Cleaning Up After You Rent An RV In Texas: Tips & Tricks
As a frequent traveler who sometimes opts to rent an RV in Texas, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of cleaning up before returning the vehicle. While it’s true that a complete, professional-grade cleaning isn’t always a necessity after your RV adventure, taking the time to tidy up can go a long way toward showing courtesy to the rental company and the next renters. Additionally, certain rental agreements may specify the need for a basic clean-up before return.
In this article, we’ll explore some handy tips and tricks for cleaning up after you rent an RV in Texas. Whether you’re just trying to be considerate or if your rental agreement necessitates it, these guidelines will make the task less daunting and more efficient. Remember, the goal isn’t to perform a deep clean but to leave the RV in a respectable and pleasant state for the next user. Let’s dive in!
Clean The Cabinets, Fridge, And Freezer
When you rent an RV in Texas, the kitchen often sees a lot of use. After all, one of the joys of RVing is being able to prepare meals and snacks while on the road. However, this also means the kitchen — particularly the cabinets, fridge, and freezer — can quickly become messy.
Start your clean-up process by taking care of these areas. Clear out any food or supplies you brought with you. Don’t leave behind anything in the cabinets, fridge, or freezer.
Once everything is cleared out, wipe down the interiors. You don’t need heavy-duty cleaning supplies – a simple solution of warm water and dish soap, or a multi-purpose cleaning spray, should do the trick. Be sure to wipe down the shelves, the inside of the doors, and the walls of the fridge and cabinets.
For the freezer, defrost it if necessary and dry it thoroughly afterward to prevent ice from forming. This simple act of consideration can make a world of difference when you rent an RV in Texas.
Remember, the aim is not a deep clean but to leave the space neat and ready for the next user. With a little effort, you can leave the kitchen in a respectful condition that any subsequent renter would appreciate.
Sweep And Mop The Floor
When you rent an RV in Texas, the floors are one area you simply can’t ignore. Between stepping in and out during your travels and your regular activities inside the RV, the floors have likely collected a fair amount of dirt and debris.
Starting with sweeping is a good strategy. A small handheld broom and dustpan are usually enough to handle the job in the relatively confined space of an RV. Pay attention to corners and beneath furniture where dust bunnies may be hiding. Remember to sweep out the entrance step as well, as this area can collect quite a bit of outdoor dirt.
After sweeping, a quick mop can give the floor a fresh look and feel. You don’t need to thoroughly scrub the floor. A swift pass with a damp mop or a Swiffer-type cleaner can be more than sufficient. Again, be sure to check your rental agreement or ask your rental company if they have specific cleaning products they recommend or prohibit.
Sweeping and mopping may seem like simple tasks, but they can make a world of difference in the overall cleanliness and feel of the RV. A clean floor makes the space look tidy and cared for, something the next renter will appreciate.
Drain The RV’s Tanks
When you rent an RV in Texas, it’s important not to forget about the tanks. While draining the black and gray water tanks might not be the most glamorous aspect of RVing, it’s an essential part of maintaining the vehicle and being courteous to the next user.
The black water tank holds the waste from your toilet, and the gray water tank stores the used water from your sinks and shower. Depending on your rental agreement, you might be required to empty these tanks before returning the RV. Even if it’s not strictly required, it’s good practice to do so.
Before you begin the process, you’ll need to locate a suitable dump station. Many campgrounds, service stations, and rest stops have facilities where you can drain your tanks safely and hygienically. There may be a small fee to use these services in many cases.
Once you’ve located a dump station, you’ll connect a sewer hose from your RV’s outlet to the station’s inlet. Always ensure the connection is secure before opening the valves to avoid spills. Typically, you’ll want to drain the black water tank first, then the gray water tank. The relatively cleaner gray water can help flush out any residue the black water leaves.
Give The Exterior A Quick Clean
When you rent an RV in Texas, you’ll likely travel through some magnificent landscapes, from sprawling cities to rustic countryside and everything in between. Along the journey, your RV’s exterior can accumulate dust, mud, and even bugs. While it’s not always necessary, giving the exterior of your RV a quick clean before you return can be a courteous gesture.
Start with a visual check of the RV. Look for obvious spots of dirt or marks that are easy to clean off. You can wipe down the areas that need attention using a soft, damp cloth. Be careful around the windows and any attached accessories. Also, remember to check the roof. You might be surprised by what can collect up there after a trip, from leaves to small branches.
For bugs that are stuck to the front of the RV, a bug remover spray can be used to soften them before wiping them off. Make sure to use non-abrasive cloths to prevent scratching the RV’s paint.
If the RV is particularly dirty, it might be worth taking it to a self-service car wash station that has an RV bay. However, before you do this, check with your rental company. Some may not allow this or may have specific cleaning procedures in place.
Cleaning Tricks To Keep In Mind When You Rent An RV In Texas
Vinegar Plus Water Makes A Great Disinfectant In A Pinch
When you rent an RV in Texas, you might not always have access to store-bought cleaning supplies but don’t worry, you can still keep things clean. A simple mixture of vinegar and water can make a great disinfectant in a pinch. This simple, natural, and effective solution can clean and disinfect a wide range of surfaces.
To make the mixture, simply combine equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Shake well to combine, then spray it on the surface you want to clean. Wipe with a clean cloth or sponge. Not only will this disinfect the area, but vinegar is also a deodorizer, so it will help to keep the RV smelling fresh.
Make Sure That You Use Non-Abrasive Cleaning Products
When you’re cleaning an RV, you want to be sure that you’re not scratching or damaging the surfaces. This is especially important when you rent an RV in Texas, as any damage might result in extra charges from the rental company.
When choosing cleaning products, opt for non-abrasive cleaners that won’t scratch the surfaces in the RV. This includes avoiding scrubbing brushes with hard bristles and abrasive cleaning powders or creams. Instead, use soft cloths, sponges, and mild cleaning solutions.
This rule applies to both the interior and exterior of the RV. For instance, when cleaning the exterior, using a soft car wash brush can prevent scratches and damage to the paintwork.
FAQs
How often should you wash your RV?
While there’s no hard and fast rule, a good guideline is to wash the RV after every trip. This ensures that any dirt, bugs, or debris picked up on the road are promptly removed, preventing potential damage to the RV’s exterior. It also helps maintain the RV’s appearance, making it pleasant for the next renters. Remember, if your trip was through particularly muddy or dusty conditions, or if the RV is noticeably dirty, it might be best to clean it sooner.
What is the best thing to use to get rid of musty smells in an RV?
Renting an RV in Texas can be an exciting adventure, but a musty smell in the RV can put a damper on the experience. To get rid of unpleasant odors, try airing out the RV first. Open all the windows and doors to let fresh air circulate. If the musty smell persists, use a mixture of vinegar and water, as mentioned earlier. This natural disinfectant not only cleans but also deodorizes, helping to eliminate odors.
If the smell is still lingering after these steps, consider using baking soda. Sprinkle it on carpets, upholstery, and other fabric surfaces, then let it sit for a few hours or overnight. Baking soda is great at absorbing odors. Vacuum it up afterward, and you should notice a significant reduction in the musty smell. If the odor persists, it may be worth seeking professional cleaning services, especially if mold or mildew is suspected.
Final Thoughts
When you rent an RV in Texas, it’s always a good idea to clean it up before you return it. Not only is it a considerate gesture to the rental company and the next renters, but it also helps maintain the integrity of the RV. From using natural cleaners like vinegar and water to selecting non-abrasive cleaning products, there are plenty of ways to ensure your rented RV is spick and span after your Texan adventure.
