The Complete Cleaning Guide for Australian Caravans

To maintain their shiny appearance, Australian caravans need the same maintenance as any other vehicle on the planet. It's a great place to hang out when it's tidy, but that's not all it signifies. However, spotting maintenance needs is one of the many benefits of cleaning. These best practises for cleaning your caravan should be included in your routine preventative maintenance. Keep in mind that if you don't keep up with the cleaning, your caravan will quickly start to seem old and unclean, giving the impression that you are not a responsible caravan owner.

Instructions in a step-by-step format on how to clean Australian caravans

1. Wear PPE when cleaning and have the essential equipment ready

There's a good chance you won't be able to clean the van's roof without a safe ladder. So, a step or stepladder will be necessary. Ladder treads and soapy water are not a good combination, so be cautious and wear appropriate footwear if you plan on doing any slinging. You may get a long-handled brush, or something similar, at any auto-care store since they have a wide variety of accessories.

Cleaning and inspecting those hatches, as well as your air conditioner, solar panels, and sealants, is much easier if you can go up on top of Australian caravans. If it is disintegrating, it will also not be helped by a high-pressure explosion (unless refurbishment is intended).

2. High-pressure water guns aren't suitable for Australian caravans

The use of a high-pressure cleaner on a caravan is a recipe for disaster, even though the portable pressure washer has revolutionised the house cleaning sector. You might accidentally dislodge seals or force water into an unintended area if you aren't cautious with where you aim the spray. Older Australian caravans with peeling paint might also come across as tacky if you're not cautious. High-pressure washes often succeed in erasing van stickers.

It should be acceptable if you can dial down the water pressure for the top areas of the caravan. Nevertheless, washing with a hose pipe and a bucket or sponges will be a safer choice, even if it takes more time. In contrast to using a power washer, manually washing your vehicle will reveal any hidden damage. The underside of an off-road vehicle may benefit from being washed with a pressure washer, but be careful where you aim the water jet.

3. Using the right cleaning detergent is critical

Try to use the same detergents that you spent hours choosing for your tow vehicle, even if they are only a step up from washing-up liquid. Trim, painted panels, seals, and rubber are all safe from car washes' cleaning agents and may be used on your van's bodywork.

Avoid washing your vehicle in areas where it might cause blockages. Also, don't allow water laden with detergent and other bulk chemicals (degreaser, etc.) to seep into unintended waterways. Wash it on the grass or at a professional van wash, but be careful not to use too much pressure.

4. Gravity is your best friend when cleaning Australian caravans

So obvious! Washing Australian caravans from top to bottom will save you from having to do it again. Cleaning the upper levels with soapy water can help release dirt and grime, making it easier to remove it from the lower levels.

On the other hand, much as with vehicles, you could choose to start with the wheels. Because of grit, oil, grease, and brake dust, it needs different water than the body.

5. Your worst enemy is harsh chemicals

Carefully clean the canvas or vinyl on your pop-top or expandable tent part of your caravan or camper trailer. This is true even though the rest of your vehicle is likely to be constructed of durable, life-in-the-outdoors materials. Your awning should be treated the same way. When cleaning Australian caravans, avoid using abrasives or strong chemicals. Instead, use soap and water or a cleaner designed specifically for the task. Although a powerful chemical may be used for periodic cleaning, it is unknown whether or not this might weaken the canvas or cause leaks if it were used consistently.

And if you have to use chemicals, be sure the dyes won't run. Before packing, make sure all fabric pieces are completely dry to prevent mould growth. Another helpful hint regarding mould is that white vinegar or cleaning vinegar may be used to eliminate mould spores, but low-cost mould killers often only bleach the problem away. Chips need brown vinegar.

6. Ensure that it is completely dry

To dry the car or camper, use a chamois or microfiber cloth, just as you did with the fabric areas. This will ensure that your paint job is streak-free (even if it isn't a bright white) and offer your eyes another opportunity to inspect the RV for any problems that may become more apparent at this distance. Don't close up your tool chests and storage compartments until you've made sure they've dried completely after being exposed to the air.

7. A thorough cleaning of the inside

You interact closely with everything within the vehicle, much as you would at home. You have a standard-type dustpan and brush on hand, but a cordless vacuum is also handy for more extensive cleaning. The inside of an Australian caravan can benefit from the use of a moderately powered vacuum cleaner.

To keep your kitchen organised, invest in a pair of canisters with snap-on lids for storing dry goods and other frequently used items. You may also use really convenient baskets. Instruct your whole caravan to follow this advice. It's important to make the most of available storage by maintaining order and placing frequently used goods within quick reach whenever possible.