When you’re on the road, it can be tough to keep your RV neat and clean. Between foot traffic, frequent use of the kitchen and bathroom, the dirt and grime can take over fast. And nothing can spoil a great road trip faster than spilled milk, muddy footprints, or a pet accident.
For tackling daily maintenance and big messes, it helps to have a few essential cleaning tools on hand. Less can be more. You have limited space to store your cleaners and gadgets, so products that do double duty are your secret weapon.
Here are 10 must-have items for RV cleaning. With these on hand, even the biggest messes will be no match.
#1: Stick vacuum
Part hand-held vacuum, part upright, stick vacuums are workhorses. They are typically outfitted with multiple attachments, so you can dig into crevices for crumbs. The long handle makes cleaning floors a breeze (and doesn’t break your back). Get a rechargeable model so you don’t have to worry about plugging in when you use it. The best part? A stick vacuum tucks away neatly into a corner or under a bed.
#2: Multipurpose cleaner
All-in-one, multipurpose cleaners are a game changer, suitable for the kitchen, bathroom, windows, table tops, and almost any hard surface. With one versatile cleaner, you eliminate the need for glass, counter, wood, and bathroom sprays, saving money and storage space.
#3: Microfiber clothes
Soft, lint-free, and highly absorbent, microfiber clothes are more durable and economical than rolls of paper towels. Buy a package and keep them at the ready to mop up spills, wipe down surfaces and even messy hands and faces. When they’re dirty, wash them by hand and let them air dry, or throw them in the washing machine.
#4: Magic cleaning sponge
These little white sponges really are magic. Made from melamine foam, magic sponges activate with water and can remove the grimiest stains. Use them to clean marks and stubborn stains off walls and floors. They also work to clean shoes, luggage and sports equipment. Word of caution: Like any stain remover, it’s a good idea to test a small area before using the magic sponge all over.
#5: Antibacterial wipes
Sometimes, you need some hefty cleaning power, and antibacterial wipes are the answer. These individual, pre soaked wipes are perfect to clean kitchen counters, toilets, sinks, and any other germy area. They’re even safe on wood and leather upholstery.
#6: RV toilet cleaner
While most household cleaning products are suitable your RV, your toilet needs some special attention. Use a toilet bowl cleaner that is specifically formulated for RV toilets to protect the rubber seal and plastic bowl. An RV toilet cleaner is also designed to help keep odors at bay.
#7: Wet and dry mop
Who doesn’t love a two-in-one product? A wet and dry mop gives you options to keep your floors swept and sparkling. Use a dry microfiber cloth to sweep up crumbs and debris, and switch to a pre-soaked pad or spray pad to mop floors. Some mops come with cloths that you wash and reuse, while others use disposable pads for added convenience.
#8: Disposable gloves
When you’re cleaning, it’s nice to give your hands a break. Stash a box of disposable gloves under your sink for scrubbing toilets, changing out waste and water tanks, and even washing dishes. Your skin will thank you.
#9: Air freshener
Even the cleanest RV can get a little stinky, so keep air freshener on hand. For a natural option, place a few tablespoons of baking soda or white vinegar in a small bowl. If you need something more powerful, Lysol and Febreeze can do the job.
#10: A bucket or bin
Now that you’ve made your shopping list, don’t forget a bin or bucket to keep everything neat and organized. That way, when you need to start cleaning or clean up a mess, you’ll have supplies at hand.
With these products on board, you’ll be equipped to tackle messes and keep up your daily cleaning. A sparkling RV makes for a much more relaxing road trip.
Looking for a new or used RV? Shop more than 400 floor plans of new RVs and a wide variety of used RVs at RVDynasty.com or at 10001 S US Highway 31 in Bunker Hill.
