A Guide to Cleaning Mould Off Your Caravan

A Guide to Cleaning Mould Off Your Caravan

It is the bane of every caravanner’s existence – unlocking their beloved caravan after a long period of storage only to be greeted with damp patches, black mould spots, and that disgustingly musty smell. While modern caravans are built using breathable materials, there are still thousands of older-style wood construction caravans being used today, meaning mould is still a major concern. Not only does it the aesthetic and comfort levels of your caravan, but mould can also pose serious health risks, particularly to those who are allergic to mould spores.

If you find yourself dealing with a damp, moist caravan, don’t worry. Here’s our guide on how to clean mould off your caravan as well as a few tips on how to prevent them from growing on your pride and joy.

 

Preventing mould and related issues

 

Like with most things in life, prevention is better than cure. It’s much easier to prevent mould growth than it is to remove them. The last thing you want is to tackle a mould-infested caravan with the fungus spreading all over the place. Following these steps will help prevent that nightmare from becoming a reality:

 

 

  • Clean and vacuum your caravan’s interior on a regular basis. Wipe down the surfaces with antibacterial wipes and use a disinfectant product to inhibit mould growth. These microorganisms tend to grow in damp, moist areas and eliminating any water leakage will definitely help in stopping the spread.

  • Don’t let your caravan be locked up for prolonged periods. Even if you won’t be using it during the winter, make sure to open the doors and windows to let some air circulate every now and then. Mould thrives in humid environments and leaving your caravan tucked away when the temperatures are low can encourage mould growth.

  • Pay attention to the exterior of your caravan as well. Awnings and other accessories should be removed before storing your caravan. Also, don’t forget to wipe down the window seals and gaskets to ensure your caravan’s interior is properly sealed.

  • Always open the bathroom and kitchen windows as much as possible, particularly after using the shower. This helps prevent moisture buildup which we all know can contribute to a damp, musty caravan interior.

  • Check for any signs of damaged seals or other issues (no matter how small) which could allow moisture, bacteria and fungus to collect and breed.

  • Don’t forget to clean your cupboards as well. This means wiping the insides of wardrobes, cabinets, and other storage units regularly. Make sure the insides are dry before replacing the contents.

  • Treat spills as soon as possible. Do not let liquid spills sit for too long or it may open up an opportunity for mould to start breeding.

  • Wipe condensation from the windows and doors as soon as you notice them.

  • If any soft furnishings, carpets, cushions or other materials get wet to the point of being unable to dry, remove and replace these items immediately.

  • If you live in an area where moisture levels are high, investing in dehumidifying products is a good idea. You can purchase dehumidifying crystals and place them in your caravan’s bathroom and kitchen to keep moisture levels down.

  • Once winter season passes, give your caravan a good, thorough cleaning to eliminate any remaining vestiges of mould and mildew spores. You’re now ready to tackle the roads with a fresh-smelling and spotlessly clean caravan!

In general, the best way to keep your caravan free of mould and mildew is to keep it clean and dry at all times. It’s as simple as it sounds and it will go a long way towards preventing mould growth on both the interior and exterior of your caravan.

Removing mould and mildew

Now comes the most tedious part – removing mould and mildew from your caravan. All hope is not lost though as you can restore your caravan’s condition and maintain it mould-free by following this thorough cleaning procedure. Here’s how you can get rid of mould and leave your caravan sparkling clean:

  • Make sure to wear appropriate protective clothing before you start dealing with mould or mildew. This includes rubber gloves, a face mask and an apron or overalls.

  • Avoid using bleach when cleaning mould-infested surfaces. Vinegar is the safer and more effective choice which can kill mould and mildew spores with ease. Mix one part of vinegar and one part water in a spray bottle and spritz on the affected areas before cleaning.

  • Use a scrubbing brush to thoroughly clean the affected areas. Be gentle when scrubbing or otherwise you’ll damage the surface.

  • Fill a spray bottle with a mixture of 1 tablespoon of clove oil to 1 litre of water and apply to the affected areas to stop the damp from returning. Wipe off and dry after twenty minutes.

  • If the mould and mildew are particularly bad or recurrent, you may want to consider hiring the services of a professional cleaner to deal with the issues.

Once you have cleared the mould and mildew, off your caravan, remember to follow the preventative measures we’ve given to ensure the mould does not become a recurring problem. Your caravan is your pride and joy and keeping it mould-free is one way to prolong not only the lifespan of its components but to also improve the quality of your caravanning experience. You could even look at taking preventive measures before you notice any signs of mould or dirt by keeping your caravan safe from exposure to the outdoor elements. This is where our wide range of caravan covers come into play. Shop online today or give us a call to speak to a member of our team.