RV Awning Cleaning Tips

Use a Long-Handled Brush

• If you don't have a long-handled scrub brush to clean the highest spots in the awning, you can make a simple one using a towel and a push broom. Take the towel and wrap it around the bristles of the push broom. Use twine or rubber bands to secure the two ends. Wet the push broom and begin cleaning the awning using circular motions. This type of broom is safer than conventional scrub brushes because it won't scratch your awning's surface.

Mild Cleaners

• Mildew on awnings can be tough to remove. If you have a light-colored awning and don't have awning cleaner handy, one of the least expensive cleaning methods is to fill a large spray bottle with a mild solution of water and bleach. The strength of the solution will depend on the amount of mildew and dirt stains on the fabric. Use more bleach for hard stains but never let it comprise more than one third of the amount of liquid in the bottle. Wearing old clothes and safety glasses, spray the solution on the top side first and gently brush the awning clean. Work fast, and don't let the solution sit too long. Use a hose to rinse the solution and then work on the awning's underside. Avoid getting the bleach solution on the side of the RV, on decals or in your eyes. If this happens, rinse the affected areas immediately with water. For RVs with dark-colored awnings, avoid fading your fabric by using a cleaner that's recommend by your awning manufacturer.

Clean, Lubricate and Tighten Moving Parts

• Awnings need to be cleaned every few months when they are heavily used, and more often if you have been camping in dusty or wet conditions. When cleaning your awning, don't forget to check all springs, rollers, the pull tab and, if your awning has one, the cover. Use an RV-friendly silicone lubricant spray to keep all mechanical parts running smoothly. If your awning is rusted and won't retract, use a product designed to break up the rust.

Prevention is the Best Maintenance

• If dirt, leaves or other debris accumulate on your awning while it's extended, when you're ready to put it away, first lower the awning completely before retracting it to give it a light cleaning. Take a broom and brush off all dirt. Never allow debris to adhere to the awning before retracting it back into the case. Doing so may cause a mechanical malfunction of the unit.