Now that we’re coming out of Winter it’s time to start preparing for your next RV, campervan or caravan camping adventure. So, what do you want to do now? You want to make sure that your RV is ready for the road and having it ready for the road means having it nice, fresh and clean. One of the best ways to clean your camping abode is plain old white vinegar, and we’ve put together this guide on all the amazing things you can do to clean you RV, campervan or caravan with this simple, effective and inexpensive product.
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Now, vinegar is just an amazing product because you can use it for cleaning, you can use it for deodorising and sanitising, AND it’s non-toxic which is one of the great things about it.
So you don’t have any nasty smelling things. All you’ve got is white vinegar and you can buy it from any supermarket. It’s nice, easy and it’s super cheap.
This natural cleaning agent has been used for centuries to clean, disinfect, and deodorise, and it offers a multitude of benefits when used in your RV campervan or caravan (or just in your home). From removing stubborn mould to cleaning surfaces and neutralising odours, vinegar can be your go-to cleaning solution for a sparkling clean RV without breaking the bank.
Why Use Vinegar to Clean Your RV?
Vinegar is a versatile, non-toxic cleaner that is safe to use in a confined space like an RV or campervan. With the close quarters and shared spaces common in mobile living, it’s important to use cleaning products that won’t release harmful chemicals into the air. Vinegar is naturally derived from acetic acid, which is powerful enough to cut through grime, mould, and bacteria without posing any risks to your health or the environment. Here are a few reasons why vinegar is the perfect cleaning agent for your RV:
- Non-toxic: Vinegar is safe to use around children, pets, and people with allergies or sensitivities to chemicals found in traditional cleaning products.
- Inexpensive: Compared to commercial cleaners, vinegar is highly cost-effective and readily available.
- Deodorising: Vinegar naturally neutralises odours, leaving your RV smelling fresh and clean without the need for artificial fragrances.
- Eco-friendly: Vinegar is biodegradable and doesn’t contribute to harmful environmental waste, making it a green choice for cleaning.
- Multi-purpose: Vinegar can be used to clean a variety of surfaces and areas, including kitchens, bathrooms, and floors, eliminating the need for multiple products.
Removing Mould and Mildew
One of the most common issues RV owners face is the accumulation of mould and mildew, especially in damp or poorly ventilated areas like bathrooms and around windows.
Not only can mould create unpleasant odours, but it can also pose health risks if left unchecked. Vinegar is highly effective at killing mould and preventing its return, thanks to its anti-fungal and antibacterial properties.
How to Use Vinegar to Remove Mould
- Dilute: Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
- Spray: Spray the solution directly onto mouldy surfaces, such as bathroom walls, window seals, or inside cabinets.
- Let it sit: Allow the vinegar solution to sit for at least 30 minutes to penetrate and kill the mould.
- Scrub: Use a soft brush or cloth to scrub away any remaining mould residue.
- Rinse: Wipe the area down with clean water and a cloth to remove any remaining vinegar or mould spores.
For stubborn or recurring mould, you can use undiluted vinegar for extra strength. It’s also a good idea to wipe down these areas periodically with vinegar to prevent future mould growth, especially if your RV is stored in a humid environment.
Cleaning Kitchen Areas and Eating Surfaces
The kitchen is the heart of any RV, but cooking in a small space can lead to a buildup of grease, food particles, and odors. Vinegar is an excellent cleaner for kitchen areas, as it cuts through grease, disinfects surfaces, and leaves your eating and prep areas clean and safe.
How to Use Vinegar in the Kitchen
- Countertops and Cabinets: Spray a mixture of vinegar and water onto countertops, cabinets, and any other surfaces that accumulate grime from cooking. Wipe down with a clean cloth to remove grease and food particles.
- Sinks and Faucets: Vinegar can help remove hard water stains and mineral buildup around your kitchen sink. Spray undiluted vinegar on stubborn spots and allow it to sit for a few minutes before scrubbing with a sponge or brush.
- Appliances: Use vinegar to clean the interior of your microwave, refrigerator, and stove. Wipe down these surfaces with a vinegar solution to remove food splatters and odors.
- Eating Surfaces: Before and after meals, wipe down tables, countertops, and any eating surfaces with a solution of vinegar and water. This not only cleans but also sanitises the surfaces, keeping them free from bacteria and sticky residues.
An Important Note on Vinegar
While vinegar is safe for most kitchen surfaces, it should not be used on seasoned cast iron pans, pots, or Dutch ovens. Vinegar’s acidic nature can strip the seasoning from cast iron, which is essential for non-stick cooking and rust prevention. Stick to warm water and mild soap for cleaning your cast iron cookware.
Cleaning Bathrooms in Your RV
Bathrooms in RVs and campervans can easily become breeding grounds for bacteria, mildew, and unpleasant smells. Due to the small size of RV bathrooms, keeping these areas clean is essential for hygiene and comfort on the road. Vinegar is an ideal cleaner for RV bathrooms as it can tackle soap scum, hard water stains, and odours without the use of harsh chemicals.
How to Use Vinegar in the Bathroom
- Shower and Sink: Spray vinegar onto the walls and surfaces of the shower, tub, and sink to dissolve soap scum and mineral buildup. Let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe clean with a cloth or sponge.
- Toilet: Pour a cup of undiluted vinegar into the toilet bowl and let it sit for about 30 minutes before scrubbing with a toilet brush. This helps remove stains and deodorise the toilet without harsh chemicals.
- Mirrors and Glass: Use a mixture of vinegar and water to clean mirrors and glass shower doors. Vinegar leaves a streak-free shine and removes any water spots that may have accumulated.
- Deodorising: Place a small bowl of vinegar in the bathroom for a few hours to neutralise any lingering odours.
Cleaning Floors
Floors in an RV can quickly accumulate dirt, dust, and grime, especially if you’re traveling through dusty or muddy areas. Whether your RV has vinyl, tile, or laminate floors, vinegar is a safe and effective cleaner that can keep them looking their best.
How to Use Vinegar to Clean Floors
- Dilute: Mix 1/2 cup of vinegar with a gallon of warm water in a bucket.
- Mop: Dip a mop or cloth into the solution and wring it out well before mopping the floor.
- Dry: Allow the floor to air dry, or wipe it down with a clean towel if needed.
Vinegar effectively removes dirt and grime while leaving a subtle shine on the floor. It’s safe to use on most hard floor surfaces, but avoid using it on natural stone like marble or granite, as the acidity can cause damage.
With vinegar in your cleaning kit, you can keep your RV, motorhome, campervan or caravan in tip-top shape, ensuring that it’s always ready for your next journey.
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