Getting Ready to Hit the Road? Don’t Forget to Clean Your RV Pre-Trip!

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.

Interior RV Cleaning

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 bathroom mirror, sink, shower, and toilet
4. Dust steering wheel, dashboard, and control panels
5. Vacuum floors, couches, seats, and beds

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

Exterior RV Cleaning

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

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

There are also some exterior items you can check while you’re cleaning:

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

RV Cleaning Supplies

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! You can find more tips on cleaning supplies here.

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

For more tips on cleaning and maintaining your RV, check out these posts:

• CDC COVID cleaning tips
• Annual RV maintenance
• Post cleaning checklist