Last Call for RV Spring Cleaning

Summer is right around the corner, so if you haven’t done any spring cleaning for your RV yet, the time is now! Cleaning both the exterior and interior of your RV is essential for the proper upkeep of your rig and for maintaining a comfortable living space. It’s also an excellent time to check for any damage or areas that may need repair and address those before heading out on any trips. However, cleaning an entire RV, travel trailer, or 5th wheel is no small task, especially if you’ll be working by yourself. It is advantageous to have a plan of action before putting on your rubber gloves and scrubbing!

Speaking of planning, check the predicted weather for the day you are thinking of cleaning your RV. Obviously, weather reports are not always accurate, but rain is not preferable while cleaning the exterior of your rig, and neither is too much sun or high temperatures. In extreme heat or direct sun, water spotting and streaking can be challenging to avoid, especially with large vehicles like RVs. Inclement weather can even make cleaning your RV dangerous.

This article will cover some general supplies you will need to clean your RV, interior and exterior cleaning checklists, and helpful tips. The sheer variety of vehicles that fall under the RV umbrella makes it almost impossible to create a single cleaning checklist that encompasses all makes, models, years, and designs of RVs. Still, most general tips apply across the board. Older RVs, RVs with after-market add-ons, or specialty materials may call for additional steps to be taken during cleaning which are not covered in this article.

General Supplies List

Below is a general list of cleaning supplies you will typically need when cleaning your RV. Gather everything you need before you begin to avoid having to make a mid-wash supply run.

Microfiber cleaning towels
Silicon-bristled toilet brush
Duster
Broom, vacuum, mop
Rubber roof brush (soft bristle)
Sprayer hose attachment or power washer
Disinfecting wipes or spray
Glass cleaner
RV Furniture & Interior Cleaner
RV Furniture Protectant & Conditioner
RV Exterior Wash & Wax
RV Rubber Seal Conditioner
RV Roof & Window Sealant (in case of cracks or leaks)
Freshwater tank sanitizing solution
Holding tank treatment and deodorizer

Cleaning Checklists

We know that not every RV is the same; in fact, there is quite a bit of variety in the RV world.

But it doesn’t matter whether you have a brand new class A coach or a renovated camper van; regular interior and exterior cleanings are imperative to the longevity of your rig.

RV Interior

RVs provide valuable indoor living space wherever you may go. Keeping that space clean is paramount to enjoying it.

Dust vents, ceilings, cabinets, lights, etc.
Wipe down and disinfect bathroom and kitchen surfaces
Clean toilets
Open windows to allow fresh air to move through
Clean windows and mirrors using glass cleaner
Clean fridge and food storage areas - toss out any expired items
Sort drawers, cabinets, and other storage spaces
- Get rid of unnecessary items.
- Restock items you like to have on hand (sunscreen, medical supplies, bath tissue, etc.)
Make beds with fresh linens.
Replace bathroom and kitchen towels with fresh ones
Clean floors
Sweep, mop, and vacuum depending on flooring type.
Replace air deodorizers and/or air fresheners
Check fire extinguisher expiration date and alarm batteries.
Check for anything in the interior that may need a repair.

RV Exterior

Your RV exterior is expected to handle a lot while on the road and in storage - rain, hail, bugs, tree sap, UV exposure, wind, etc. Cleaning your RV exterior regularly can help to preserve the quality of your RV exterior.

Check all exterior seams and seals for cracks, damage, or leaks.
- If sealant repair is necessary, check out this RV Education 101 post on how to remove the damaged section and reseal properly.
Check tire pressure, sidewalls, and treads for excessive wear.
Check and close all windows and doors before washing the exterior.
Use Wax & Wash to clean the exterior.
Always start from the top of your RV and work your way down.
Clean in small sections instead of trying to do an entire side, or the whole rig, at once
Clean and condition canopies and awnings
Sanitize the freshwater system
Holding tank treatment and deodorizer
Check and clean holding tank sensors.
Wipe down patio furniture or outdoor accessories you bring along on your travels.

Helpful Tips

Remember that your RV may have certain materials that are different from those in your house and thus require special cleaning products. One example I think of right away is the RV toilet. RV toilets are much more sensitive to harsh chemical cleaners and abrasion than the toilets in your home. Standard toilets are made from porcelain which is pretty durable and scratch-resistant. RV toilets are typically made from plastic or have plastic components which can be damaged more easily. If you’d like more details on the intricacies of cleaning an RV toilet, check out this helpful article on RVLife.com.
If you are having trouble cleaning your awnings, try removing the legs so that the awning material lays flat against the RV. This will allow you to scrub the entire surface more easily. When you are finished, replace the legs. Do this before cleaning the area under the awning on your RV.
Use caution when cleaning your roof. Whether climbing on top of your RV or using a ladder to reach the roof, surfaces will be slippery. Do not climb on the roof if you are unsure it is able to support your weight. Typically, a ladder will come attached as part of your rig if the roof is safe to walk on.
Use the right tools and cleaners for your RV. Check out some of these great RV cleaning products available at RecPro!

Has your RV been cleaned yet this spring? How often do you typically wash your rig? Is there anything you have a question about that wasn’t covered here? Let us know in the comments!

Jun 15th 2022 Molly Muhs