Tag Archives: RV cleaning tips

RV Kitchen Cleaning 101

21 Tuesday Mar 2023

Posted by in RV Information, RV Newbie, Tips & Tricks

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A Step-by-Step Guide to Deep Cleaning Your RV’s Kitchen Area

As an RVer, you know the kitchen area is one of the most important spaces in your home on the road. It’s where you cook, eat, and gather with loved ones, so keeping it clean and well-maintained is essential. While regular cleaning is necessary, deep cleaning your RV kitchen area periodically ensures a healthy and pleasant living environment. In this article, we’ll provide you with some tips and tricks to help you deep clean your RV kitchen area.

The Importance of Deep Cleaning Your RV Kitchen

The importance of deep cleaning your RV kitchen area cannot be overstated. Not only does it keep your space clean and organized, but it also promotes a healthy and safe living environment for you and your loved ones. Over time, dirt, bacteria, and other contaminants can accumulate in your kitchen area, which can lead to unpleasant odors, foodborne illness, and other health issues.

Deep cleaning is also a critical part of maintaining the integrity of your RV and ensuring that you catch any potential issues before they become bigger problems. A deep clean can help you identify water leaks, mold or mildew growth, and other types of damage that can cause serious problems down the road. By addressing these issues early on, you can save yourself time, money, and headaches in the long run.

With that said, let’s dive into some tips and tricks to help you deep clean your RV kitchen area.

Clear Out the Clutter

Before you begin deep cleaning your RV kitchen area, it’s essential to clear out any clutter that may have accumulated over time. Start by emptying all of your cabinets, drawers, and pantry shelves. Discard any expired or spoiled food, and donate any items that you no longer need. Once you’ve cleared the clutter, you’ll have more space to work with when cleaning your RV kitchen area.

Clean the Cabinets and Shelves

It’s time to focus on the cabinets and shelves in your RV kitchen area. Begin by wiping down the interior of your cabinets and shelves with a damp cloth or sponge. You can use a mild detergent to remove stubborn stains or dirt. Remember to clean the handles of your cabinets and drawers, as they can accumulate dirt and grease over time.

Scrub the Sink and Countertops

The sink and countertops in your RV kitchen area can accumulate a lot of dirt and grime over time. To clean the sink, start by pouring a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes, then scrub the sink with a non-abrasive cleaner and rinse thoroughly.

Use a mild detergent and a non-scratch scrubber for the countertops to remove any dirt or stains. Don’t forget to wipe down the edges of your countertops and sink, as they can collect crumbs and other debris.

Clean the Appliances

Your RV’s kitchen appliances, such as your refrigerator, stove, and microwave, also require periodic deep cleaning. Begin by emptying your refrigerator and wiping down the shelves and interior with a mild detergent. Use a mixture of baking soda and water to clean the door gasket, as this can accumulate dirt and bacteria.

Use a non-abrasive cleaner and a scrubber to remove any grime or food residue from the stove and oven.

For the microwave, place a bowl of water with a few tablespoons of vinegar inside and heat for a few minutes. This will help loosen any food residue and make it easier to wipe down the interior. Remove the turntable and wipe down the inside of the microwave with a damp cloth. Use a microwave-safe cleaning solution to remove any stubborn stains.

Scrub the Stove Vent

The stove vent can accumulate grease and dirt over time, which can become a fire hazard. To clean the vent, remove the filter and soak it in warm, soapy water. Scrub the filter with a brush or sponge to remove any grease or dirt, then rinse it thoroughly with water and allow it to air dry. If the vent itself is dirty, you can use a non-abrasive cleaner and a scrubber to remove any grime or residue.

Clean the Floors

Finally, it’s time to clean the floors in your RV kitchen area. Start by sweeping or vacuuming the floor to remove any loose dirt and debris. Next, mop the floor with a mild detergent and warm water. If you have stubborn stains, you can use a non-abrasive cleaner and a scrubber to remove them.

Additional Tips to Keep in Mind

  • Clean the overhead vents and fans to remove any dust or debris that may have accumulated. This can improve the air quality in your RV and prevent any potential issues with the ventilation system.
  • Remove the floor vent covers and vacuum the inside of the vent to remove any dust, dirt, or debris that may have accumulated. You can also use a damp cloth to wipe down the covers.
  • Wipe down the ceiling, walls, windows, and mirrors with a natural cleaning solution.
  • Vacuum the blinds and curtains to remove any dust or dirt. If necessary, remove them and wash them in the washing machine.
  • Wipe down the window sills and frames with a damp cloth to remove dust or dirt. Use a toothbrush to get into any crevices or corners.
  • Vacuum all the kitchen/dining area upholstery. Use a fabric cleaner to remove any stains or odors.
  • Use natural cleaning products instead of harsh chemicals, as they can be better for you, the environment, and your RV.
  • Check the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and replace them if necessary.
  • Remove the light fixtures and wipe them down. Replace any burnt-out bulbs.

