Spring in Texas means blue skies, warm breezes, and the perfect excuse to refresh your RV after a long winter. Even if you gave your rig a quick clean before storing it, a deep spring clean helps you start the travel season off right. It’s not just about looking good — it’s about keeping your RV in tip-top shape, catching small issues before they become big problems, and making your space feel fresh and comfortable.
Living in an RV means tight quarters, so even a little dirt or clutter goes a long way. A good spring cleaning helps improve air quality, keep pests at bay, and gives you that satisfying feeling of a fresh start. So grab your cleaning supplies, crank up your favorite playlist, and let’s get to work!
Why Spring Cleaning Matters
An RV is basically a tiny house on wheels — which means dirt, mold, and pests can build up quickly. Dust settles in corners, moisture leads to mildew, and small gaps create the perfect entry points for bugs and rodents.
Spring cleaning isn’t just about appearances — it’s about comfort, health, and protecting your investment. Regular deep cleaning helps:
- Improve air quality by removing dust and allergens.
- Prevent mold and mildew caused by moisture.
- Catch small issues like leaks or damage before they get worse.
- Make your small space feel larger and more comfortable.
Deep Cleaning Tips
Interior Deep Clean
Start from the top down — ceiling vents, walls, and then floors.
- Ceiling: Clean out vent covers and ceiling fans. Dust and grime can build up here without you realizing it.
- Walls: Wipe down walls with a gentle all-purpose cleaner (DIY recipe below!). Pay extra attention to corners where dust and cobwebs collect.
- Floors: Vacuum and mop — don’t forget under the furniture and along the baseboards.
- Windows: Clean inside and out. Use a squeegee for a streak-free finish.
Storage Spaces
Take everything out — yes, everything. Now’s the time to be ruthless!
- Wipe down shelves and storage bins.
- Toss expired or unused items.
- Use stackable bins, over-the-door organizers, and vacuum-sealed bags to save space.
- Add an odor-absorbing sachet (like baking soda with essential oils) to keep it fresh.
- Rotate seasonal items — if you didn’t use it last season, you probably don’t need it.
Bathroom
- Clean hard-to-reach areas around the toilet and shower.
- Clean out and sanitize the black tank — add a deodorizer afterward.
- Wipe down walls and clean the fan vent.
- Use a vinegar and water solution to dissolve hard water stains.
DIY Cleaning Recipes
All-Purpose Cleaner
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 10 drops tea tree or lemon essential oil
- Mix in a spray bottle — works on countertops, walls, and windows.
Glass & Mirror Cleaner
-
1 part white vinegar
- 2 parts water
- A few drops of dish soap
- Spray on and wipe with a microfiber cloth for a streak-free shine.
Upholstery Refresher
- 1/2 cup baking soda
- 10 drops lavender essential oil
- Sprinkle on upholstery, let sit for 15 minutes, then vacuum.
Exterior Wash and Inspection
Washing your rig isn’t just about appearances — it’s a great way to catch small problems before they become big ones.
- Start at the top and work your way down.
- Clean the roof and check for cracks or signs of delamination.
- Wash the slide-outs and inspect the seals.
- Use a gentle, RV-safe soap to protect the finish.
- Look for signs of rust, water damage, or loose trim.
Pest Prevention
Keeping pests out of an RV is a year-round battle, but spring is when bugs and critters really start to wake up.
🐜 Ants
- Seal food in airtight containers.
- Wipe down surfaces regularly to eliminate crumbs.
- Use peppermint oil or cinnamon around entry points — ants hate it.
- Cayenne pepper and vinegar also work as deterrents.
🐭 Mice
- Keep the undercarriage sealed — inspect for gaps and block them with steel wool or spray foam.
- Peppermint oil-soaked cotton balls near storage compartments help keep them out.
- If you see droppings, clean them up immediately and set traps if necessary.
🕷️ Spiders
- If you’ve got spiders, you’ve got bugs — eliminate the food source and they’ll disappear.
- Use a white vinegar and water solution around windows and doors.
- Cedar oil works well as a spider and insect repellent.
🌵 Texas-Specific Pests
- Fire Ants – Avoid standing water and keep food sealed. Diatomaceous earth or cayenne pepper around your RV works well as a deterrent.
- Scorpions – Scorpions are attracted to moisture. Keep doors and windows closed, shake out shoes before wearing them, and use diatomaceous earth around the base of your RV.
- Mosquitoes – Citronella candles and eucalyptus oil help. Also, make sure to drain any standing water around your site.
Smart Storage Hacks
Living small means getting creative with storage.
- Use magnetic strips for knives, scissors, and metal tools — but don’t travel with knives on the strip! Secure them in a drawer before hitting the road.
- Command hooks and adhesive wall organizers maximize vertical storage.
- Use collapsible bowls and measuring cups to save cabinet space.
- Store heavier items low to improve weight distribution and prevent tipping.
- Roll clothes instead of folding them — it saves space and keeps clothes from wrinkling.
Rest Your Shells with Us
Once you’ve finished your deep clean (and given yourself a high-five), why not treat yourself to a relaxing getaway at Galloping Snail RV Park?
- Full hookups for your RV
- Clean, private shower rooms for a refreshing end to the day
- Two fenced dog parks – perfect for your furry companions
- A welcoming community feel, where you can kick back and enjoy the Texas spring
Spring spots fill up fast — come rest your shells with us for a day, a week, or a month and start your season feeling refreshed!