Being on the road, embracing the freedom of the open highway, often means exposing your recreational vehicle (RV) to a barrage of environmental challenges. From the relentless sun and pelting rain to dusty backroads and muddy campsites, your home on wheels endures a lot. Consistent cleaning isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a vital practice that safeguards your RV from premature wear and tear, preserving its value and ensuring enjoyable travels for years to come. Ideally, aim to wash the exterior of your RV at least quarterly, and even more frequently if your adventures take you through particularly harsh environments.
While the prospect of cleaning an entire RV can feel overwhelming, breaking the task into smaller, manageable steps and incorporating them into your routine will make the process far less daunting. Regular upkeep not only simplifies the deep cleans but also fosters a sense of pride in your well-maintained mobile haven. Let’s explore 17 essential tips to keep your RV in pristine condition, inside and out. This is how you take care of your RV.
1. Decipher the RV Instruction Manual
Before you reach for the cleaning supplies, your RV’s instruction manual is an invaluable resource. It holds a wealth of information specific to your RV model, including recommended cleaning products, techniques, and crucial warnings against substances that could damage surfaces or finishes. The manual often details the composition of your RV’s exterior and interior materials, enabling you to choose appropriate cleaners that won’t cause discoloration, scratching, or other forms of degradation.
Beyond the manual, explore the RV manufacturer’s website for additional cleaning guidance and specialized care instructions. Many manufacturers provide detailed maintenance guides, video tutorials, and FAQs to assist owners in keeping their RVs in top condition. Neglecting to consult these resources can lead to costly mistakes and irreversible damage to your RV’s surfaces and finishes. It is important to take good care of your RV.
2. Rethink Brand-Name Products
The allure of RV-specific cleaning products can be strong, but resist the urge to splurge on expensive, specialized solutions. In many cases, common household cleaners are perfectly adequate for maintaining your RV’s cleanliness. Dish soap, window cleaner, and even distilled white vinegar can be effective and budget-friendly alternatives.
The key is to understand the materials you’re cleaning. For example, a mild dish soap solution is excellent for washing the RV’s exterior, while a standard glass cleaner will keep your windows sparkling. Distilled white vinegar, a natural and versatile cleaner, can tackle various tasks, from removing hard water stains to deodorizing the interior. While specialized RV cleaning products may offer convenience, they often contain similar ingredients to their household counterparts at a higher price point. Smart choices save you money, and keep your RV shining.
3. Invest in a Quality Handheld Vacuum
The compact interiors of RVs are notorious for accumulating dust, crumbs, and debris in hard-to-reach corners. A bulky, full-sized vacuum cleaner is often impractical for navigating these confined spaces. A high-quality handheld vacuum is an essential tool for maintaining a clean and comfortable RV interior.
Look for a handheld vacuum with strong suction power, a lightweight design, and a variety of attachments. A hose attachment is particularly useful for reaching tight crevices and cleaning upholstery. Consider cordless models for enhanced maneuverability. Before making a purchase, consult fellow RVers and read online reviews to identify the best handheld vacuum for your specific needs.
4. Clean Both Sides of the Windows
Windows are your portals to the scenic landscapes that define the RV experience. Don’t let grime and dirt obscure your view. Regularly clean both the interior and exterior surfaces of your RV windows to ensure optimal clarity.
For smaller RVs with easily accessible windows, standard window cleaner and a microfiber cloth will suffice. However, if you have a larger RV with numerous or hard-to-reach windows, consider investing in an extendable squeegee for efficient cleaning. Alternatively, a membership at an oversized local car wash can provide a convenient and thorough window cleaning solution.
5. Don’t Forget Your Window and Door Seals
Window and door seals, typically made of rubber, play a crucial role in protecting your RV from the elements. However, these seals are prone to accumulating dust, dirt, and grime, which can compromise their effectiveness and shorten their lifespan.
Regularly clean your window and door seals with a mild dish detergent solution or a specialized rubber cleaner. In arid climates, consider using a cleaner that also moisturizes the seals to prevent them from drying out and cracking. This is particularly important if you frequently travel in the American West or Southwest, where the dry air can accelerate the deterioration of rubber seals.
6. Dump Those Tanks
While not directly related to the RV’s visible appearance, the gray and black water tanks can significantly impact your overall comfort and enjoyment. Poorly maintained tanks can emit unpleasant odors that permeate the interior and exterior of your RV.
To keep your RV smelling fresh, diligently dump and flush your tanks as needed. Invest in a dedicated set of rubber gloves, a hose, a bucket, and other necessary items specifically for handling tank maintenance. Proper tank management is essential for a pleasant RV experience.
