Got an RV awning that needs some cleaning? We can show you a couple of different ways! A gallon of water and a quart of vinegar is a miracle worker for getting stubborn stains out of your RV awning.
We have more tips on how to remove stains from RV awning that can definitely help you out!
If you're dealing with bug guts and mildew, you may add one part of borax to the solution. Borax is super gentle on awning materials!
You can use either a pump sprayer or a power washer, but steer clear of harsh chemicals at all times. Find our helpful tips for a clean awning from right here!
5 Easy Steps to Clean RV Awnings by Yourself
If it's your first time cleaning RV awnings, make sure you know the awning material. The cleaning procedure is slightly different from fabric awnings to vinyl awnings. Either way, you should clean your awning every once in a while, and let it air dry completely.
So, let's talk about the easiest way to clean your RV awning- starting right now!
Step 1: Prepare the Cleaning Solution
One thing we want to clear up first is that bleach-based cleaners might damage or discolor vinyl awnings. We shared our vinyl awning maintenance tips in a later section below. Do check it out!
We have more than one cleaning solution for acrylic and canvas awnings. See what you have nearby and get to work! We'll see you in step two!
Solution 1:
If your RV awning feels sticky to touch, you'll be surprised what a gallon of water and one quart of vinegar can do! Warm water brings better results, and the solution is super safe for both fabric awnings and vinyl awnings!
Solution 2:
This particular one is very popular among RV owners. It cleans everything starting from black streaks to mold, mildew, and sludge. Depending on the size of your awning, mix one part water and one part baking soda with two parts of dish soap.
Solution 3:
Bleach mixture is not good news for a mildew-proof vinyl awning. ¼ cup of bleach is enough for every two gallons of water. You're going to need a protectant spray later on. It's because bleach will likely make the awning fabric more sensitive to UV exposure.
Step 2: Remove Tree Sap & Bird Droppings
Removing tree sap is going to take a lot of your elbow grease. But wait, we know just the thing that works!
Pour one quart of white vinegar in one gallon of warm water. Let the mixture sit on the fabric for a few minutes. Hopefully, it will loosen the sticky sap and lift it from the awning.
Don't worry if it doesn’t! There's a whole aisle of cleaning products at supermarkets for you to try. We heard tons of good things about the Green cleaners.
Step 3: Use a Brush or a Spray Bottle
Now that you have the cleaner mixture ready, spread the rolled-up awning and lower it. You should be able to access, or at least see the full fabric. If you’re unable to reach the top right or the top left corner, a long stiff brush can help!
Use the awning cleaner on both sides of the fabric. However, we suggest you don't leave the solution on the fabric overnight. They can be quite stripping and discolor RV awnings.
We like to scrub the fabric with a soft brush to remove leaf stains. You can also go in with a pressure wash, but nothing beats a good old spray bottle!
Step 4: Rinse Vinyl Awning with a Hose
At this point, your RV awning is soaking wet with the cleaner. To get it all out of the material, turn up your garden hose and spray away. Be careful not to use the max speed as it can be damaging to a fabric awning.
Step 5: Air Dry and Apply UV Protection
We see many RV owners roll their awning fabrics immediately after cleaning them. It traps liquid residue and moisture long enough to welcome mold. So, yes, we would definitely dry our RV awning first and roll it up later.
Additionally, sun exposure can ruin the color of your awning. The perk of using commercial cleaners is that the top-end ones are actually a cleaner and sealant combo. They work like a cleaner and leave a protective layer once dried. Simple Green has a few of those if you're interested!
How to Remove Mold from Vinyl Awnings?
Vinyl is an incredible material for awnings, hammocks, and tents. It's durable, mildew-resistant, and it sure repels dust more than any fabric we know! That doesn’t mean you won't get the occasional mold attacks on your RV's awning.
So, if you want to clean mildew stains, you better follow this exact recipe!
One part hydrogen peroxide and six parts of water is the best homemade cleaner for vinyl awnings to this day. Do a patch test first and clean it thoroughly within 15 minutes with a hose.
Bottom Line
So, this is how you can remove stains from your RV awnings and keep it looking brand-new for a long time! Want to keep your awning safe from mold and mildew this season? Always let your awning dry completely! Best of luck!
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