Posted by Holly Walton on 4th Feb 2025

Top Tips for Cleaning Your Campervan or Motorhome After a Trip

After an adventurous trip in your campervan or motorhome, cleaning and maintaining your vehicle is essential to keep it fresh, hygienic, and ready for your next journey. A thorough post-trip clean prevents dirt buildup, protects surfaces, and ensures your van remains in top condition for years to come.

In this guide, we’ll share expert cleaning tips and highlight essential cleaning accessories from OLPRO, including the Collapsible Washing Bowl with Handles, 9L Folding Camping Bin, and Large Waterproof Storage Bag to make the job easier.

1. Start with Decluttering and Rubbish Removal

Before diving into deep cleaning, remove all waste, unnecessary items, and leftover food. Here’s how to do it efficiently:

✔ Empty bins and dispose of waste properly – Use a dedicated bin bag or a 9L Folding Camping Bin for easy waste collection. This compact, collapsible bin is perfect for storing rubbish while on the go.

✔ Sort out recycling – Separate plastics, paper, and other recyclables to reduce waste.

✔ Check for forgotten items – Under seats, in cupboards, and behind cushions—small items can easily get lost.

Keeping a collapsible bin inside your campervan during trips makes rubbish disposal much easier, reducing the amount of mess to clean up later.

2. Clean Surfaces and Worktops Thoroughly

Countertops, tables, and kitchen areas need a thorough wipe-down to remove spills, food residues, and bacteria.

✔ Use an all-purpose cleaner – Wipe down kitchen units, shelves, and dining areas with a microfibre cloth and a mild disinfectant.

✔ Don’t forget high-touch areas – Handles, door latches, and light switches can harbour bacteria and grime.

✔ Deep clean your sink and washing-up area – The Collapsible Washing Bowl with Handles is a must-have for washing dishes efficiently. This space-saving washing bowl makes it easy to clean up even in small campervan kitchens.

Regularly wiping down surfaces ensures a fresh and hygienic campervan for your next adventure.

3. Vacuum and Sweep Floors

Campervans and motorhomes collect dirt quickly, especially after outdoor activities.

✔ Vacuum carpets and mats – Use a handheld vacuum to get into tight spaces and remove dust and crumbs.

✔ Sweep and mop hard floors – A small broom and a collapsible mop work well for quick cleaning.

✔ Shake out rugs and doormats – Removing trapped dust and debris helps keep your van cleaner for longer.

Keeping a Large Waterproof Storage Bag in your van can be useful for storing dirty shoes or outdoor gear, preventing mud from being tracked inside.

4. Clean the Kitchen Area and Appliances

The kitchen area can quickly become messy after a long trip. Follow these steps to keep it spotless:

✔ Empty and clean the fridge – Remove leftover food, wipe down shelves, and leave the door slightly open to prevent mould growth.

✔ Wash dishes and utensils – The Collapsible Washing Bowl with Handles makes dishwashing convenient, especially if you don’t have a built-in sink.

✔ Scrub the hob and microwave – Use a gentle cleaner to remove grease and food splatters.

✔ Check and refill water tanks – If needed, sanitise the system to keep drinking water fresh.

A clean kitchen prevents unpleasant odours and ensures your next trip starts with a fresh space.

5. Tidy and Freshen Up the Bathroom

If your campervan has a built-in toilet or shower, keeping it clean is essential.

✔ Clean the toilet cassette – Empty and rinse with a suitable cleaning solution to prevent odours.

✔ Scrub the shower and sink – Remove soap scum and water stains with a mild cleaner.

✔ Restock toiletries and essentials – Make sure you have enough toilet paper, hand soap, and towels for your next trip.

Regular bathroom maintenance keeps your campervan sanitary and smelling fresh.

6. Wash Bedding and Soft Furnishings

Camping trips can leave your bedding and upholstery smelling less than fresh.

✔ Remove and wash all bedding – Launder duvet covers, sheets, and pillowcases.

✔ Vacuum and air out mattresses and cushions – A fabric refresher spray can help eliminate odours.

✔ Use storage bags for bedding – The Large Waterproof Storage Bag is perfect for storing clean bedding and keeping it dust-free until your next trip.

Fresh bedding ensures a comfortable and cosy campervan for future adventures.

7. Exterior Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning the outside of your campervan or motorhome is just as important as the interior.

✔ Wash the exterior – Use a hose or pressure washer to remove dirt, mud, and road grime.

✔ Clean windows and mirrors – Streak-free glass cleaner helps maintain visibility.

✔ Check tyres and refill if necessary – Properly inflated tyres improve fuel efficiency and safety.

✔ Inspect seals and vents – Look for any damage or blockages that need fixing.

For added protection, consider using an OLPRO Caravan Cover to shield your vehicle from weather damage when not in use.