Keeping your RV kitchen area clean and well-maintained is essential for a healthy and pleasant living environment. By following these tips and tricks, you can deep clean your RV kitchen area periodically and ensure it’s ready for your next adventure!

About The Author: Natalie Henley

Natalie Henley is a freelance writer and has also been full-time RVing with her husband and pets since 2015. She covers a wide range of topics, including RV lifestyle, RVing tips, DIY projects, RV news, and more. You can follow their adventures and RV-related tips on their blog, henleyshappytrails.com, as well as their YouTube Channel, also called Henley’s Happy Trails. In addition, she writes for various RV-related blogs and marketing outlets and is the co-author of Seasonal Workamping for a Living: How We Did It, available on Amazon.

Mark L. ~ “The follow-up from Coach-Net was exceptional! Everyone was helpful, friendly, and efficient!”

How To Properly Wash Your RV

24 Tuesday Nov 2020

Posted by in RV Newbie, Tips & Tricks

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How To Properly Wash Your RV

Keep your RV looking its best with a thorough exterior cleaning in-between travel time, outdoor adventures, and overnight stays. Unless you enjoy washing vehicles as a pastime, this task may feel more like a grueling chore. However, with the right tools, a little know-how, and a bit of pre-planning, washing your RV will become a hassle-free part of your maintenance plan.

Why should you wash your RV?

Sure, it’s important to keep up appearances as you drive your RV down the road or keep it stored in your driveway. On the other hand, there are many reasons why it is a good idea to wash your RV that delve deeper than aesthetic appeal.

  1. A little dirt and grime on your RV’s exterior may not seem like such a big deal, but when debris is caked on for an extended period, this can weaken the protective coating and accelerate the weathered look.
  2. Part of the process of washing your RV includes initially inspecting it for any potential repairs. Since you will be using a copious amount of water to do the cleaning, it’s critical to inspect seals around seams, vents, and windows. These should be watertight.
  3. Even though driving thru an automatic truck or RV wash station would be the most convenient option, it isn’t necessarily the most affordable one. Although your initial purchase of tools may be costly, the investment will pay for itself and then some as you continue to wash your rig regularly.

How often should you wash your RV?

Gander Outdoors suggests, “If you use your RV all the time and it gets dirty frequently, then you might need to wash it once a month. If you only use your RV a few times a year and store it in a relatively clean place, then you can probably get by cleaning it a couple of times a year.”

Man Washing RV

Ultimately, they explain, the number of times an RV is cleaned depends on how it is used and stored. An RV stored outside in the elements will need more frequent cleaning than an RV stored indoors. Whatever the situation, plan a cleaning schedule and regime and stick to it.

What tools will you need?

The following items are the basic tools needed to start the job:

  • large bucket
  • microfiber towels and/or sponges
  • brushes with adjustable handles
  • window cleaner with water/debris repellant like Rain-X
  • cleaning /conditioning products based on those recommended by the owner’s manual
  • hose with water supply
  • ladder

Regarding cleaner, it’s best to consult your RV manual as RV surfaces differ. Some products can be too abrasive on materials like aluminum and stainless metals. In general, painted metal-clad RVs can be washed using standard car wash chemicals. Good quality RV wash-and-wax products are recommended for fiberglass RVs.

What about using a pressure washer? In short, pressure washing should be left to the professionals.  Jerry Smith of Trailer Life explains the downsides of using a pressure washer. “High-pressure water can blow right past gaskets, silicone seals, and the overlap of sliding windows. It can also peel decals off with frightening efficiency. Don’t use more pressure than a garden hose with a sprayer can generate, and let a brush do the job of freeing up the dirt.”

Washing your RV: Step by Step

Step One: The Cleaning Space

Water DrainRegardless if you are washing a trailer, fifth wheel, or motorhome, step one is to assess and make any necessary changes to your cleaning area. Make sure you have adequate drainage. Park on a relatively flat surface since you will be climbing up and down a ladder. Plus, close all vents, windows, and doors tightly to prevent any water from entering the unit.

Step Two: The Roof

Start on the top. Don’t do double the work by starting on the sides and then moving to the roof. You’ll have to rewash the sides with any roof runoff. Let gravity do its thing. While on top, take time to inspect all seals around vents and seams. Depending on the condition of the roof, if there are touch-ups or complete repairs needed, complete those projects before tackling a wash.

Washing RV Roof

After the troubleshooting, get busy washing the roof. Based on your RV manual, use the proper cleaning product for the roof material. Instead of standing on top with a soapy, slippery mess, use your ladder and extendable brush to safely scrub the surface from a distance.

Step Three: Sides, Slides, and Windows

Now it’s time to tackle the sides of your RV. Again, depending on the surface, use the appropriate cleaning products and, if applicable, conditioning/waxing products. Use your brush, washcloths, and or sponges to wipe off built-on dirt and rinse.

