February 23rd, 2022 by Shauna Hammond

Now that spring is fast approaching and caravan parks begin to open ready for the new season, it may be time to start thinking about getting your own caravan back in top shape ready for your next holiday. After all, those long winter months left unattended can take a toll on your caravan.

Caring for your caravan both inside and out is extremely important. Not only to ensure that everything works as it should but to also extend the lifeline of your caravan so you can make the most of your home away from home.

Here are some great tips and advice to get your caravan looking its best and get it up and running ready for the warmer months.

Exterior Care

As to be expected you are likely to find that in your absence your caravan has developed quite a layer of dirt and in some cases with the wet winter months, you may notice your once white caravan has developed a green layer, this is often caused by a build-up of algae. This is normal as although rain itself will not directly cause algae to form it can provide the right environment for algae to grow as it carries phosphates, nitrates and other organic contaminants.

You may have also noticed that during your absence black streaks and stains have begun to form around windows and doors that often drip down the body causing unsightly stains.  This is caused by the breakdown of seals around windows and doors. Much like the build-up of grime and algae, unfortunately, this is almost unavoidable over time. We advise that you carefully remove and clean away algae and black streaks as soon as you can as leaving these untreated can cause lasting damage such as corrosion and rust.

Pro-Kleen Caravan and Motorhome Cleaner 2L

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These problems however are easily treatable and getting your caravan back into pristine condition can be very simple by using the right products such as The Pro-Kleen Caravan and Motorhome Cleaner. Designed to target stubborn dirt, Algae and black streaks it will leave your caravan with a sparkling finish. It is less abrasive than other vehicle cleaning products and shampoos so won’t cause damage to your paintwork and it is very quick and easy to apply. Simply mix with warm water and apply from bottom to top leaving it to develop for 1-2 minutes before agitating with a sponge or brush and then thoroughly rinsing away.  

Once you have removed the dirt from the outside, we recommend adding a layer of wax to the body of your caravan. Adding wax will not only give your paintwork a more polished look, but it can also help to protect the bodywork and paint, and prevent dirt and grime sticking, making future cleaning much easier.

Pro-Kleen Amazing Glaze Waterless Wash and Carnauba Wax 1L

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Interior Care

Just like the outside, the inside of your caravan may also need some TLC. After all, areas left unattended for long periods can start to smell stagnant and dusty. You don’t need to worry about using any specialised product for cleaning the inside, thoroughly vacuuming and polishing with the same product you use at home is more than enough.

If you are intending to rent out your caravan during the spring and summer months however you may want to take extra steps to get your interior feeling refreshed. Using a carpet cleaner and upholstery cleaner is a great way to help revive tired-looking interiors.  

Fresh Water Tank and Toilet Care

If water tanks are not used over winter, even if they are emptied and flushed out, you may find that your drinking water has become cloudy and can often taste stale. This is simply because the smallest amount of water that remains within the pipes will attract bacteria which in turn can result in a build-up of algae and limescale. As such it is very important to clean your freshwater tank to treat this problem. Using a freshwater tank cleaner will flush out the build-up in your pipes and restore your water. 

With caravans, it is very important that toilet waste is broken down and liquified to help with the process of emptying waste tanks and generally keep your toilets clean. This requires using the correct products. This usually consists of using a Toilet Fluid and Toilet Rinse. These can be purchased separately and are usually identified as a Blue fluid and a Pink Rinse; however, all-in-one products are available.

Blue Fluid is used directly in the waste tank to break down waste, remove bacteria and eradicate bad odours. The Pink Rinse is used directly in the flush tank of your caravan’s toilet, the will not only help to remove bad odours but will keep flush water clean. It can also be used directly in the toilet bowl for a deeper clean.  It is incredibly important that these products are regularly used as without these, limescale, waste and paper can build up in the tank and pipes which can cause blockages and damage to your toilet, which is the last thing you would want when trying to enjoy a relaxing holiday!

Pro-Kleen Caravan Toilet Chemical Pink and Blue 2L

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