Perry Mack
Our rig came with a builtin vacuum. Check that your canister is connected and that you have a vac bag in it.
Keeping an RV clean can be challenging. Dust, sand, and dirt easily make their way inside, and frequent travel means fabrics, floors, and surfaces can quickly show wear. With the right methods, however, it’s possible to refresh these areas and keep the RV looking and feeling well-maintained for many miles to come.
From Seats to Sheets: Refreshing Your RV’s Fabrics
RV fabrics naturally collect dust, dirt, dander, and odors. Upholstery and cushions may hold onto food smells, while curtains and bedding can absorb dust and allergens. Regular care helps extend the life of these materials.
Vacuum Fabrics and Upholstery
Use a handheld or upright vacuum with a brush or upholstery attachment. Pay attention to crevices, fabric headboards, and curtains (use a low-suction setting for delicate materials).
Perry Mack
Valances are easily forgotten since we don't have them in our home.
Treat Fabric Stains Gently
Prepare a mild solution of 1 cup warm water, 1 tablespoon vinegar, and a few drops of dish soap. Dab stains gently with a cloth dipped in the solution until the spot fades. Test on a hidden area first.
Eliminate Odors Naturally
Lightly sprinkle baking soda on cushions, mattresses, and pet bedding. Allow it to sit for 15–30 minutes before vacuuming to help remove odors.
Perry Mack
A quick vacuum with the right attachment keeps your RV fabrics looking clean and refreshed.
Wash Removable Covers and Linens
If covers, blankets, or pillowcases are removable and machine washable, run them through a gentle cycle with mild detergent. Air-dry or tumble dry on low heat.
Deep Clean with Steam
For fabrics that cannot be machine washed, use a handheld steam cleaner. This method removes grime and bacteria from upholstery, sofa arms, cushions, and fabric headboards.
From Carpet to Vinyl: Keeping RV Floors Looking New
RV floors experience heavy use and require regular cleaning to prevent buildup.
Perry Mack
Textured walls trap dust and dirt so give a gentle wipe or vacuum.
Clear Away Dust and Debris
Sweep, vacuum, or dry mop floors, including corners and spaces under furniture.
Gently Clean Hard Floors
Most RV flooring is vinyl or laminate. Use a slightly damp mop with a gentle cleaner. Avoid excess water to prevent subfloor damage.
Perry Mack
Keep your RV floors shining! A damp mop and mild cleaner do the trick—just avoid too much water.
Freshen and Deodorize Carpets
Mix baking soda with a few drops of essential oil (optional) and sprinkle over carpet. Let sit for 30 minutes before vacuuming. Store-bought carpet cleaners can also be used for spot cleaning.
Perry Mack
Give your RV carpets a fresh start — sprinkle baking soda (with a touch of essential oil, if you like) to lift odours, then vacuum clean. For a deeper refresh, a quick steam clean will bring carpets back to life and banish built-up dirt and stains.
Deep Clean Carpets
For a deeper refresh, rent or use a steam cleaner to shampoo carpets, removing dirt, stains, and odours.
Prevent Wear in Busy Areas
Place rugs or runners in entryways, kitchens, and hallways to reduce wear and simplify cleaning.
Perry Mack
Remember to clean the stairs as well.
Smooth Surfaces: Refreshing Counters, Cabinets, and Walls
Hard surfaces in an RV can accumulate grime, fingerprints, and scuff marks. Regular maintenance keeps them looking fresh.
Perry Mack
Ready to refresh the RV with a few simple supplies.
Clean Everyday Surfaces
Clean countertops, dining tables, and shelves with a microfiber cloth and non-abrasive cleaner. A DIY option is equal parts white vinegar and water, with a few drops of lemon essential oil.
Sanitize Frequently Touched Spots
Use disinfectant wipes or alcohol-based sprays on doorknobs, light switches, handles, and remotes to reduce germs.
Perry Mack
Wipe surfaces with a gentle cleaner, then sanitize handles and switches to keep your RV spotless.
Restore Shine to Wood Finishes
Apply a wood-safe polish or oil to cabinets, trim, or shelves to restore shine and condition wood.
Erase Marks and Surface Blemishes
Gently scrub marks with a Magic Eraser or a paste of baking soda and water. This works on walls, cabinets, and table edges.
Bonus Tips for a Fresher RV
Ventilate the Space
Open windows or vents to circulate fresh air, reduce odors, and lower humidity.
Add Natural Fragrance
Use an essential oil diffuser or simmer citrus peels and herbs on the stove for a natural scent.
Declutter Regularly
Remove unnecessary items before cleaning to make the space easier to refresh and maintain.
Refreshing fabrics, floors, and surfaces not only improves the overall appearance of an RV but also extends the lifespan of its interior. A well-maintained RV creates a cleaner and more comfortable environment, ready for future travel and adventures.