Don Bobbitt of Axle Addict mentions, “RVs have gaskets around the windows, and also those flexible weather sealing gaskets around the slides. You should typically use a silicone-based spray cleaner and protectant on these gaskets. This will keep them supple and reduce the hardening effects of the sun. As always, though, you should consult your owner’s manual on the proper way to clean and preserve these gaskets.”

Ensure that your next road trip goes off without a hitch by wiping down and applying Rain-X. Rain-X provides a layer of protection, shielding against rain, snow, and sleet, along with bugs and other debris that splatters on the windshield. This helps immensely with all-around visibility.

Step Four: The Awning

An awning can become a breeding ground for mold and mildew since it is rolled up most of the time. Representatives of Home Depot advise using mild laundry detergent and lukewarm water or fabric cleaner for canvas awnings. To clean metal awnings, they suggest using a metal cleaning solvent and water.

Peruse any RV forum on suggestions for awning cleaning solutions, and you will find a myriad of tried and true methods. The following article from Camper Smarts lists nine products that have been used to clean RV awnings. Among the products mentioned are Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, Awesome, and vinegar/water combination.

Step Five: Tires and Rims

RV Tire WashingJust like with the RV’s surface, use a cleaner that is meant to be used with the type of tire rim. Cleaning tires is altogether a different story as some products do more harm than good to the rubber. Using a mild detergent is the safest route. In addition to washing the rims and tires, use this time to thoroughly inspect your tires for wear and tear.

Step Six: The Underbelly

The last section, and the most often ignored part, is the underbelly of the RV. Again, unless you are very familiar with using a pressure washer, avoid using it. Poor handling of the equipment could mean potential water damage and costly repairs. Depending on the severity of the filth, a simple spray down with a water hose and degreaser can do wonders. Once dry, some RVers choose to spray on rust-proofing products.

What if you can’t wash your RV where you are parked?

If you are a frequent traveler or full-time RVer, finding a place to wash your RV can be next to impossible.  Many campgrounds do not allow this practice, so utilizing waterless cleaners or coming up with creative ways to minimize water use may come into play.

WinnebagoLife contributor Kenny Phillips sheds some light on this very grimy subject in the video below. He describes his method for washing his motorhome with little to no water.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L8V1PbCMXpA

The Dirty Truth About Keeping Your RV Clean

RV WashOpting to wash your RV regularly keeps your home-on-wheels looking its best. It can also help prevent unnecessary water damage or other disasters since you are inspecting the condition of the RV multiple times a year.  The dirty truth about keeping your RV clean is simple.  Be good to your rig, and you will reap many more miles and adventures than you could possibly handle!

About The Author: Natalie Henley and her husband, Levi, have been full-time RVers for over 5 years.  They have also been Coach-Net customers for the same amount of time.  They travel and work camp around the U.S. in their 26-foot Itasca Sunstar motorhome with their two cats.  They write for multiple RV-related publications and recently co-wrote “Seasonal Workamping for a Living: How We Did It.” You can follow their adventures on the road at henleyshappytrails.com.

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Kathleen D. ~ “All the phone agents I’ve spoken with at Coach-Net have always been very helpful, they really do care. We accidentally left our RV electrical hooked up to our truck for too long and it killed our truck battery. Coach-Net was great; they came out and kick-started our truck. No more problems :-)” 

Tips For Cleaning Your RV Windows

29 Wednesday Apr 2020

Posted by in RV Newbie, Tips & Tricks

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Tips For Cleaning RV Windows

Spring is here, and that means it’s time to pull the RV out of storage and get it cleaned up in anticipation of camping season. Floors will need a good scrubbing, mattresses need turning, and the outside of the rig is sure to need a good wash.

One other important task? Cleaning your RV windows.

While RV window cleaning might seem straightforward enough, there are a few things you should know in order to make your cleaning session as easy and effective as possible. Below are our favorite tips for doing just that.

Start with a Good Cleaning Product

Cleaning Supplies

For starters, you’re going to want to find a good cleaning product. There are a few awesome choices out there, and you will want to consider a few different factors in order to determine which is best for you.

Windex Outdoors

We love Windex Outdoors for cutting through dirt and grime and helping us clean those hard-to-reach places. The cleaner is actually sprayed onto the windows using a water hose, and is intended to be rinsed rather than wiped away, meaning you may not even need to break out a ladder!

That said, it does leave streaks down the sides of your RV and won’t remove stubborn spots.

Invisible Glass Cleaner

We also really love Invisible Glass Cleaner. This can be used on the interior or exterior of your windows and easily cuts through dirt, bugs, and grime. It consistently leaves a beautiful, streak-free shine, and works well on both motorhomes and travel trailers.

ProtectAll™

Those with pop-up campers will need to choose a different product from those with other types of campers. This is where ProtectAll vinyl cleaner comes into play. This stuff works well on all of the vinyl found on pop-up campers, including the windows.

Invest in the Proper Tools

Besides a good cleaning solution, you will also need the right set of tools to get the job done well. Sure, you could just whip out a roll of paper towels and make those work for you, but doing so will almost certainly make your job harder than it has to be (and it can be wasteful).

