Owning an RV opens up endless opportunities for adventure and travel, but it also comes with responsibilities, one of which is maintaining the cleanliness of your RV, including the awning. An RV awning is exposed to the elements, collecting dirt, mildew, stains, and other debris over time. Cleaning your RV awning doesn’t have to be complicated. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to clean RV awning effectively, including tips on the best homemade RV awning cleaner, tackling RV awning stains, and removing mold.
Why You Should Clean Your RV Awning
Before diving into the cleaning process, let’s discuss why maintaining a clean RV awning is so important. Regular cleaning helps extend the life of your awning, keeping it looking great and functioning properly. It also ensures that you don’t carry around unnecessary dirt and mildew that could affect the overall appearance of your RV. Whether you use your RV for weekend getaways or extended road trips, a well-maintained awning can enhance your outdoor experience.
Tools and Supplies You’ll Need
To clean your RV awning, you’ll need some essential cleaning supplies. These tools will help you tackle stains, mold, and mildew effectively:
Best RV Awning Cleaner: Commercial cleaners like Camco awning cleaner or Thetford awning cleaner are great options for quick and efficient cleaning.
Best Homemade RV Awning Cleaner: If you prefer a DIY approach, making your own cleaner with household ingredients like vinegar can be a great alternative.
Soft brush or broom: A soft-bristled brush or broom will help remove loose dirt and debris without damaging the fabric.
Water hose: You’ll need a hose to rinse off the awning.
Bucket: For mixing cleaning solutions.
Mold and mildew remover: If your awning has mold, you’ll need a mold remover or use a vinegar-based solution.
Sponge or cloth: For scrubbing and wiping.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Clean RV Awning
Now that you’ve gathered all your tools, let’s break down the cleaning process.
Extend the Awning and Prepare the Area
First, extend the awning fully to give yourself enough space to work. Make sure the area beneath the awning is clear of any obstacles or furniture. Lay down a tarp or drop cloth underneath to catch any runoff from the cleaning process.
Remove Loose Dirt and Debris
Use a soft broom or brush to sweep away loose dirt, leaves, or any other debris on the surface of the awning. This will help prevent the dirt from rubbing into the fabric when you start cleaning.
Choose Your Cleaner: Homemade or Commercial
You can opt for the best RV awning cleaner available on the market, such as Camco awning cleaner or Thetford awning cleaner. These products are formulated to break down dirt and stains without damaging the fabric.
Alternatively, you can use a homemade RV awning cleaner. One of the most effective homemade solutions is to mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Vinegar is a natural cleaning agent that works wonders on stains, mold, and mildew.
Apply the Cleaner
Spray your chosen cleaner generously across the surface of the awning, making sure to cover all areas, including the underside. If you’re dealing with tough RV awning stains, you may want to let the cleaner sit for 10–15 minutes to allow it to break down the grime.
Scrub Away Stubborn Stains
Using a soft brush or sponge, gently scrub the fabric of the awning to remove stubborn stains, dirt, or mold. If your awning has mold, apply a mold and mildew remover or a vinegar-based solution directly to the affected areas. You can also use awesome cleaner to tackle particularly tough stains and grime.
Rinse Thoroughly
Once you’ve scrubbed the awning, use a water hose to rinse off the cleaning solution. Be sure to thoroughly rinse all areas of the awning to remove any cleaning residue. Leaving soap or cleaner behind can attract more dirt over time.
Dry and Inspect
After rinsing, allow your RV awning to air dry completely. Once dry, inspect it for any remaining stains or dirt. If you spot any areas that need more attention, repeat the cleaning process as necessary.
How to Clean Underside of Camper Awning
Cleaning the underside of your camper awning is just as important as the top surface. To clean the underside, follow these additional steps:
- Lift the awning slightly to give yourself better access to the underside.
- Spray your homemade or commercial cleaner on the underside.
- Scrub gently with a soft brush or sponge to remove any dirt or stains.
- Rinse the underside thoroughly and let it dry.
How to Clean an Awning with Mold
If your RV awning has mold, don’t panic! You can easily remove it by using a mold and mildew remover or a homemade solution made of equal parts vinegar and water. Vinegar is effective at killing mold without causing harm to the fabric. After applying the solution, scrub gently and rinse well.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean my RV awning?
It’s recommended to clean your RV awning at least twice a year—once before the start of your travel season and once after it ends. However, if you’re frequently camping in areas with heavy rain, pollen, or other environmental factors, you might want to clean it more often to prevent dirt and mold buildup.
Can I use regular household cleaners to clean my RV awning?
While it’s best to use a best RV awning cleaner, homemade solutions such as a vinegar and water mix can also be effective for cleaning your awning. However, avoid harsh chemicals like bleach as they can damage the fabric and affect its waterproof properties.
How do I remove mold from my RV awning?
To remove mold from your awning, use a mold and mildew remover or a homemade solution of equal parts vinegar and water. Apply the solution to the affected area, scrub gently with a soft brush, and rinse thoroughly. Be sure to let it dry completely afterward.
Can I clean the underside of my RV awning?
Yes, cleaning the underside of your camper awning is essential for keeping it in good condition. You can follow the same cleaning steps as the top side, ensuring you use a soft brush or sponge to avoid damaging the fabric. Rinse it thoroughly afterward.
What’s the best homemade RV awning cleaner?
One of the most effective homemade RV awning cleaners is a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water. This solution is great for removing dirt, stains, and even mold. For stubborn stains, you can add a small amount of dish soap to the mix for extra cleaning power.
Conclusion
Keeping your RV awning clean is an essential part of RV maintenance that shouldn’t be overlooked. Whether you choose to use a Camco awning cleaner, a Thetford awning cleaner, or a homemade RV awning cleaner, following these simple steps will ensure that your awning remains in great condition. Regular cleaning also helps prevent RV awning stains and mold buildup, prolonging the life of your awning.
Incorporating these cleaning habits into your RV maintenance routine will ensure that your awning stays fresh, durable, and ready for your next outdoor adventure. So, whether you’re cleaning off dirt, stains, or mold, you’ll now have the tools and knowledge to get the job done.
