How to Clean a Caravan Awning

A clean caravan awning not only looks great but also protects your investment and ensures it lasts for many camping trips. Over time, awnings can collect dust, pollen, bird droppings, mould, mildew and even stubborn stains from leaves or tree sap. Left uncleaned, these can damage the fabric, reduce its water resistance and make setup or packing away more difficult. With the right techniques and regular maintenance, keeping your caravan awning fresh and functional is simple. In this guide, we’ll cover everything from the tools you need to step-by-step cleaning instructions, extra tips for Aussie campers and common mistakes to avoid.

Why cleaning your caravan awning matters

A clean awning isn’t just about appearances. Dirt, debris, and mould can weaken fabric fibres, fade colours, and even cause leaks over time. Regular cleaning:

Extends the life of your awning
Maintains its water-resistant coating
Prevents mould and mildew growth
Makes packing up easier
Keeps your campsite looking neat

By making cleaning part of your caravan routine, you’ll save yourself time, money, and hassle in the long run.

What you’ll need

Before you start, gather the right tools. Using improper equipment or harsh chemicals can damage the fabric.

Soft brush or broom – to remove dust, leaves, and cobwebs
Mild soap or caravan-specific cleaner – avoid harsh detergents
Bucket of clean water – for mixing and rinsing
Hose or spray bottle – gentle washing
Soft cloths or sponges – for scrubbing stains
Protective gloves – especially if using mildew remover
Ladder or step stool – for larger or higher awnings
Towels or old sheets – to protect surfaces underneath

Step-by-step guide to cleaning your caravan awning

1. Set up safely

Always extend your awning fully before cleaning and make sure it is stable. Check that the ground beneath is firm, and be careful if using a ladder. Safety first - slipping or unstable surfaces can cause injury.

2. Remove loose debris

Use a soft brush or broom to gently sweep away leaves, dust, cobwebs, and other loose debris. Work from top to bottom so dirt doesn’t fall onto cleaned areas.

3. Apply a cleaner

Mix mild soap or a caravan-specific cleaner in a bucket of water. Using a soft cloth or sponge, scrub the awning in sections. Focus on areas with stubborn stains, bird droppings, or tree sap. Avoid scrubbing too hard, as this can damage the fabric or water-resistant coating.

4. Rinse thoroughly

Rinse the awning completely with a hose or clean water. Make sure all soap residue is removed, as leftover detergent can attract dirt and reduce the fabric’s performance.

5. Treat mould and mildew

For mould or mildew, apply a specialised mildew remover suitable for outdoor fabrics. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Rinse thoroughly afterward to prevent chemical residue from damaging the awning.

6. Dry completely

Leave the awning fully extended until it is completely dry before rolling it up. Packing it away while damp can lead to mildew, unpleasant odours, and fabric deterioration.

7. Check the hardware

While cleaning, inspect the awning arms, rails, and fasteners for wear, rust, or loose parts. Tighten screws and lubricate moving parts if needed to ensure smooth operation.

Extra tips for Aussie campers

Regular cleaning is easier than leaving it for months, and a few small habits make a big difference:

Avoid cleaning in direct harsh sunlight to prevent streaking or spotting
Repair small tears or weak spots immediately to prevent them worsening
Use a protective cover if storing your caravan for long periods
For stubborn stains, try warm water and gentle brushing before turning to chemicals
Regularly clean the awning arms, rails, and fasteners to maintain smooth operation
Use gloves when scrubbing to protect your hands and get a better grip
Consider a light coat of fabric protector after cleaning to keep water and dirt at bay

These little steps can save hours of work later and keep your awning looking great for years.

Common mistakes to avoid

Being mindful of these common errors keeps your awning performing well and lasting longer:

Using harsh chemicals or bleach, which can damage or discolour fabric
Scrubbing too hard, which can tear fibres or remove water-resistant coatings
Folding or rolling the awning while still damp, which encourages mildew
Ignoring small mould spots, which can spread quickly
Using high-pressure washers, which can pierce the fabric or seams
Leaving leaves or debris on the awning for long periods

Keep your awning looking its best

Cleaning your caravan awning doesn’t have to be a chore. With the right tools, gentle techniques, and a bit of regular care, your awning will stay clean, durable, and ready for every adventure. At Campsmart, we provide expert advice and high-quality cleaning products to make caravan maintenance simple. Check out our range or caravan awnings and keep your awning fresh and ready for your next Aussie adventure.