Natural Cleaning Solutions for Eco-Conscious RVers | Must-Know Knowledge

As an eco-conscious RVer, keeping your RV on wheels sparkling clean doesn’t mean you have to use harsh chemicals. Plenty of affordable, versatile natural cleaning ingredients can tackle dirt, stains, grime, and odors in your RV without leaving behind toxic fumes or residue.

In this article, we’ll explore various natural cleaning solutions tailored to different parts of your RV: exterior, interior, kitchen, and bathroom. From the incredible power of baking soda to natural disinfectants like vinegar, you’ll learn how to whip up RVmade cleaners that get the job done using stuff you likely already have in your pantry. Let’s get started!

Natural Cleaning Solutions for Eco-Conscious RVers

Natural Cleaning Solutions for Different Parts of an RV

Maintaining an RV requires regular cleaning inside and out. But with the right natural ingredients and methods, you can get your rig spotless without exposing yourself (or the planet) to harsh chemicals.

Baking Soda

Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a versatile and effective natural cleaning agent that has been used for centuries. It is a mild abrasive and an excellent deodorizer, making it ideal for cleaning a variety of surfaces in your RV. Baking soda is also a safe and affordable alternative to harsh chemical cleaners.

Deodorize: Sprinkle baking soda on carpets, mattresses, and other areas that need freshening up. Let it sit for a few hours or overnight, then vacuum it up.
Remove Stains: Make a paste of baking soda and water to remove stains from countertops, sinks, and appliances. Apply the paste to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub and rinse.

Clean Ovens: Sprinkle baking soda on the bottom of a dirty oven and let it sit overnight. In the morning, spray the oven with water and scrub away the baked-on grime.
Scrub Tubs and Showers: Make a paste of baking soda and water to scrub away soap scum and grime from tubs and showers. Apply the paste to the affected area, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub and rinse.

White Vinegar

White vinegar is a natural disinfectant, degreaser, and glass cleaner. It is also a safe and affordable alternative to harsh chemical cleaners. White vinegar is a versatile cleaning agent that can be used in a variety of ways around the RV.

Disinfect Countertops and Floors: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water to disinfect countertops and floors. Spray the mixture on the surface and let it air dry.
Remove Grease and Grime: Use white vinegar to remove grease and grime from stovetops, ovens, and appliances. Spray the vinegar on the affected area and let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub and rinse.
Clean Windows and Mirrors: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water to clean windows and mirrors. Spray the mixture on the surface and wipe with a clean cloth.

Lemon Juice

Lemon juice is a natural disinfectant and deodorizer. It is also a mild abrasive and can be used to remove stains. Lemon juice is a safe and affordable alternative to harsh chemical cleaners.

Deodorize Garbage Cans: Sprinkle lemon juice on the bottom of your garbage can to eliminate odors.
Clean Stainless Steel Appliances: Mix equal parts lemon juice and water to clean stainless steel appliances. Spray the mixture on the surface and wipe with a clean cloth.

Brighten Toilet Bowls: Pour lemon juice into the toilet bowl and let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub and flush.

Borax

Borax, also known as sodium borate, is a natural mineral that is effective at killing bacteria and removing stains. It can be used to clean a variety of surfaces, including, bathrooms, kitchens, etc. Borax can be a bit harsh, so it’s important to wear gloves when using it.

Clean Bathrooms: Make a paste of borax and water to clean bathroom fixtures, such as sinks, tubs, and toilets. Apply the paste to the affected area, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub and rinse.

Remove Grease and Stains in Kitchens: Use borax to remove grease and stains from stovetops, ovens, and appliances. Sprinkle borax on the affected area, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub and rinse.

Essential Oils

Essential oils can be added to natural cleaning solutions to boost their cleaning power and add a pleasant fragrance. Some essential oils that are effective for cleaning include tea tree oil, lavender oil, and lemon oil.

Deodorize and Disinfect Countertops: Add a few drops of tea tree oil or lavender oil to a mixture of white vinegar and water to disinfect and deodorize countertops.

Freshen Laundry: Add a few drops of lemon oil to your washing machine to freshen laundry.
Clean Glass and Mirrors: Add a few drops of lavender oil to a mixture of white vinegar and water to clean glass and mirrors.

Wrapping Up

With a little creativity, eco-conscious RVers can whip up effective yet environmentally-friendly cleaners for every part of the RV from items already in the pantry. Simple solutions made from baking soda, vinegar, lemon juice, and essential oils tackle dirt, grease, grime, mold, and more without releasing toxic fumes or residue. By making their own cleaners, RVers control the ingredients and avoid exposure to harsh chemicals found in many commercial products. Implementing small steps like reusing rags and mops reduces waste too. Ultimately, natural cleaners empower RVers to keep their home on wheels sparkling clean while taking care of the planet.