Water Hose

Instead, invest a bit of time and money into the following items to help you reach high places and leave a streak-free shine:

Choose The Time Wisely

It might seem logical to get outside and clean the windows while the sun is shining. Unfortunately, this isn’t necessarily true. Bright sunlight and hot, dry weather can cause cleaner to dry too quickly, meaning you won’t be able to wipe surfaces down properly, thus leaving you with streaks and dirty spots.

Chose The Time Wisely

For this reason, choosing a nice day with warm—but not overly hot!—weather is best, and morning or early evening is better than mid-day.

Be Thorough

Sometimes it’s tempting to rush through cleaning the windows. However, a rushed job is rarely a good one, and zipping through this particular task might leave your RV looking a bit shabbier than you’d like. For this reason, it’s best to take your time and be thorough.

Here are some steps you’ll want to take to be sure you do the best job possible:

  • Remove the screens. Screens get in the way of cleaning the interiors of your windows and can trap bugs and debris. Remove them to ensure you get every part of the window nice and clean.
  • Clean the frame. RV window frames are notorious for catching dust, bugs, and other small things and holding them there. Therefore, it’s important that RV owners go over the inside lip of each frame with a damp cloth in order to remove unwanted dirt.
  • Start with a spray. When cleaning the outside of your windows, start with a spray-down with the garden hose and that spray attachment we mentioned. This will remove the worst of the dirt and help loosen stubborn spots. That said, it will also leave streaks down the sides of your RV, so be prepared to wash the entire rig.

Finish It Off Right

Cleaning RV WindowsAfter washing your windows, we highly recommend finishing off the job with a coat of Rain-X. This stuff will help keep the windows and windshield of your driveable RV nice and clear during a rainstorm. It will also help protect the windows, discouraging debris from sticking to them and making your job a little easier next time around.

Just make sure your RV windows are true glass before applying this in order to avoid damage!

About the author: Chelsea Gonzales

Chelsea has the amazing opportunity to take part in full-time RV living and traveling with her tiny tribe. She homeschools her five-year-old son as they travel, and takes full advantage of their unique situation by using the entire world as her son’s classroom. A group of total Disney fanatics, Chelsea and her family often find themselves in the Orlando area in order to visit the Disney parks, but they have also visited over 25 of the 50 states with plans to see many more along the way. No matter where her travels take her, Chelsea enjoys riding bikes, gazing at beautiful sunsets, finding new coffee shops, Irish dancing, and sitting around a campfire with her family.

You can join her adventures through her blog, Wonder Wherever We Wander.

RV ProtectGeorge N. ~ “Having this service through Coach-Net was AWESOME when our RV would not start even though it was still in storage. It’s the peace of mind that we have help when we really need it.”

Keeping Your RV Floors Clean

10 Tuesday Mar 2020

Posted by in RV Information, Tips & Tricks

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Keeping Your RV Floors Clean

In my opinion, one of the most annoying things about RVing is trying to keep the floors clean. Staying in sandy or muddy campgrounds means lots of debris gets tracked in, and in such a small space, it all accumulates pretty quickly. This can result in multiple sweeping sessions each day, and using time—that would otherwise be spent exploring together—cleaning the floors yet again so we don’t have to return home or wake up to that gritty feeling under our feet.

Fortunately, there are ways around this problem. After living in an RV for several years, I’ve come across a few different tricks. Here are my favorites.

Get an Outdoor Rug

Believe it or not, laying a large outdoor rug just outside of your door can be extremely helpful. The fact that you’ll have to walk on the rug before entering your home-on-wheels means that at least some dirt will be wiped away.

Additionally, having a rug there when you just need to step outside for a second removes the need to walk in the dirt or grass, meaning you won’t be tracking anything back in.

Kick-Off Those Shoes

Kick Your Shoes Off Outside

Of course, taking your shoes off at the door also means a lot less debris gets tracked inside. I recommend setting up some sort of shoe cubby or storage bin, either just inside the door or outside (make sure it’s covered and watertight).

Encourage everyone who enters your home to remove their shoes and place them in the storage area. Eventually, it’ll become second nature for your family, and you’ll see much less dirt on your floors.

Stay Outside

One of the best things about RVing is the fact that you can spend so much time outdoors and exploring nature. Why not take full advantage of this and spend as much time as possible outdoors? Doing so has many benefits, and one side bonus is having cleaner floors. After all, if you aren’t walking in and out of the RV all day, the floors won’t get dirty, right?

Stay Outside

Fill the outdoor fridge with food, and take a cooler full of drinks and a grill out with you in the morning. You might just find you don’t have any need to go back inside all day long.

Toss Out Those Carpets

RV carpets are dirt and dust collectors. I honestly can’t imagine who thought it was a good idea to put carpet in a vehicle meant for camping because it was anything but. If your RV has carpets, I highly recommend removing them and laying down hard flooring instead. While your hard floors will still get dirty, they won’t hold onto the dirt in the same way carpet does.

