturally resistant to decay and insects. Clean it gently with mild soapy water and a soft brush, working with the grain. Untreated teak naturally weathers to a silvery grey in strong sun; that is normal and does not affect its strength.

Step 2: Wash and dry the cushions

Cushions are where most summer grime ends up. Always check the care label first. The Bruges Sun Lounger Set has 250g spun polyester cushions with covers that are machine washable at 30 degrees.

• Remove the covers and shake out sand and debris.
• Pre-treat sun cream marks with a little mild detergent.
• Wash at the temperature on the care label.
• Dry completely before refitting or storing. Damp cushions stored away are the most common cause of mould and mildew.

Step 3: Store cushions indoors

Through the off-season, store cushions somewhere dry and ventilated, such as a garage, storeroom or spare room. Stand them on their edge or lay them flat, and avoid sealed plastic bags, which can trap moisture. A breathable storage bag or an old cotton sheet works well.

Step 4: Protect the frames through winter

• Shelter or store them when not in use, under a covered terrace or pergola, or in a garage if you have space.
• Use a cover if they stay outside, making sure the loungers are dry first so moisture is not trapped underneath.
• Secure them in strong wind. Coastal areas can see sudden gusts in autumn and winter; stack loungers against a wall or move them to a sheltered spot.
• Raise them slightly off standing water after heavy rain.

Step 5: Make the most of sunny winter days

One of the joys of living in Spain is that winter often brings bright, mild days. Keep one or two loungers in a sheltered, sunny spot through the cooler months and bring the cushions out on good days. The bioclimatic pergola is ideal here: open the slats to let in the winter sun, and close them when a shower passes.

Your spring checklist

1. Wipe the frames to remove winter dust.
2. Check joints and adjustable backrests move smoothly.
3. Bring cushions out and air them in the sun for a few hours.
4. Check covers for any marks you missed in autumn.
5. Position the loungers for the summer sun and shade.

Thinking of replacing your loungers?

The off-season is a good time to plan an upgrade, so your new loungers are in place for spring. Our current range includes:

Visit our showrooms

Our team, with more than 20 years of experience in outdoor furniture, is happy to advise on care or help you choose new loungers.

• San Javier: N-332, 81, 30730 San Javier, Murcia. Phone: +34 672 20 91 92
• Altea: Partida Cap-Blanch, 155, 03590 Altea, Alicante. Phone: +34 711 04 80 41

Frequently asked questions

Should I leave sun lounger cushions outside in winter?

It is best to store them indoors in a dry, ventilated place when they are not being used.

Can I machine wash sun lounger cushion covers?

Check the care label. The Bruges Sun Lounger Set covers are machine washable at 30 degrees.

How do I clean an aluminium sun lounger frame?

Warm water, mild washing-up liquid and a soft cloth. Rinse and dry, and avoid abrasive pads.

Why has the teak on my lounger turned grey?

Untreated teak naturally weathers to a silvery grey in sunlight. It is a normal, cosmetic change.

Ready for next summer

A little care now means your loungers are ready for the first warm days of spring. Explore our sun loungers, or visit us in San Javier or Altea.