7. Prevent Mold and Mildew
Mold and mildew are persistent adversaries of RVers, thriving in moist environments. To combat these unwelcome guests, take proactive measures to reduce moisture levels inside your RV.
Run your air conditioner in humid climates, open windows and doors whenever possible to promote ventilation, and place moisture-absorbing packets in closets and storage areas. If you encounter mildew-smelling clothing, avoid using detergent, as it can actually feed the mildew. Instead, wash the affected items with a couple of cups of distilled white vinegar to kill the mildew and eliminate odors.
8. Swap Out That Propane Tank
Rusted and dilapidated propane tanks can detract from the overall appearance of your RV. If your tanks are looking worn, consider replacing them with new ones. Alternatively, if the tanks are still in good condition, give them a fresh coat of paint to revitalize their appearance.
Just as a fresh coat of paint can transform the look of a house, clean and bright propane tanks can significantly enhance the curb appeal of your RV.
9. Give Your Tires Some Shine
Tires are a prominent feature of your RV’s exterior, and gleaming, black tires can instantly elevate its aesthetic appeal. Most commercial tire cleaners are suitable for RV tires. Rinse your tires, scrub them with a natural brush and tire cleaner, and finish with a tire shine spray for a polished look.
If you own a large RV, consider taking it through an oversized vehicle wash with a tire cleaning option to expedite the process.
10. Don’t Forget the Roof
The roof is a critical component of your RV, protecting the interior from leaks and other damage. Many modern RVs feature membrane roofing, while older models may have metal roofs.
If your RV has a metal roof, you can clean it using the same methods as the RV’s exterior. However, if your RV has a membrane roof, it’s recommended to use specialized cleaners designed for this type of material. These cleaners are typically available at RV and camping stores. Aim to clean your membrane roof at least twice a year to keep it in good condition. While cleaning, take the opportunity to inspect the roof for any tears, cracks, rips, or other damage.
11. Stock Up on Magic Erasers
Magic erasers are invaluable for removing stubborn dirt and stains that ordinary cleaners can’t tackle. These erasers are essentially blocks of incredibly fine sandpaper, so exercise caution when using them on delicate surfaces.
Before using a magic eraser on any surface, test it in an inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn’t cause damage. RV forums are a great source of information on the safe and effective use of magic erasers in RV cleaning. Generic magic erasers, available in bulk on online marketplaces, offer a cost-effective alternative to name-brand products.
12. Empty Your Fridge
Forgotten leftovers and expired food can quickly turn your RV fridge into a source of unpleasant odors. Regularly clean out your RV fridge to prevent unpleasant smells from permeating the interior.
Before storing your RV for the season, make sure to thoroughly clean out the fridge. Leaving food inside can result in a stinky surprise when you return.
13. Clean Out The Storage Area
RV storage areas can harbor hidden messes and odors, as well as mold, mildew, and other unwanted critters. Regularly clean out your RV’s storage areas, including external compartments, to prevent the accumulation of dust, dirt, and debris.
Thoroughly inspect all nooks and crannies to ensure nothing is left behind that could decompose and create unpleasant smells.
14. Wash the Undercarriage
The undercarriage of your RV is exposed to grease, mud, and road grime. Cleaning the undercarriage reduces the chances of this residue transferring to your or your RV’s exterior.
Washing the undercarriage can also help reduce gas and noxious odors. While manually cleaning the undercarriage is a challenging task, many oversized car washes offer undercarriage cleaning services for a reasonable fee.
15. Perform Routine Maintenance
A well-maintained RV is less likely to experience cleanliness issues. Neglected RVs can produce smoky exhaust, oil leaks, and other problems that can stain the exterior and create unpleasant odors.
Regularly servicing your RV’s mechanical systems can prevent these issues and keep your RV running smoothly and cleanly.
16. Freshen Up Your Mattress and Linens
It’s easy to postpone changing your linens while on the road, but dirty linens can leave you feeling grimy and accumulate sweat and dead skin cells.
Travel with two sets of linens for quick and easy sheet changes. If your mattress smells musty, remove all sheets, spray the mattress with a mixture of water and lavender essential oil, and allow it to air out for several hours, preferably overnight.
17. Think About Power Washing
Power washing can be an effective way to clean your RV’s exterior, but it’s important to proceed with caution. Some RVers swear by it, while others avoid it altogether. The suitability of power washing depends on your RV’s construction and materials.
Power washing can potentially damage the roof and paint job of certain models. Consult your RV manufacturer’s guidelines on cleaning your RV’s exterior, or contact your dealership for recommendations. By following these 17 tips for cleaning your RV, you can keep your home on wheels in top condition, ensuring enjoyable and worry-free travels for years to come.
