Head of Wanderlust at Camptoo shares essential van maintenance tips.
Spring is the perfect time to get to grips with all those long put-off household chores – including essential maintenance and, likely, a much needed deep-clean of your motorhome, caravan or campervan.
Ed Bassett, Head of Wanderlust at Camptoo, says: “Many of us are now finding ourselves spending more time at home than we previously thought possible. So, if you’re struggling to maintain that to-do list, consider giving your campervan or motorhome some TLC with a proper springtime spruce-up.
“Spring is the best time to do this kind of essential cleaning and maintenance so that ahead of summer, when you are likely planning to make the most use of your vehicle, it will be in perfect working order. As soon as we’re able to travel recreationally again, all you’ll need to do is grab some loved ones and head off on your adventure.”
Read on for Ed’s tips.
Check for leaks and signs of damp
Start by checking for leaks – ask a family member to sit inside the vehicle whilst you soak the exterior with water. If there are any leaks, you should be able to spot them immediately. Watermarks, mould or a strange musty smell, are all indicators of damp. Make sure to give your vehicle a good airing by opening all windows, doors and skylights.
Let the cleaning commence
Any build-up of dirt and grime can cause damage and deterioration if not attended to, so a thorough clean, both inside and out, is essential van maintenance. Mud and sediment can build up in the seams, seals and joints of a campervan so regular exterior cleaning is vital however a bi-annual deep clean is advisable too.
A garden hose, sponge, body shampoo, window cleaner and extendable or long handled brush should do the trick. A toothbrush combined with some old-fashioned elbow grease will help you to remove any stubborn dirt caught in any seals.
Don’t make the mistake of using washing up liquid to clean the exterior as it can be corrosive. If you do happen to make this mistake, immediately wash off with plenty of water and apply a layer of polish to preserve the campervans protective coating. For the inside, hoover and mop all floors, dust and wash walls and surfaces, and give all appliances a thorough clean. Use a paint polish and protective wax externally and protect internal wooden and metal surfaces and joints with appropriate protective sprays/WD 40.
Time for a spruce up
Thinking of replacing appliances or update the interior décor? Now is the perfect time.
Firstly, check all electrical appliances are in good working order. If you decide to replace anything, keep in mind that the new appliance should be easy to use (you don’t want a day ruined by searching for an instruction manual you left at home) and ideally not take up too much room.
If you regularly rent out your vehicle don’t be tempted to indulge in the latest style trend when it comes to the interior of your motorhome – think about what’s practical and, most importantly, durable. Consider a neutral colour palette with the odd pop of colour which will appeal to most potential renters.
Also make sure to check out the latest WI FI mobile services, as they are improving all the time in terms of connectivity, range and cost so you may find yourself a better deal.
Don’t forget about the admin
To preserve any warranty and ensure that your van is in a safe condition, an annual motorhome habitation check is essential. A basic habitation service includes assessing electrical, gas and water systems, bodywork, ventilation, fire and safety as well as a damp report. Also, as with any vehicle, your motorhome should be serviced annually, MOT kept up to date and insurance in place.
Before you go
- Flush out the water system thoroughly and clean internal tanks with steriliser.
- Check the tyre pressure and top up as needed. Blowouts are a common cause of accidents so check for sings of bulging, cracking, low tread depth, or any object stuck in the tyre.
- Check oil and coolant pressure – top up as needed.
- Charge the vehicle battery.
- Check wiper blades are in good working order – replace if needs be.
- Check any bike racks are fixed securely.
- Wash all bedding and remove any cushion covers to wash (and consider a spare set).
To find out more and plan your road trip, visit www.camptoo.co.uk.
-Ends-
Notes to Editors:
Camptoo’s Head of Wanderlust and UK Country Manager, Ed Bassett, is available for interview or comment upon request.
For further press information, please contact:
Elsa Findlay/Jo Kendall
Rooster PR
T: +44 (0) 20 3440 8930
E: [email protected]
About Camptoo
Launched in the Netherlands in 2014, Camptoo is a sharing economy platform that connects the owners and renters of campervans, motorhomes and touring caravans.
Since it was launched, Camptoo users have booked over 175,000 nights in vehicles rented through the site. Owners are able to generate income from their campervan when it’s not being used while renters have greater flexibility when booking their vehicle so that it best suits their needs.
In March 2020, Camptoo ranked 18th in the Financial Times’ fourth annual list of Europe’s fastest-growing companies.
There are over 3,500 vehicles to choose from across Europe and a further 400 across Australia, with more being added every week. Vehicles are properly insured to allow both owner as well as renter a carefree holiday, with Camptoo providing all the necessary paperwork, checklists and roadside assistance. For more information, visit http://www.camptoo.co.uk
