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RV Post-Trip Cleaning Checklist

Aug. 4 2021 Maintenance By 1st Choice Trailers

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After a vacation, it's wise to clean your RV. This helps prevent messes from setting and gets your camper ready for the next trip.

Use the following RV post-trip cleaning checklist to keep track of all the various tasks. For more tips or to shop RVs for sale, visit 1st Choice Trailers. Our dealership is located in Goddard, Kansas, and we also serve Wichita.

1. Air Out the Camper

Before you start cleaning, open up all the windows and doors. The fresh air helps prevent the RV from feeling "stuffy" while you work.

2. Start a Load of Laundry

Gather up the towels, washcloths, and sheets. Toss them in the washer to get a head start on post-trip laundry. 

3. Tackle Any Perishables

To avoid pests and rotten smells:

  • Empty all the trash cans.
  • Remove perishable food in the refrigerator, freezer, and pantry.
  • Wash any used dishes.

4. Unpack the RV

Go through and remove items that don't stay in the camper post-trip.

This can include:

  • Electronics and their charging chords.
  • Toys.
  • Board games.
  • Clothing.
  • Toiletries.

5. Empty the RV Tanks

Consult the RV owner's manual for guidance, then clean and empty the holding tanks according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

6. Deep Clean the Bathroom

Most bathrooms merit a thorough cleaning post-trip. Sanitize the surfaces, clean the toilet, clean the shower curtain, and so on. This helps keep mold and mildew from growing in the bathroom.

7. Take Care of the Awning

If you used your RV awning during the trip, it may have gunk such as bird droppings or tree sap on it. Spray down the awning and wash it with soap to prevent these substances from turning into stains.

8. Vacuum

All the outdoor adventures during a vacation can result in dirt and dust inside the RV. Plus, meals and snacks can leave behind crumbs that can attract pests. Vacuum the floors and any upholstery to combat this mess.

9. Clean the Exterior

If your RV got covered in dust or mud, take a minute to wash the exterior. This prevents buildup that is harder to remove down the road. Use a gentle soap or an RV-dedicated soap to get the job done. Harsh chemicals can damage the camper.

This is also a great time to conduct a quick RV inspection. The sooner you can catch issues, the cheaper they will be to fix.

A post-trip inspection can include:

  • Checking the roof and window seals and resealing as needed.
  • Looking for signs of rust that need to be addressed.
  • Checking the tires for signs of damage or tread wear.
  • Checking the battery connections and cleaning as needed.

10. Put the RV in Storage

If your next vacation is weeks away, it's time to put the camper in storage. Close up the doors and windows. Park the RV in storage, ideally a covered space that offers protection from the weather.

Ready to shop RVs for sale? 1st Choice Trailers carries a range of models. We can help you find your perfect match, so reach out or stop by our dealership in Goddard, Kansas. We also serve those in Wichita, Kansas.