Wash and go … our spring cleaning tips!

With the weather beginning to warm up and the October long weekend looming … now is the perfect time to do a bit of spring cleaning and maintenance on your caravan. Whilst our borders may be closed … we’re still able to explore NSW and all it has to offer.

These are our spring cleaning and maintenance tips to alleviate problems on your first spring outing:

Give your caravan a wash. Using car wash or mild detergent, a soft sponge, car wash brush or mop and garden hose … start from the top and work your way down just as you would a car. Take care around hatches, antennas, windows, solar panels, etc, not to damage seals, sealant and wiring ... or force water in.

Avoid high pressure washers. Pressure cleaners, with high pressure, can damage seals and force water into gaps or between aluminium sheeting.

Never stand on the roof of your caravan as it can damage the internal framework and cause the roof to sag … another problem that can cause leaks. If you must get onto the roof of your caravan use an aluminium builder’s plank that goes from side to side.

When using a ladder ensure it cannot fall against the side of the caravan. Lay it down when not in use in the event of a wind gust that launches your ladder into the side of your caravan with force.

Whilst you’re washing your caravan check for leaks, mould and mildew.

Dry with a chamois to eliminate streaks and water marks.

Give your windows a clean with glass cleaner and a microfibre cloth. Also wipe seals with a wet cloth to remove any dirt and dust.

Microfibre is your caravan’s best friend ... they're soft and can reduce the amount of chemicals needed for cleaning. 

Remember … always use purpose designed chemicals on your caravan to prevent damage to materials including rubber, plastics, canvas, vinyl and upholstery. If your caravan has a pop-top roof or awning with canvas, be careful and avoid using chemicals or soaps on the fabric, as they may damage the canvas.

Check your slide-out seals. If you’re the owner of a caravan or motorhome with a slide-out check the condition of your seals and consider applying rubber seal conditioner to ensure they don’t become brittle and crack. Preventative maintenance of seals is necessary to prevent leaks and deterioration further down the sun-scorched track.

Give the inside a good vacuum and clean as you would your own home … your home on wheels will be much more enjoyable when it’s clean and clutter free.

If you’re fortunate enough to have a beautiful day when cleaning your pride and joy … leave it open for a few hours to remove any musty smells from being closed up.

Enjoy the smell of spring.

Give your water tanks a flush. This will prevent problem-causing bacteria building up in pipes, valves and strainers.

Whilst you’re going consider doing the following maintenance checks:

Tyres … check condition and tyre pressure

Brakes, Bearings and Springs … inspect for wear and tear

Lights … hook up your vehicle and check indicators, brake lights and side markers

Hitch … is clean, greased and secure

Internal & External Lights … check they’re working and no bulbs need replacing

Appliances … check fridge, oven, air conditioner, etc are working correctly

Hot Water System ... check it's working and doesn't need a new anode

Gas Bottles … are filled and are ready for action

Smoke Alarm … check and replace battery if necessary

Batteries … where fitted … check batteries for 12V system, break away systems, etc

Other accessories … check solar panels are charging and other accessories that are fitted to your caravan are working as expected.

Whilst this may seem like a lot of work … it is far easier to do this at home before you leave on your trip rather than trying to do adhoc repairs on the road.

Enjoy your travels! #letsgocaravanning