If you can’t remove your carpets, at least invest in a good quality vacuum cleaner and make a point of shampooing the carpets at the end of each season. This vacuum does a nice job of pulling dirt out of the carpets.

Sweep Daily

Sure, the goal is to reduce the number of sweeping sessions you do, but that doesn’t mean you should neglect to sweep entirely. Debris will still build up on your floors, especially when staying somewhere like the beach. Sweep it up at the end of each day to avoid allowing it to build up.

Sweep Your RV Daily

Choosing to put the sweeping off will likely result in the need for more regular mopping sessions, and we all know how time-consuming that can be.

Clearly, there’s no way to keep your RV floors spotless all the time. Camping means spending time outdoors, and time outdoors means dirt. However, these tips should at least help you keep the sand and dirt on your floors to a reasonable level so you can spend time focusing on more important things during your camping adventures.

About the author: Chelsea Gonzales

Chelsea has the amazing opportunity to take part in full-time RV living and traveling with her tiny tribe. She homeschools her five-year-old son as they travel, and takes full advantage of their unique situation by using the entire world as her son’s classroom. A group of total Disney fanatics, Chelsea and her family often find themselves in the Orlando area in order to visit the Disney parks, but they have also visited over 25 of the 50 states with plans to see many more along the way. No matter where her travels take her, Chelsea enjoys riding bikes, gazing at beautiful sunsets, finding new coffee shops, Irish dancing, and sitting around a campfire with her family.

You can join her adventures through her blog, Wonder Wherever We Wander.

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Green Cleaning Solutions For Your RV

18 Wednesday Dec 2019

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Green Cleaning For Your RV

Green Cleaning Solutions For Your RV

RV ownership is more popular than ever — over nine million families in the U.S. currently own one, the RV Industry Association reports. Keeping your RV interiors nice and clean is an important part of ownership. Dirt gets tracked in by shoes, dust blows in through open windows, and general grime quickly accumulates on bathroom and kitchen surfaces. Fortunately, there are several eco-friendly cleaning solutions that can keep your RV clean while minimizing your environmental impact.

Green cleaning products

Conventional cleaning products are certainly effective, but they’re full of synthetic chemicals that harm the environment and human health. In particular, volatile organic compounds, phosphorus, nitrogen, and ammonia are commonly found in the household cleaners typically used to clean RVs. These chemicals are some of the worst pollutants of water and air, as identified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. You can eliminate these chemicals from your cleaning routine by making your own natural cleaning products. Natural ingredients are better for the environment and just as effective as conventional cleaners.

Green Cleaning Products

For example, a DIY paste of baking soda, vinegar, and water can be used to clean your counters, stove, and bathroom. Vinegar and water can also be used to clean glass and mirrors. Using a minimal number of multi-purpose natural ingredients is cheaper, simplifies your cleaning routine, and takes up less space in your RV.

Robot vacuums

Even if you already have a comprehensive central vacuum system for your RV, a secondary robot vacuum is essential for those times when you’re low on time, energy, or power required to operate the central vac. A robot vacuum can effortlessly navigate your RV to vacuum the floors for you — no matter what type of floor surface you have. Smart models can connect to the Wi-Fi, which means you can control it with voice commands or smartphone apps from any location. Many models are also specifically designed to get into the tight corners and hard-to-reach areas you typically find in RVs. Robot vacuums are also eco-friendly because they’re battery-powered, which means they end up using less energy than regular plug-in cleaners.

Robot Vacuum

Robot mops

A good mop is essential for cleaning any wood, tile, and laminate floors in your RV. In particular, robot mops are a new technology that simplifies cleaning your floors greatly. They’re fitted with cutting-edge sensors able to navigate your RV and mop your floor for you. Getting around compact spaces and tight corners is no problem for robot mops. They’re also able to precisely spray cleaning solution onto the floor while taking care not to hit your furniture. If you have a robot mop with a Wi-Fi connection, you’ll be able to set the mop’s route and schedule with an app on your smartphone. Many models of robot mop are also eco-friendly — look for ones that use reusable cleaning pads. They’re also very efficient cleaners, which use up to 80% less water than conventional mops.

Robot Mop

Eco-friendly doormats

Investing in a good-quality doormat for your RV is a simple yet effective solution to keep dirt and mud at bay. It’ll also lessen the amount of time you spend vacuuming and mopping the floors. Look for a mat made from eco-friendly materials like recycled rubber, natural jute, or coconut fibers. Once it wears out, it’ll biodegrade, which is much better for the environment. Remember to also regularly vacuum your mat front and back. Additionally vacuuming the back of the mat helps dislodge any dirt embedded on the front.

Keeping your RV clean doesn’t have to be expensive, labor-intensive, or involve strong chemicals. With these smart eco-friendly products and devices, you can keep your RV floors and surfaces clean with minimal time and effort.

