The first warm days of spring can stir powerful emotions inside us – feelings of hope, love, and rejuvenation. After months of dreary, monochrome landscapes, we’re anxious to bite back into life.
But for us committed RVers, it’s time to hit the highway!
Hitting the road for that first trip of the season, however, requires preparation, especially if your rig has been holed up in a garage, or, worse yet, outside during the winter months.
Yes, you guessed it. It’s spring cleaning RV style time. Some elbow grease will be required to be sure, but believe us, it will be well worth the effort for the payout in miles of worry-free smooth sailing it delivers.
So here’s our list of cleaning tasks and products to get the job done right.
You might say that some of our tips are kind of obvious, like using soap and water to wash something that’s dirty, but remember, RV’s are also made of specialized materials that can require the use of specialized products for proper care. RV’s are also exposed to ultraviolet rays of the sun that can adversely affect materials if not properly protected. Finally, since your rig is a dwelling on wheels, there are internal systems, like water, sewage and propane that require attention.
Many of these products are available on the shop.rvcare.ca website. Look for the links and start shopping right away.
Cleaning the exterior:
- RV Wash & Wax – Use a specialized RV wash soap to clean the exterior which can help prevent damage to the finish.
- Tough Stains – black streaks, dried bug stains & rust
- Complete Cleaning Kit – clean your RV like a pro!
- Extendable Brush – makes reaching high spots easy.
- Microfiber Towels or Mitts – for a gentler clean on the surfaces.
- Wheel Cleaner – a product specifically designed for RV wheels to remove brake dust and grime.
- Rubber Roof – specially formulated to effectively remove dirt and grime from this material.
Cleaning the interior:
- Multi-Surface Cleaner – a cleaner suitable for a range of surfaces and materials, like countertops, upholstery, and floors.
- Deodorize & Disinfect – for a deeper clean
- Vacuum Cleaner or Shop Vac – make sure it has attachments for those hard to reach areas, as well as for cleaning carpets and upholstery.
- Glass Cleaner – you’ll want something that leaves your windows and mirrors streak free.
- Disinfectant Wipes or Spray – handy for sanitizing high-touch areas like doorknobs, handles, and countertops.
- Fabric Cleaner – for cleaning and freshening upholstery and curtains.
Maintenance and Inspection:
- Sealants and Lubricants – do an inspection of the seals around the windows, doors, and roof vents. Replace any damaged seals and lubricate hinges and locks.
- RV Roof Sealant – nothing can affect the value of your rig more adversely than water damage, so be sure you inspect the roof for any cracks or leaks and apply a sealant if needed. Note that there are different sealants for different kinds of roofing material. Check with your RV Care dealer for the kind sealant your RV needs.
- Tire Care – check tire pressure and tread wear. Use tire cleaners and protectants to prevent cracking and dry rot.
- Battery Maintenance – test and top off the charge of the RV battery if necessary. Check fluid levels and replenish as needed. Clean terminals and apply a corrosion inhibitor. Batteries should always be stored fully charged.
Propane System:
- Annual Check Up – Manufactures recommend that the LP system (liquid propane) be checked and Appliances serviced annually. This assures a leak-free system and the correct line pressure for the appliances. The Appliance service is performed to clean out and inspect the combustion/burning chambers for trouble-free operation.
- Propane Tank Gauge – check the level of propane in your tank and refill if necessary.
Water System Maintenance:
- Water Tank Cleaner – use a cleaner designed to sanitize the freshwater tank and water lines.
- Water Filter – replace or clean the water filter to ensure clean drinking water.
- Hose and Fittings – inspect for leaks or damage.
Awning Care:
- Awning Cleaner – use a cleaner specifically formulated for RV awnings to remove dirt and stains.
- Awning Protectant – apply a protectant to the awning fabric to prevent UV damage and mould growth.
General Supplies:
- Gloves – provides protection to your hands while cleaning.
- Bucket – for mixing cleaning solutions and carrying supplies.
- Sponges and Brushes – have a variety of each to tackle a variety of cleaning tasks.
- Trash Bags
Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations when using cleaning and maintenance products. Test products in inconspicuous areas first to ensure compatibility with your RV’s materials. With proper care and maintenance, your RV will be ready for many adventures to come!
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