Caravan Maintenance Tips

To remove dead bugs from the front of your car or van, simply use soapy water and an old pair of nylon tights or stockings. The nylon mesh is abrasive enough to scour off even the most sun-baked bugs without damaging the paintwork.

Natasha Zelem

Almost all caravans spend their time outdoors and whether in storage or on the drive are invariably parked in the same place. Result is that the tyre(s) on the sunnier side of the van (or mobile home) is always exposed to direct sunlight and will degrade faster than the tyre(s) on the side in shadow. To avoid shortening the tyre life prematurely and probably avoiding an accident, simply cover the tyre with an off cut of board that fits easily inside the wheel arch. So cheap that you can afford to throw it away (or burn on the fire during the winter) once a year and replace it.

Ken MacDonald-Fawcett

We use a small garden plant sprayer when we are on tour, it is very good for washing windows etc, almost like a mini pressure washer.

Robert Mallinson

If after several years of washing and looking after your caravan it looks a bit drab, then give it a new life by t-cutting it as you would a car. I did mine and it looks like a new model.

John Russell

To remove fine scatches on the perspex windows (caused by scaping a hedge row..!), rub lightly with a clean damp cloth (t-shirt material ideally) with a drop of brasso. Do small areas in a circular motion. Lightly clean off with a dry clean soft cloth. Be patient, it does take a little effort.

Geoff Allen

On a long trip, during the summer evenings, cling film your caravan front windows. It will only take a minute or two and you can peel it off at the other end taking the squashed bugs with it. Clean, bug free windows - Great!

Derek Rees

To clean out the awning rail, tie a knot in an old shoe lace, wet it and pull through the channel. This means you can clean the channel without having to buy a brush and without having to stand on steps to reach it.

Barry Yeates

Lubricate drawer runners & bed slats by rubbing with a piece of plain candle. Birthday candles can be used on the awning rail & on the 'rope' sewn into the awning. Do this often and the awning will glide effortlessly through the channel. For large awnings fit an eyelet at one end and attach a length of cord. Start the awning through the vertical part of the channel then pull with the cord whilst an assisstant guides it in. Saves having to use & move a caravan step to reach along.

Brian Mobberly