About the author: Ali Walker

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Simple Ways to Keep the Air in Your RV Clean

06 Wednesday Nov 2019

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Simple Ways to Keep the Air in Your RV Clean

With more than 141 million Americans breathing unhealthy air every single day, it’s clear that pollution has become a nationwide issue. With that said, it’s more important than ever that we keep the air in our RV’s as clean and pure as possible in order to protect against illness. No matter where you’re heading, keeping the air clean when on the road doesn’t have to be difficult – especially with these simple methods.

Avoiding mold

Along with dust and the dreaded pet dander, mold spores and growth can also prevent the air in your RV from being the cleanest. One of the best things you can do is to to avoid mold altogether, as it can easily trigger allergies and other respiratory issues – not to mention make your RV smell unpleasant. For that reason, proper ventilation is a must in order to prevent the creation of a damp environment that mold thrives in. In an RV, this means opening windows, using an air purifier, and even running the air conditioner, which can work to remove water-soluble air contaminants.

Natural remedies

RV PlantsWhile air purifiers can do the job, other natural remedies may work just as well. For example, bringing houseplants into the space can be an excellent all-natural way of boosting the air quality in your RV. In fact, using indoor plants offers benefits that you can’t get with other store-bought systems. For example, not only can plants absorb pollutants, but they may also be able to restore the air quality as well. Going with a natural remedy for controlling the air quality in your RV can bring other benefits too, as they can be a more cost-effective alternative to other indoor air quality systems on the market since only simple upkeep is needed – and they make a great ornamental piece.

Keeping pollution out

It’s important to realize that keeping pollutants out of your RV can play a key role in keeping the air clean. Smoking, for instance, can pose a major threat to the air quality in your RV. In fact, cigarette smoke produces a shocking 10 times more air pollution than that of diesel exhaust. That said, if you smoke, you’re better off lighting up elsewhere – especially when cigarette smoke has the potential to cling to furniture, fabrics, and other fixtures in your RV. However, cigarette smoke isn’t the only preventable pollutant to the air quality in an RV, as cleaning products may also be harmful.

Hazardous Cleaning Material

Harsh cleaning products may do their job well, though can leave behind a strong odor and varying consequences in regards to air quality. Chemical exposure from such products – even aerosol air fresheners – can cause a wide variety of health issues like eye and respiratory irritation, especially when used in a small space like an RV. To avoid these effects, using all-natural cleaning products while keeping your RV properly ventilated can provide a practical solution.

With pollution being a major factor in health and wellness, keeping the air clean in your RV is an absolute must, especially if you spend a lot of time in it. For that reason, taking the proper precautions, such as avoiding mold and the use of harsh cleaning products, you can ensure that the air quality in your RV is as clean and pure as possible.

About the author: Ali Walker

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Linda S. ~ “This was such a pleasurable experience! Such an easy process and everyone was so helpful! Thank you!”

RV Washers And Dryers

08 Wednesday May 2019

Posted by in Kids and Camping, Tips & Tricks

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RV Washer and Dryer

Unless you are lucky enough to custom order your new RV from the factory, chances are it has some amenities you don’t need. When we purchased our first diesel pusher, it included the last thing we would ever want in a motorhome… or so we thought.

Enter the RV washer/dryer; it sat in one of the RV closets taking up valuable space that could otherwise be used to store clothes, linens, tools, or what-have-you, and we were not impressed.

Here we are, several years later, and we are true converts. While it is true that the unit is large, heavy, and takes up significant space, this is a small price to pay for the convenience a washer/dryer offers. It has really become a “must-have” go-to appliance in the years since.

Toddler In Mud

We travel with two teenagers and two pets, and my eldest daughter has a two-year-old, and he is sure to be traveling with us soon as well, so the washer/dryer has become a lifesaver. We now take the appliance for granted, and certainly noticed its absence when we had one RV that did not have one. Our current RV has this essential appliance and it is unlikely we would be without one if and when we purchase a new RV in the future. If you’ve never considered a washer/dryer to be a factor in your RV purchasing decision, here are some thoughts that may affect your decision:

  • You don’t have to turn around after leaving an RV park because you left a load of laundry in the dryer (yes this has happened).
  • You won’t have to scrounge for change in order to wash your clothes
  • You won’t have to purchase single-use wash detergent every time you need to do a load of laundry.
  • It’s very easy to do laundry after kids and pets get things dirty.
  • The space taken up by the washer/dryer may be compensated for by the fact you can pack fewer clothes and linens due to the convenience of onboard laundry.
  • Individuals who may have soap sensitivities don’t have to worry about residual detergent in the commercial public machines.
  • You don’t have to worry about changing your loads of laundry over between the public washers and dryers or leaving them in the machines while you are out, especially if the laundry facilities are busy and/or they close at night. This is especially relevant if you are out sightseeing and won’t be back to the park to switch your laundry.
  • The sheer convenience of being able to do laundry where and when you want

There are some other things to think about when considering an RV washer/dryer:

washer

  • While combo units such as ours are the most convenient, the wash load capacity is generally larger than the drying capacity. The easiest workaround for this is simply to wash smaller loads
  • You can opt for a separate washer and dryer units, but they take up more space and you will have to change your laundry over manually. This is not a major inconvenience for most people.
  • You can also opt for vented or ventless dryers. The latter is used in RVs that can’t easily support a vent installed on the outside of the coach. Ventless dryers take longer to dry the laundry and consume more water.
  • There are other options for washing clothes in an RV as well, such as washers that utilize the RV shower, as well as manually hand-cranked units. These are handy for the budget-conscious RV owner.

