Key Takeaways
- 1Do NOT pressure wash immediately—it turns dust into permanent stains.
- 2Wash down gently with a garden hose first to remove loose particles.
- 3Use 'elastic' exterior paint to resist future staining.
- 4Professional cleaning costs €150-400; repainting €2,000-5,000.
Quick Answer
Never pressure wash dry Calima dust—it drives particles into render causing permanent stains. Instead: (1) Wait for the dust event to pass, (2) Gently rinse with a garden hose from top to bottom, (3) Use a soft brush with mild detergent for stubborn areas, (4) Only pressure wash hard surfaces like tiles after the initial rinse. For severe staining, hire a professional soft-wash service (€150-400).
Another dust storm from the Sahara has turned the Costa del Sol orange. While the eerie skies make for great photos, the 'Calima' leaves behind a fine, sticky red dust that can cause permanent damage to your villa's facade if cleaned incorrectly. This guide covers everything you need to know about safely removing Calima dust and protecting your property for the future.
What is the Calima?
The Calima (from the Spanish word for "haze") is a meteorological phenomenon where hot, dry air carries fine dust particles from the Sahara Desert across the Mediterranean. The Costa del Sol typically experiences 3-5 Calima events per year, primarily between February and August.
The dust particles are extremely fine—often less than 10 micrometres—which allows them to penetrate deep into porous surfaces. This is why improper cleaning can cause more harm than good. You can check current dust levels and forecasts on the AEMET weather service.
The Golden Rule: No Pressure (Washing)
Never use a high-pressure washer (Karcher) directly on dry Calima dust. The high pressure drives the fine red particles deep into the pores of your render or paintwork, creating permanent stains that are almost impossible to remove without repainting.
It also turns the dust into a thick mud that runs down the walls, staining terraces and pool decks below. We've seen homeowners cause €3,000+ in damage by pressure washing within hours of a Calima ending.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- • Pressure washing while dust is still dry
- • Using bleach or acidic cleaners (reacts with minerals)
- • Scrubbing with abrasive brushes or scourers
- • Cleaning in direct sunlight (causes streaking)
- • Starting from the bottom (dirty water runs down)
Step-by-Step Cleaning Method
- Wait for it to pass: There is no point cleaning if more dust is forecast for tomorrow. A typical Calima lasts 2-5 days. Check the AEMET weather forecast and wait for clear conditions.
- The Gentle Rinse (Critical First Step): Start by gently rinsing the facade with a garden hose from the top down. Use a wide spray setting, not a jet. The goal is to lift the loose dust and wash it away without forcing it into the surface. This step alone removes 70-80% of the dust.
- Soft Wash with Detergent: For stubborn areas, use a soft car-wash brush or microfibre cloth with a mild, pH-neutral detergent diluted in water. Avoid harsh chemicals, bleach, or acidic cleaners that can react with the iron-rich minerals in Saharan dust.
- Rinse Again: Once scrubbed, rinse thoroughly from top to bottom to remove all detergent residue.
- Pressure Wash (Hard Surfaces Only): Only once the bulk of the dust is gone should you consider using a pressure washer, and only on a low setting to clean tiles, concrete, and other hard surfaces—never the painted walls or render.
Cleaning Costs: DIY vs Professional
| Service | DIY Cost | Professional Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Basic hose-down + soft wash | €10-20 (detergent) | €80-150 |
| Full facade soft-wash (2-storey villa) | Difficult without equipment | €150-400 |
| Terrace + pool deck cleaning | €30-50 (equipment hire) | €100-200 |
| Full exterior repaint (weather-resistant) | €500-1,000 (materials only) | €2,000-5,000 |
Long-Term Protection
If your villa is prone to staining (especially white or light-coloured renders), consider investing in preventative measures:
- Silicone-based Exterior Paint: These 'elastic' paints seal the pores of the render, making future cleaning much easier. Quality brands include Jotun, Valentine, and Titan.
- Hydrophobic Coating: A clear sealant applied over existing paint that causes water (and dirt) to bead and run off. Costs around €15-25/m² professionally applied.
- Retractable Awnings: Protect terraces and outdoor furniture by closing awnings when a Calima is forecast.
- Window Seals: Check and replace worn seals to prevent fine dust entering your home.
Need a Professional Refresh?
For severe staining or if you're due a repaint, find verified local professionals who specialize in weather-resistant exterior coatings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Calima and when does it happen?
The Calima is a hot, dust-laden wind that blows from the Sahara Desert across southern Spain. It typically occurs 3-5 times per year on the Costa del Sol, most commonly between February and August. The dust can reduce visibility and leave a thick orange-red coating on everything outdoors.
Can I use a pressure washer to clean Calima dust?
Never use a pressure washer directly on dry Calima dust. The high pressure drives fine particles deep into render and paint, causing permanent staining. Always rinse with a garden hose first, then use low pressure only on hard surfaces like tiles and concrete after the dust is wet.
How much does professional Calima cleaning cost?
Professional facade soft-washing after a Calima typically costs €150-400 for a standard 2-storey villa, depending on size and access requirements. A full repaint with weather-resistant coating costs €2,000-5,000.
How can I protect my villa from future Calima damage?
Apply a silicone-based or 'elastic' exterior paint that seals the pores of the render—this makes future cleaning much easier. Additionally, install retractable awnings over terraces and keep windows closed during dust events to minimize indoor accumulation.
Written by
Sofia Marti
Cleaning Specialist at CostaTrades
Expert contributor covering home maintenance, renovation, and property management on the Costa del Sol. Helping expats navigate Spanish construction and property ownership.
