Hitting the Road? Why You Should Clean Your RV Pre-Trip

This article originally appeared on RVshare.com.

Naturally, you think of cleaning out your RV when you get home from a trip – unpacking clothes, vacuuming up crumbs, stripping the sheets off the bed. But are you also cleaning up before you hit the road, too?

Giving your rig a good pre-trip cleaning is helpful in several ways. It serves as a time to take inventory of what you need to pack for the trip, as well as spotting any repairs that need made. Overall, pre-trip cleaning is a way to start fresh and reduce stress. Today, we’ll walk you through some easy steps to make the start of your next adventure a breeze.

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You likely (hopefully!) did this when you got home from your last trip, but it’s a good idea to give the inside of your RV a quick clean before you hit the road. Dust and bugs (usually dead, RIP) can still accumulate, after all.

1. Open the windows to air out while you’re cleaning
2. Wipe down the fridge, stovetop, microwave, and kitchen counters
3. Clean the bathroom mirror, sink, shower, and toilet
4. Dust the steering wheel, dashboard, and control panels
5. Vacuum the floors, couches, seats, and beds

Related: 32 RV Tips For Laundry And Cleaning On The Road

While you’re cleaning, take inventory of anything you normally keep in your RV to clean or restock:

• Toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, toilet paper)
• Handsoap in kitchen and bathroom
• Dishes, serving items, cutlery
• Pots and pans
• Paper towels or cleaning cloths
• Linens (blankets, bedsheets, bath towels, hand towels)
• Pillows and pillowcases

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Again, you may have gotten the outside of your rig spotless upon your return home last time around. But depending on how long it’s been, there may be some exterior items to clean before you leave next.

1. Clean the interior and exterior of the windshield and all mirrors
2. Sweep off debris from the roof
3. Brush off the awning 
4. Review storage compartments

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There are also some exterior items you can check while you’re cleaning or during your annual maintenance check:

• Rugs or mats
• Grill
• Jacks
• Outdoor chairs and other furniture

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You probably already have all the cleaning supplies you need already stored in your RV. There’s really nothing fancy you need to dust and freshen up. In fact, you could get by with a basic all-purpose cleaner and window spray.

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Depending on the size of your RV, pre-trip cleaning could take you as little as 30 minutes, tops! Trust us, it’s worth it to spend this short amount of time getting your RV ready for your next trip.

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