Cleaning Hints for Inside the Rig
Before launching into the cleaning tips, lots make sure to keep a few things in perspective. We all want our rigs to be clean and presentable, but we are not preparing for a military inspection. The smaller an area, the tougher it is to keep looking neat. The Less one travels with, the less there is to keep track of. This has been a very difficult lesson for Hattie to learn. Through trial & error (mainly error) she has found that less is definitely better. Here are a few thoughts concerning the upkeep inside the rig.
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Use a spray bleach product-one for inside the rig & one for the outside water faucet (heaven knows what has come in contact with the faucet). We had the unfortunate experience of watching a very large male dog relieve himself on the spigot on the site next to us while on a leash and the owner just pulled him away after the dog finished his 'business'. The spray bleach really comes in handy when traveling during the humid summer months. Mildew & mold have a nasty habit of forming on the shower curtain and in the corners of the shower. A quick blast of bleach to the offending area makes quick work of the nasty stuff. Just be sure to follow up with a rinsing of water. And be sure to have a window open or have the fan running. These products can pack a punch if not used in a ventilated area.!
Any window cleaner-this works not only for the windows, but also for counters, stove tops, tables, showers and commodes.!
Disinfecting wipes-nice for the wipe downs of the commode, sink, shower, floor, kitchen counter, etc, etc.!
Baking soda- super for stains & fires and also works for bites, and an upset tummy An old toothbrush-this works great for those hard to clean areas behind the sink faucets and the drain plugs for the bathroom sink and shower. Too often we forget to pull these plugs out and give them the attention they deserve.!
Choose your favorite ‘plug-in’ scented device and let it do its job. They work super in the smaller spaces of our rigs.!
Use plastic baskets to store as much as possible in the cabinets. If something should leak or break open, it is so much easier to clean up. Plus you have the added benefit of being able to remove the entire basket to take inventory of supplies or make additions. Baskets can be used for dry goods, paper stuff, socks, delicates, cleaning supplies, crafts, etc.!
Use area rugs and runners-they are so easy to pick up and shake out. Make sure they are basically dark in color (they won't show the dirt so much). Many of the super stores carry a superb variety of choices at a price that is affordable. ! Once a year take the time to wash down the walls & ceiling, rub some conditioning oil on the cupboard doors (Old English or a lemon oil works well), take down the curtains & run them through the laundry (add lots of fabric softener and your rig will smell marvelous), and vacuum and then wipe down all of the cloth furniture with a damp cloth. You will be amazed at how much dust and dirt settles on the dinette and couches.Remember, you are supposed to enjoy your rig, not be a slave to it. Hopefully some of these ideas will make your cleaning go a bit quicker.
Hattie