In summary, we have found that our washer/dryer has become an essential appliance in our motorhome, and the extra space it takes up is a small price to pay for the convenience it provides on the road. If you haven’t considered this appliance, or if you have previously dismissed it as an option, I highly recommend giving it another look.

 

About the author: Steve Froese

Steve Froese, an avid RV owner, traveler, and Coach-Net member since 2013, is the principal of “A Word to the Wise Technical Communications”, a published RV author, certified RV technician, and licensed Professional Engineer. He frequently collaborates with the “RV Doctor”, Gary Bunzer, and has worked with the RVIA/RVDA as a technical and training writer and consultant. Professionally, he works as a quality engineer and musician. Watch for more of Steve’s work in upcoming Coach-Net publications.

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Patricia H.~ “Superior service any time I have needed it. No ID or signing things in the freezing cold. The Tech stayed until the it was safe! I love your hassle free, unmatchable service! Thank you!”  

5 Great Ways to Filter Water While Camping

09 Friday Nov 2018

Posted by in RV Information, Tips & Tricks

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5 Ways To Filter Water While Camping

It’s no secret that campgrounds very rarely have good water. Sure, most of it is probably safe to drink, but rarely do we come across campground water that tastes great, and sometimes it’s even stinky or discolored. For this reason, most seasoned RVers use some sort of filtration system.

Picking up an RV water filter sounds easy enough, right? Unfortunately, it requires a bit more effort that you’d think. You see, there are a number of options when it comes to filtering the water you use while camping. Therefore, you might want to do a bit of research before picking up a filter in order to ensure you’re getting the best option for you.

Inline Filter

The first and most obvious answer to your water quality problems is an inline filter. These things are super easy to find, simple to install, and do a decent job of filtering out sediment.

That said, they don’t do so great when it comes to filtering out yucky tastes and chemicals such as chlorine. Still, this option is cost effective for those who only need to filter water once in awhile and it works relatively well. Therefore, this is definitely the best option for part-timers, and some full-timers prefer them over other options as well.

Canister System

Many full time RVers use a canister filtration system. This is pretty simple to install, but does require that you have a place to set the filter. The filters in these systems last much longer than inline filters, making them a great option for those who filter water into their RVs on a daily basis.

Canister systems also tend to do a great job at filtering out sediment as well as odd tastes, leaving all campground water clean, clear, and perfectly potable.

Reverse Osmosis

 

Reverse Osmosis Water Filter

Reverse osmosis is by far the most thorough water filtration system. That said, it’s also the most complicated to install, especially in an RV.

Additionally, this type of system cleans water so well that it tends to waste quite a bit of it. This means several gallons of water are flushed down the drain. Not only is this not eco-friendly, it also is not great for boondocking. Still, some people choose reverse osmosis and love the super clean water they get in return.

Berkey

Many RVers invest in Berkey filtering systems in order to provide themselves with super clean drinking water. These countertop water containers are one of the best filtering systems on the market.

That said, we recommend using the Berkey in addition to one of the filtering systems mentioned above. This is because the above filtering systems ensure sediment doesn’t make its way into your RV water lines, while the Berkey filters water after it’s already made its way through your lines.

Filtering Water Bottles

Looking to filter water while out hiking? Water bottle that filter on the go are a wonderful solution. While most bottles aren’t designed to filter anything much dirtier than tap water, there are a few out there that will filter water from a stream or river. These are perfect for those who like to hike long distances and can’t carry enough water to last their entire hike. I particularly like the Lifesaver bottle for this purpose.

While these aren’t the only options out there, they are the most popular and probably the best for most people. I encourage you to weigh the pros and cons of each and pick a system that will give you the clean water you need in a way that is convenient for you.

You may also want to keep in mind that you can combine some of these options, so if you want extra pure water, go ahead and do some doubling up!

About the author: Chelsea Gonzales

Chelsea has the amazing opportunity to take part in full-time RV living and traveling with her tiny tribe. She home schools her five-year-old son as they travel, and takes full advantage of their unique situation by using the entire world as her son’s classroom. A group of total Disney fanatics, Chelsea and her family often find themselves in the Orlando area in order to visit the Disney parks, but they have also visited over 25 of the 50 states with plans to see many more along the way. No matter where her travels take her, Chelsea enjoys riding bikes, gazing at beautiful sunsets, finding new coffee shops, Irish dancing, and sitting around a campfire with her family.

