As the snow begins to melt and the days grow longer, it’s the perfect time to prepare your RV for the upcoming camping season. At Doug’s Recreation in Sussex, New Brunswick, we know that ensuring your RV is in top shape is key to making your trips enjoyable and trouble-free. Whether you’re planning to hit the scenic trails around Sussex, venture to Saint John, or explore Moncton, your Forest River RV—whether it’s an Aurora, Flagstaff, Salem, or Vibe—deserves some TLC to ensure it’s ready for adventures.
In this blog post, we’ll share essential spring cleaning and maintenance tips to get your RV ready for the road, so you can make the most of every adventure this season.
1. Start with the Exterior: Wash, Wax, and Inspect
Your RV’s exterior takes the brunt of the harsh weather conditions, including the snow, rain, and salty air that can accumulate over the winter months. A good cleaning session will not only improve your RV’s appearance but also help preserve its finish and prevent potential damage.
Washing Your RV
The first step to restoring your RV is giving it a good wash. Start with a gentle rinse using a hose to remove dirt and salt that may have accumulated over the winter months. Be sure to use RV-specific cleaners, as harsh chemicals can damage the finish. You can clean your RV’s exterior by hand with a soft sponge or use a pressure washer at a low setting, but be careful around seals, windows, and decals.
Pay special attention to the roof, as leaves, branches, and other debris can build up and cause damage over time. If you can safely reach it, use a ladder or an extendable brush to scrub away debris.
Waxing the Exterior
Once your RV is clean, applying a high-quality wax will help protect its surface from dirt, water spots, and UV rays. The waxing process is not just for aesthetic reasons—it also adds a layer of protection against oxidation, which can cause fading and dullness over time. Waxing will also make future clean-ups easier. When applying the wax, be sure to cover the roof and any exterior surfaces, including the fiberglass and metal parts.
Inspect for Any Exterior Damage
Now is also the perfect time to inspect your RV for any exterior damage that may have occurred over the winter. Look for cracks, leaks, or any signs of wear on the seals around windows and doors. This is especially important to check on models like the Forest River Aurora or Salem, which are known for their durable exteriors, but like any RV, they need regular maintenance to ensure they stay leak-free.
If you find any issues, it’s important to address them before taking your RV out for its first adventure of the season.
2. Deep Clean the Interior: Refresh Every Corner
Once the exterior of your RV is sparkling, it’s time to focus on the interior. After months of being closed up, your RV may need a thorough cleaning to bring it back to life.
Carpets and Upholstery
Begin with the carpets and upholstery. Even if your Forest River Flagstaff or Vibe has been sitting unused, dust and dirt can accumulate over time. Vacuum thoroughly to remove debris, and if you have upholstered furniture, use an upholstery cleaner to give it a fresh look and feel.
If your RV is equipped with leather seating or other special materials, make sure to use the appropriate cleaner and conditioner to maintain their appearance and durability.
Kitchen and Appliances
The kitchen is a central area in any RV, and it needs to be deep cleaned at the start of the season. Wipe down countertops, scrub the stove and oven, and clean the microwave and fridge. Don’t forget the inside of your Forest River Salem refrigerator, as it can sometimes collect old food smells or residue. Make sure all appliances are functioning properly so you don’t run into issues during your first trip out.
Air Vents and Filters
Check the air vents and replace or clean any filters. This is a key part of spring cleaning that is often overlooked but can affect the air quality inside your RV. Many models like the Forest River Vibe come equipped with efficient air filtration systems, but they still require attention to ensure they’re performing at their best.
Bathroom Cleaning
The bathroom is another space that can accumulate grime quickly. Scrub the toilet, sink, and shower, and wipe down all surfaces. Make sure the bathroom vent is working properly and that no mold or mildew has started to form, which can be common in the humid conditions of a closed-up RV.
3. Check for Pests and Critters
With your RV sitting idle through the colder months, it’s important to check for any signs of pests that may have moved in. Rodents, insects, and even larger pests like raccoons or squirrels can sometimes find their way into RVs during the off-season. This is especially important if your RV is parked in an area where wildlife is prevalent, such as the wooded areas around Sussex or Moncton.
Signs of Pests
Look for droppings, nesting materials, or chewed wires that might indicate rodents. Check all compartments, including storage areas and under the RV, where pests like to hide.
If you find any signs of infestation, it’s best to address the issue quickly before the damage gets worse. Consider placing traps or natural repellents inside the RV, and seal any gaps or cracks where pests may be entering. It’s also a good idea to inspect the area around your RV, especially if it’s stored outdoors, to ensure it’s not attracting wildlife.
4. Organize Storage Areas: Make Packing a Breeze
With the warmer weather approaching, you’ll soon be packing your RV for your first trip of the season. A great way to make packing more efficient and enjoyable is to organize your RV’s storage areas.
Declutter and Reorganize
Go through your storage compartments and remove any items you no longer need. Organize the remaining gear in a way that makes sense for your camping trips. Consider using bins or organizers to keep everything in place, making it easier to access what you need without rummaging through cluttered spaces.
It’s also a good time to assess your gear and make sure you have everything you need for the upcoming season. Take stock of camping essentials like chairs, outdoor cooking equipment, sleeping bags, and any other supplies you frequently use.
Optimize Space
If you have a model like the Forest River Aurora, which is designed with space efficiency in mind, take advantage of its thoughtful storage solutions. Maximize the use of vertical space and under-bed compartments to keep things tidy and organized.
5. Restock Essentials: Be Prepared for Every Adventure
With your RV clean and organized, now it’s time to make sure it’s stocked with the essentials you’ll need on your trips. Here’s a checklist of things to restock:
- Cleaning supplies: Make sure you have the right products for both the interior and exterior.
- Non-perishable food items: Stock up on canned goods, dry snacks, and other pantry staples.
- Outdoor gear: Don’t forget things like fishing poles, hiking gear, and campfire equipment.
- First-aid kit: It’s always a good idea to have a well-stocked first-aid kit on hand for emergencies.
- RV-specific tools and equipment: Make sure you have all the necessary tools for maintaining your RV, like tire gauges, leveling blocks, and extra propane.
Conclusion: Hit the Road with Confidence
Spring cleaning your RV is an essential part of getting ready for the camping season. By thoroughly cleaning and maintaining your Forest River RV—whether you own a Forest River Aurora, Flagstaff, Salem, or Vibe—you’ll ensure that it’s in top condition and ready for your next adventure.
At Doug’s Recreation in Sussex, New Brunswick, we’re here to help with any service or maintenance needs, and we’re proud to offer a wide selection of Forest River models for sale. Whether you’re in Saint John, Moncton, or Sussex, stop by and let us help you get your RV ready for an unforgettable season of exploration.
With your RV in prime condition, all that’s left to do is pack your bags, grab your gear, and hit the open road! Come and browse our RV Parts Department to grab everyting yu need to get your RV in tip top shape for Spring!
Visit Doug’s Recreation today and let’s get your Forest River RV ready for the road!
