Deep Cleaning Tips for Your RV
Whether you're getting your rig ready for winter storage or prepping it for your first run of the summer, it may be time to give it a deep cleaning. Heading out on the road with an RV that is clean from top to bottom is a great feeling. Here are some tips to help you make sure you get it all done well.
Dust Every Nook and Cranny
Before you do anything else, grab a dust rag and wipe down the ceilings, walls, countertops, and other surfaces. This should be the first tasks you tackle, because some of the dust will fall to the floor. Later when you clean the floor, you can get this residual dust.
Tackle the Floors
The floors in your rig take a beating when you're out camping. Even if you have a floor mat at the door, you're still going to track in the grit and grime from the campground. When it's time to deep clean, make sure you pay a lot of attention to the floors.
First, vacuum thoroughly, and sweep areas where you can't vacuum. Then, consider shampooing the carpet and steam cleaning the hard floors. It doesn't take long to get the floors cleaned and refreshed.
Steam Clean the Upholstery
While you have the carpet steamer or shampooer available, consider steam cleaning the upholstery. Make sure you use a cleaner that is safe for fire and provides stain-resistant protection, which are common in RV upholstery. If you have vinyl or leather upholstery, don't use a steamer or shampooer. Instead, clean it with a cleaner that's appropriate for the type of fabric you have.
Address the Dirtiest Room in the Rig – the Bathroom!
There's no denying that some of the worst messes in an RV happen in the bathroom. This room needs careful attention, particularly because it is prone to mold and mildew because of the damp air. Avoid the use of bleach or other abrasive cleaners, but use soapy water or a multipurpose cleaner to clean this area. If you're noticing mold, use a cleaner that is specific to killing it. Wipe every surface to thoroughly disinfect the bathroom. Check the faucets for signs of hard water damage or limescale buildup, and remove them if you find them.
Tackle Grease in the Kitchen
In the kitchen, one of the biggest problems you will need to tackle is grease. When you cook, it tends to splatter around, leaving sticky residue behind on your countertops and even your drawer pulls. Thankfully, warm water and soap often are all that you need to scrub this off. Use a soft cloth to protect the surface of your cabinets and countertops. Add a little bit of elbow grease, and you'll see the grease start to disappear.
Clean the Windows
When was the last time you enjoyed a clear view out of your windows? If fingerprints and other problems are blocking the view, grab the window cleaner and get to work. This small task makes a big difference in how clean your RV looks and feels.
Check for Broken Components
When you're deep cleaning your RV, you have a great opportunity to check if there is anything that's not working properly. Broken kitchen or bathroom cabinet hardware, drawer slides that catch, or pocket door hardware that isn't working properly can hurt your enjoyment of your RV. Take time to change these while you're deep cleaning your rig, so you'll be ready the next time you want to take it out.
Deep cleaning your RV can be done in an afternoon. Arm yourself with the right tools, push up your sleeves, and get the job done!
