Spring Cleaning Your RV: Tips for a Fresh Start

As winter fades and the days get longer, it’s the perfect time to give your RV a deep clean and prepare it for upcoming adventures. Spring cleaning your RV not only makes it more comfortable but also ensures it’s in top shape for the road. Here are some effective tips to freshen up your Ember before your next adventure.

1. Declutter and Organize

Start by going through every storage space in your RV and removing unnecessary items. Donate, recycle, or discard anything you no longer need. You can organize your essentials by using space-saving solutions such as stackable bins and hanging organizers to keep everything tidy and easily accessible.

2. Deep Clean the Interior

Just like your home, your RV needs a good deep cleaning every once in a while to keep things running smoothly and in great shape.

• Wipe down all surfaces, including countertops, tables, and cabinets, using your favorite cleaning products
• Mop floors and shake out any rugs to remove dust and debris
• Wash curtains, bedding, and seat covers to eliminate any lingering odors or allergens, (especially important if you have furry travel companions who shed)
• Clean and disinfect high-touch areas like door handles, light switches, and control panels
• Wipe down the interior of your refrigerator using warm water and a food-safe surface cleaner

3. Inspect and Maintain Appliances

Before hitting the road, you’ll want to ensure all appliances are in working order. It is helpful to do this step well ahead of your first planned outing so you’ll have time to fix anything that may need attention before your trip.

• Check the refrigerator and freezer for expired items and defrost if necessary
• Clean the oven, stovetop, and microwave
• Test the air conditioning and heating systems to make sure they function properly
• Run water through the plumbing system and clean water tanks to prevent buildup and odors

4. Refresh the Exterior

The exterior of your RV also needs some TLC during the Spring cleaning process. It is important to not only clean the exterior, but to also inspect it for any damage that requires your attention.

• Inspect the roof for leaks or damage
• Clean and condition rubber seals around windows and doors
• Wash the RV and, if you’re really feeling like going the extra mile, wax the exterior to protect the finish and maintain its shine

5. Check Tires and Safety Equipment

Safety should always be a priority when prepping for travel. Tires, lights and more should all be inspected before hitting the road.

• Inspect tires for wear, proper inflation, and any signs of cracking
• Test all lights, including brake lights and turn signals
• Check and replace batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms
• Ensure the fire extinguisher is up to date and accessible

6. Restock Essential Supplies

Before your next trip, restock cleaning supplies, first aid kits, and pantry staples. Ensure you have extra batteries, flashlights, and emergency tools readily available.

7. Maintain Water and Waste Systems

• Sanitize fresh water tanks and replace any old water filters
• Empty and clean gray and black water tanks using biodegradable treatments
• Check for any leaks or damage in the plumbing system

8. Perform a Systems Check

As a final step, run a full systems check to ensure everything is in top condition. Some things to pay attention to include:

• Battery levels and charging system
• Propane tanks and connections
• Electrical outlets and generator performance
• Awnings and slide-outs for smooth operation

Spring cleaning your RV is an essential step in getting ready for the upcoming travel season. By decluttering, deep cleaning, and performing routine maintenance, you ensure a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable experience on the road. Happy travels!