RV Spring Cleaning Mistakes You Don’t Want to Make This Year

4/18/2025

by Terri Nighswonger

Few people say, “Hey, let’s clean the RV!” with any amount of enthusiasm. I don’t. I’d rather see my dentist—or better yet, head to my next adventure. For those of us whose RVs are stored most of the winter, a good spring cleaning is definitely in order before we head out.

However, don’t get in a big hurry. Do the job right with the right cleaners and you will have a beautiful, shiny rig that will last a long time. If you use the wrong stuff, you might have issues down the road. Come with me and let’s take a look at some spring cleaning mistakes you don’t want to make this year.

Cleaning Chemicals to Avoid

Here are some chemicals to avoid using in your RV.

• Bleach or bleach-based cleaners can dry out and crack rubber seals in your plumbing system and fade fabrics or surfaces.

• Abrasive powders or scrubbers can scratch fiberglass, enamel, and metal finishes.

• Strong chemical toilet bowl cleaners often damage the soft rubber seals in RV plumbing and black tanks.

• Household multi-surface cleaners may contain ingredients that strip protective coatings and leave behind a residue that’s hard to remove.

• Ammonia-based glass cleaners can damage window tints and seals over time.

• Acidic cleaners (like lemon juice or full-strength vinegar): While they’re natural, they can still eat away at certain surfaces like marble-look countertops, rubber seals, or polished finishes.

• Unverified DIY mixtures: Be careful with Pinterest potions. Not all homemade blends are RV-safe—especially those with vinegar, citrus, or baking soda when used in the wrong places.

other things to avoid

🚫High-pressure sprayers can cause damage if used too close to your rig. Use them for an initial rinse, but always maintain a safe distance. Spraying too close can force contaminants deeper into the paint, damage seals, or strip finishes—especially with narrow nozzles or high-pressure settings.

🚫Hard bristle brushes can damage the finish of your RV. Always choose soft-bristle brushes, microfiber mitts, or wash pads designed for washing vehicles. Microfiber towels are absorbent and gentle on the surface, reducing the risk of water spots and streaks.

🚫Don’t skip the rinse. Failing to rinse the RV thoroughly can leave behind soap residue on the surface, which can attract dirt and other debris.

🚫Washing in direct sunlight can seem good but should be avoided. Wash your RV in the early morning or late evening or pick a cloudy or overcast day to prevent uneven drying, damage to RV seals and surfaces, or water spots.

Areas You Might Miss When RV Spring Cleaning

Some spots just don’t scream “clean me”—but neglecting them can lead to problems down the road. Here are a few often-overlooked areas to give some extra attention:

A/C vents and vent fans

Dust and grime can collect quickly, especially after months in storage. Wipe down covers with a damp cloth, vacuum any loose debris, and make sure everything is completely dry before reassembling to prevent mold or mildew. Keeping these areas clean improves airflow and indoor air quality.

Wheels and Tires + Undercarriage

Brake dust, road grime, and even salt can build up on your wheels, tires, and undercarriage—especially if you’ve been parked near the ocean or on salted winter roads.

Rinse the undercarriage thoroughly to prevent rust, and consider using a corrosion-prevention spray designed for RVs.

Clean the wheels with a gentle wheel cleaner and soft brush, then apply a protective sealant to help repel future dirt.

Inspect the tires for signs of wear, cracks, or dry rot while you’re down there.

Awning and roof

Out of sight, out of mind—but both your roof and awning deserve attention.

For the roof, sweep off debris, clean around seals and seams, and check for signs of wear or water damage. If possible, store your RV under a cover or shelter to protect the roof from UV rays, weathering, and buildup from leaves or sap.

For the awning, use a mild soap or RV-safe fabric cleaner with a soft brush to remove dirt, mildew, and bird droppings. Always let it dry completely before retracting.

Safe cleaning Alternatives

• RV-specific cleaners are formulated to protect your rig’s finishes and systems—always a safe bet.

• Mild soap diluted in warm water works well for general cleaning.

• Diluted vinegar solutions (when used with care): Vinegar can be a great natural cleaner—just avoid using it on delicate surfaces or rubber. A 1:1 vinegar-water mix works well for glass and deodorizing, but always test first.

• Baking soda (as a deodorizer or mild abrasive) is safe for sinks or counters when used gently. Avoid scrubbing it into delicate surfaces.

• Hydrogen peroxide (3%) is a solid option for disinfecting surfaces without harsh fumes.

