How to Clean an RV Awning

As many RV owners have discovered, an awning is a great addition to the recreational vehicle (RV). Usually the material that is used for awnings is made of tough outdoor fabric like vinyl and acrylic. Some awnings are also made of canvas or other woven fabrics which requires regular sealing and waterproofing to serve its purpose.

To preserve the look of the awning and to keep it in the best conditions so that it lasts for a long time, you need to clean the RV awning. Regular cleaning will get rid of any accumulated dirt and debris and also prevent the formation of mold and mildew. Before storing the awnings, it is very important that you give it a good scrub and dry it thoroughly.

Step 1

The first step in cleaning the awning is to evaluate how dirty it is. If you have been lax with your cleaning, then there might be mold and mildew formation along with accumulated dirt and debris. If you have vinyl awnings installed on your RV, then there is a greater chance of mildew formation.

If there are any tears or rips on the awning fabric, repair them before you clean the awnings. Once you know in what condition your awnings are, it is much easier to clean it. A note about awning cleaners. They are available in any hardware or home improvement stores and you need to purchase one that it specifically meant for cleaning awnings.

Step 2

Now to get down to the actual cleaning of the RV awnings, you need to retract the awnings all the way and then roll out three feet of the awnings. Place a step-ladder on the ground and climb atop it so that your hands can reach the top of the awning comfortably.

Now brush the top of the awnings with a hard bristled brush, make sure that you clean every inch of the awning thoroughly and push out all the dirt, debris and leaves. Pull out another 3 feet of the RV awning and clean it with the brush as before.

Once you are done brushing the top of the awnings, brush the underside of the awnings too. Generally the underside of the RV awning is not as dirty as the top, but you still need to clean it out. Next spray the top and underside of the awning with water from the garden hose.

Step 3

Spray a liberal amount of awning cleaner on the top portion of the awning and allow it to sit on the material for a minute or two. Use the sponge to scrub the awning. Scrub the awnings starting from the top and working inwards. Tough stains in the awnings can be removed by using the awning cleaner. Dip the sponge in water to get rid of the dirt.

After you are done scrubbing the top of the RV awning, spray awning cleaner on the underside of the awnings and wipe with the sponge. Check the hardware of the awnings for rusting and dirt accumulation and clean it with the awning cleaner.

Allow the awning to dry completely before storing it. Retracting the awnings without drying it might lead to mildew formation. By taking care of the RV awnings you can extend its life to a great extent.