It’s no secret that owning a camper trailer can be hard work, but pretty much everyone would agree it’s more than worth the effort. One of the toughest parts about ownership can be the upkeep; cleaning and waxing your camper trailer can take up the better part of an afternoon, but it doesn’t have to. This guide to washing and detailing your off-road camper trailer will leave your camper cleaner than ever in less time. The key? Regular camper cleaner jobs. This will not only make it easier for you each time but also keep your camper trailer in good shape for years of camping adventures to come.
- Products and Tools to Use
Unfortunately, a sponge and water bucket won’t quite cut it. You’re going to need a few special tools and products for this camper cleaner job, and it makes sense to gather them up beforehand so you’re not running around during it. You’ll definitely need a pole-mounted (for hard to reach places) cleaning brush with softer, synthetic brush fibers that won’t scratch your camper trailer. You’ll want a squeegee to whisk away excess water, a few towels and paper towels, a hose, vacuum, a combination wash and wax camper cleaner product, and a microfiber cloth for the wheels.
- Cleaning the Exterior
Always start by cleaning the roof of your camper trailer first—it can be frustrating to see dirty roof water run down the sparkling clean sides of your camper trailer. Use the squeegee blade to get rid of excess water, cutting down your drying time by at least half. Follow with a towel to get rid of any unsightly water spots and repeat on all sides of the camper trailer. If you notice any scratches, peeling, or tears while cleaning, make sure to treat them once the area is clean and dry. The front and back of the trailer tend to get the worst of the grime buildup, so budget extra time for those areas.
- Waxing the Exterior
No matter what materials your camper trailer is made of, they likely all oxidize over time, which can make them look aged and brittle well before they should. A wax helps protect the camper from the elements, so that you can enjoy your pride and joy for years longer. You can either wax or seal the exterior, and the choice will depend really on how often you plan on maintaining your camper. A wax uses natural compounds, so it breaks down faster. A sealant uses synthetic ingredients but lasts much longer. If you plan on washing your camper trailer every few months, opt for a wax. Otherwise, stick with a sealant.
- Washing the Interior
When it comes to the interior, everyone will operate differently. Once a year at least, it’s a great idea to empty out the inside of everything and do a deep clean. This allows you to get into every nook and cranny, not to mention clear out any junk or items that are simply taking up much-needed space. Give the trailer a good vacuum, mop and dusting, while using anti-bacterial solutions on all surfaces, handles, and cupboards.
Word to the wise: NEVER use any detergents on the tent of your camper trailer, since this can damage the waterproofing.
- Looking for Extras
If you’ve got energy to burn, there’s always extras you can do to give your camper trailer extra TLC. After hosing down the tires, apply a protecting spray and tire covers that help extend the life of your tires when they’re not on the road. If your camper trailer is showing any signs of oxidation, be proactive with an oxidation remover before waxing or sealing. Always save the wheels and tires for last, since they can be the grimiest and will gum up your cleaning tools before you’ve even started. If water restriction is an issue but you still want to keep your camper trailer in tip-top shape, a waterless wash kit will serve you well.
Finally, if you’re able to access a pressure washer, you’ll shave serious time off of your camper cleaner job while also saving you a ton of elbow grease.