• Simple Green is biodegradable and safe for many surfaces—look for the version marked “Safe for Vehicles.”

• Pet and people-safe cleaners: Look for labels that specify non-toxic or plant-based. These are especially helpful in small spaces with pets and kids.

cleaning tools to consider

The right tools make cleaning your RV easier, safer, and way less frustrating. Here are some must-haves to keep on hand:

• Soft-bristle brushe are great for scrubbing without scratching—ideal for awnings, wheels, and exterior siding.

• Microfiber cloths & mitts are gentle on all surfaces, super absorbent, and perfect for wiping down glass, mirrors, and interiors without leaving lint or streaks.

• Sponges (non-abrasive) are good for sinks, counters, and general use—just skip the scratchy side unless it’s surface-safe.

• Swiffer Sweeper (wet or dry) are handy for cleaning floors in tight spaces or giving the rig a quick refresh between deeper cleanings.

• A steam mop (for tile or vinyl floors) is a great chemical-free option for sanitizing floors—just be sure your flooring type can handle the heat and moisture.

• A vacuum with attachments helps get into all those hard-to-reach corners, cushions, and pet-hair zones.

🐾 Keep Your Pets Safe When RV Spring Cleaning

Before you start scrubbing, move your pets to a safe space. I usually close mine in the bedroom while I clean the rest of the rig. You can also set them up in a campground-approved pet fence outside (with supervision, of course) or have your partner take them for a walk.

Stick with pet-safe cleaning products or gentle alternatives like diluted vinegar and baking soda—but only on surfaces where they’re safe to use. Harsh chemicals and strong fumes can be harmful if your pets touch, inhale, or lick residue. Always ventilate the RV well and let any fumes clear before bringing pets back in.

tips for Spring cleaning your RV

• Always read labels before using any product to ensure they are safe for your RV components.

• Choose soft tools such as soft sponges, microfiber cloths, and soft-bristle brushes to avoid scratching surfaces.

• Follow the instructions on the cleaning product label.

• Test an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t cause damage or discoloration.

• Rinse all surfaces thoroughly to prevent residue buildup.

• Ventilate well when using cleaning products, especially those with strong odors.

how do I begin Spring cleaning my RV

Like any dreaded task, it takes a little push to get started. For me, it helps that my spouse encourages us to do a weekly tidy-up. With pets in the mix, hair builds up fast in a small space. But once I’m in cleaning mode, it doesn’t take long before the rig feels fresh and we’re ready for our next adventure.

Here’s how to kick off your spring cleaning session inside your RV:

1. Start by decluttering
   Pick up anything on the floor or out of place. A quick tidy sets the stage and makes cleaning easier.

2. Vacuum or sweep thoroughly
   Get into corners, under furniture, and anywhere dust or pet hair hides.

3. Wipe down surfaces
   Use a damp cloth and mild detergent to clean walls, cabinets, drawers, and fixtures. For tougher spots, you can use a diluted vinegar solution—just avoid using it on delicate or rubberized surfaces.

4. Let the air in
   Open windows and vents to improve airflow, speed up drying, and help clear out any lingering odors or fumes.

5. Tackle soft surfaces
   Use an upholstery attachment to vacuum cushions and fabric surfaces, lifting out dust, crumbs, and fur.

6. Scrub the kitchen and bathroom fixtures
   A mild dish soap and water solution works well for sinks, faucets, and showerheads.

7. Disinfect high-touch zones
   Wipe down light switches, doorknobs, cabinet handles, and faucet levers with a disinfectant safe for your surfaces.

8. Shine your windows and mirrors
   Use a streak-free glass cleaner or a gentle vinegar-water mix with a microfiber cloth for best results.

Wrapping Up RV Spring Cleaning

Cleaning your RV might not be your favorite part of the camping season—but it’s more than just a chore. It’s a chance to inspect for leaks, cracks, and wear before they turn into costly repairs. It’s also the perfect time to reset your space and get everything feeling fresh and ready for the road.

Take it one section at a time, use the right tools and products, and don’t forget to enjoy the process just a little—especially once it’s done. With a clean, well-maintained rig, you’ll be ready for wherever your next adventure takes you.

If you would like to reserve a stay with us and enjoy the Williamston, Greenville, Washington and Eastern NC area please give us a call 252-943-1699 or visit our website: Treeside RV Park

To reserve a spot, give us a call 252-943-1699