You can join her adventures through her blog, Wonder Wherever We Wander.

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Thomas C. ~ Gloria on the phone and the service man on the Gregory’s Towing truck were pleasant, courteous and very professional”

9 Cleaning Products Every RVer Should Keep On Hand

11 Wednesday Jul 2018

Posted by in RV Information

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cleaning products for RVersGoing camping doesn’t necessarily mean being dirty. In fact, most RVers much prefer returning to a nice clean space at the end of a long day in nature.

Of course, it’s easiest to keep a space clean when you have the right products. For this reason, there are certain cleaning products every RVer should keep on hand.

EXTERIOR

Let’s begin with exterior cleaners. After all, the outside of your rig is what the vast majority of people will see, so keeping it clean should be a priority. Many consider it a huge hassle to clean their RV exterior.

However, the task is made much easier when you use the products listed below, and in some cases it’s even a little bit fun to see your rig go from dingy to shiny.

3X:Chemistry Black Streak Cleaner

The dreaded streaks that magically appear—sometimes overnight—on the sides of your camper are a serious annoyance for nearly every RVer. Nobody could ever keep up with the full wash schedule that would be needed to keep these things at bay. This 3X:Chemistry Black Streak Cleaner does an excellent job getting rid of the streaks until wash time rolls around again.

Roadmaster 9910 Voom

When wash time does roll around, you’ll definitely want to have some Roadmaster 9910 Voom on hand. This stuff is tough enough to work its way through almost any spot or stain without damaging the exterior of your RV at all. Best of all, it can be used on the sides of the camper, the awning, and even the roof!

B.E.S.T. 60032 Wash and Wax

When you’re finished cleaning, turn to B.E.S.T. 60032 Wash and Wax for an extra cleaning and a bit of wax to shine things up. This product is easy to use and much loved by the RV community.cleaning rv

— INTERIOR —

Once the exterior of your rig is looking good, it’s time to head inside. Having a clean RV interior means having a relaxing space to spend time in. It also means that fewer pests (such as mice and bugs) will make themselves welcome, so it’s a win-win.

Here’s what you’ll want to grab before your interior cleaning session.

Clorox Antibacterial Wet Wipes

We love Clorox wipes! They’re perfect for those times when water is limited, but you need to wipe something up. They also work well for disinfecting counters and other yucky areas quickly and easily, something that is greatly appreciated after a long day of roadschooling.

Puracy Natural All Purpose Cleaner

Of course, wet wipes won’t always be enough. This is why we keep Puracy Natural All Purpose Cleaner on hand. This stuff is awesome because it can be used on nearly any hard surface, from windows to bathrooms and everything in between. That means we only need to keep one bottle around to tackle nearly any job.

Lysol Bathroom Cleaner

If you’re worried the Puracy cleaner above won’t be enough in the bathroom, go ahead and grab a bottle of Lysol Bathroom Cleaner. This is some of the best bathroom cleaner out there, and will definitely help keep your RV bathroom looking and smelling fresh.

Pine Sol Original

Keeping the floors clean is always a challenge. After all, you are spending time in nature, and that means plenty of dirt and debris is going to be tracked inside. This is where Pine Sol Original steps in. If you have hard floors in your rig, this is the very best product for cleaning them up. Put some diluted solution on a washcloth or mop, and soon your floors will be good as new.

Bissell Cordless Stick Vacuum

Not everyone has hard floors throughout their rig. For those who don’t, Pine Sol definitely won’t get the job done. Instead, these folks need the Bissell Cordless Stick Vacuum. This vacuum cleaner is slim so it fits well into the RV, but it’s also powerful enough to clean up those camping messes.

Adam’s Interior Detailer

Finally, those who own a motorhome will likely be looking for a way to keep their cab area clean. Adam’s Interior Detailer is our pick for this job. It cleans well, leaves everything shiny, and smells good to boot.

Pick up these 9 fabulous cleaning products, and you’ll be ready to tackle any mess. In fact, you may just have the cleanest RV in the campground!

*This post contains affiliate links which help support the author.

About the Author:

Chelsea has the amazing opportunity to take part in full-time RV living and traveling with her tiny tribe. She homeschools her five-year-old son as they travel, and takes full advantage of their unique situation by using the entire world as her son’s classroom. A group of total Disney fanatics, Chelsea and her family often find themselves in the Orlando area in order to visit the Disney parks, but they have also visited over 25 of the 50 states with plans to see many more along the way. No matter where her travels take her, Chelsea enjoys riding bikes, gazing at beautiful sunsets, finding new coffee shops, Irish dancing, and sitting around a campfire with her family.

You can join her adventures through her blog, Wonder Wherever We Wander.

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Aww Shucks!

Terry and Bonnie T. ~ Thank you so much for all of your help purchasing new tires.  We got the new tires on Friday and drove home as “happy campers”.