Ways To Keep Your RV Awning Clean and Functional

No matter where you set up camp in your RV, you’ll likely spend some time outside. One of the best ways to relax outside your RV is to roll down the awning and set up chairs in the shade. You need to take good care of it and perform routine maintenance to keep it in good shape. Neglecting your RV awning can lead to stains, mold, and general damage that shortens its lifespan and ruins your camping experience.

Accent My Ride understands the importance of this process, and we want to share some helpful ways to keep your RV awning clean and functional. Following some of these simple tips can protect your investment and make sure it’s ready for your next big adventure.

Start With Regular Cleaning

Regular cleaning is the first and most basic step you can take to keep your RV awning in good shape. It will pick up a lot of dirt, pollen, and other debris as you use it. Leaving natural debris to accumulate can lead to mold and mildew growth, but cleaning your awning on a routine basis can prevent this issue.

You can use a dry brush and hose to sweep or rinse off loose dirt and debris. Then, you can apply a mild soap to scrub at the surface. Working in sections is a great way to cover everything. Avoid using harsh chemicals or pressure-washers since they can weaken the fabric or finish. Once you finish everything, rinse the awning with fresh water to get rid of the soap residue, and let it air dry before rolling it up.

Use an Awning Cleaner for Stains

While a light soap can help with general buildup, you may have to deal with tough stains tree sap or bird droppings. These are far more stubborn issues that may require something stronger than dish soap to get rid of. You should still avoid using harsh chemicals, so you can find a specialized RV awning cleaner to get rid of stains. Lifting stains as soon as you notice them makes them easier to remove, so regularly inspect the awning.

Spray the cleaner directly on the affected area, and allow it to sit for a few minutes to break down the stain. Gently blot the area with a soft cloth, being careful not to scrub the fabric. You can repeat this process if you need to, but follow the specific cleaner’s instructions for the best results. You can get rid of most stains this way, so that your as good as new.

Protect the Awning From Harsh Weather

RV manufacturers design their awnings to withstand tough weather, but prolonged exposure can still lead to wear and tear over time. The main concerns come from strong winds, heavy precipitation, and excessive sunlight, all of which may damage an RV awning over time.

Roll up the awning when the weather forecast predicts adverse conditions. If you live or camp in particularly hot and sunny areas, you may want to apply a UV protectant spray to minimize fading or fabric weakening. Always prioritize protecting your awning during extreme weather to extend its lifespan.

Inspect for Damage

The best way to keep your RV awning clean and functional is to perform routine inspections. This is a great time to catch tough stains early on, but you can also find small issues, such as loose stitching and rusted hardware. Neglecting them can result in worse issues, so address them promptly!

You should inspect your awning at least once a month, and before and after trips. Check for visible tears or holes in the fabric, and repair them with a patch kit. You can also check the awning arms for rust or corrosion.

Lubricate Moving Parts

During inspections, you can lubricate all moving parts of the awning. Accumulated dust and dirt can still stiffen these parts, making it more difficult to extend and retract the awning. Most hardware benefits from a silicone-based lubricant, or you can find one that’s special for RVs. Apply the lubricant to joints and hinges, then gently wipe away the excess to prevent dirt from sticking. Give it a moment, then test the awning movements to see if everything is working properly.

Store the Awning Properly

You can prevent potential issues with your awning by storing it when you’re not using it. If you don’t plan to use your RV for an extended period, consider removing the awning and storing it separately to keep it in good condition.

Begin by thoroughly cleaning and drying the awning to prevent mold or mildew from forming during storage. Roll it up in a way that doesn’t leave folds or wrinkles. If you’re storing your RV outdoors, consider using an RV cover or awning protector to shield it from UV rays, dirt, and moisture. A little extra care when storing your awning can preserve its appearance and functionality.

Avoid Overloading the Awning

Awnings provide shade and shelter, but they usually can’t handle extra weight. You can extend the life of your awning by not overloading it with heavy objects that may strain the fabric or hardware and cause sagging or damage.

Avoid hanging bikes or storage bags from the awning. If you want to use lights for ambiance, consider lightweight string lights that won’t put too much strain on the awning. Being mindful of what you hang on the awning keeps it structurally sound and functional.

Use a Protective Awning Cover

Sometimes, the easiest way to protect your awning is covering it. Special covers can protect against dirt, UV rays, and moisture. This extra investment can increase the lifespan of your awning and reduce the amount of time and effort you spend on maintenance.

Choose a cover that fits your RV model and is made of durable, weather-resistant material. Slip it over the rolled-up awning whenever it’s not in use to shield it from the elements. With the added protection of an awning cover, you’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing your awning is safe, even during extended storage or harsh weather.

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