Eradicate Old Camper Smells: Freshen Up Your Room

If you're looking to get rid of that old, musty campervan smell, there are several things you can do. Firstly, identify and fix any leaks, as these can contribute to moisture buildup and mould growth. Increase ventilation by opening windows and roof vents, and use dehumidifiers or moisture absorbers to reduce humidity levels. Clean and dry upholstery and carpets, and use natural odour absorbers like baking soda, activated charcoal or coffee grounds. You can also use odour-absorbing gels or sprays. If you have an air conditioning unit, clean or replace air filters, and check for any clogs or leaks in the system. Finally, if the smell persists, consider hiring professional cleaning services.

Wash soft furnishings and dry in the sun

Washing soft furnishings is a great way to get rid of that musty, old camper smell. This is because the smell often comes from soft furnishings such as seat cushions, carpets, curtains, and mattresses. Here is a detailed guide on how to wash your soft furnishings and dry them in the sun to eliminate odours:

Step 1: Machine Wash

Firstly, you will want to machine wash any upholstery that can be removed from your camper. It is important to choose a cool and gentle wash cycle to prevent damage to old or sun-damaged fabric. Instead of using fabric conditioner, opt for a laundry cleanser like Dettol. This will help to eliminate any bacteria causing odours.

Step 2: Dry in the Sun

After washing, take your soft furnishings outside and lay them in direct sunlight to dry. The sun's UV rays are a natural disinfectant and can help to further eliminate any lingering bacteria. The heat from the sun will also help to speed up the drying process. If possible, flip the furnishings over periodically to ensure even drying on both sides.

Step 3: Steam Iron

Once your soft furnishings are completely dry, the next step is to steam iron them. The high heat from the steam iron will help to kill any remaining mould or mildew spores, ensuring that your furnishings are thoroughly sanitised. Be sure to use the appropriate heat setting for the type of fabric you are ironing.

Step 4: Repeat as Needed

Depending on the severity of the odour, you may need to repeat the above steps multiple times to completely eliminate the smell. Additionally, it is important to address the root cause of the odour to prevent it from returning. This could include fixing any leaks, improving ventilation, or using moisture absorbers in your camper.

Step 5: Wash Non-Removable Fabrics

For any non-removable fabrics in your camper, such as curtains or carpeting, you can use a vinegar and baking soda solution to eliminate odours. Mix one part vinegar with two parts warm water in a spray bottle and dampen the fabric. Then, sprinkle baking soda onto the fabric and let it sit for 24 hours before vacuuming. Be sure to ventilate the area well during and after this process.

By following these steps, you can effectively eliminate odours from your soft furnishings and enjoy a fresh-smelling camper!

Use natural odour absorbers like baking soda

Baking soda is a natural, effective, and inexpensive way to get rid of unwanted smells in your camper. It is a base, or alkaline substance, that neutralises acidic compounds, which are often the cause of bad smells.

To use baking soda to eliminate odours in your camper, follow these steps:

• Identify the source of the odour. Common sources of odours in campers include food, mildew, and dust.
• Purchase a box of baking soda.
• If the odour is coming from your refrigerator, simply place the open box of baking soda inside. The baking soda will absorb and neutralise the odour. Be sure to replace the box every month or so.
• For other enclosed spaces, such as closets or cabinets, you can pour baking soda into a vented jar and place it inside. Again, be sure to refresh the powder monthly.
• For carpets, rugs, or mattresses, sprinkle baking soda over the affected area and let it sit for up to an hour before vacuuming it up.
• To eliminate odours from kitchen drains, pour a mixture of boiling water, vinegar, and baking soda down the drain.
• To remove odours from containers that previously held strong-smelling foods, wash them with a solution of water and baking soda, then let them air-dry.
• To get rid of microwave odours, mix two tablespoons of baking soda with a cup of water in a microwave-safe container. Place the uncovered container inside the microwave and turn it on high for three minutes. Then, wipe down the interior.
• To combat general odours in your camper, toss a handful of baking soda into your garbage pail and recycling container. Refresh the baking soda every few days.

By following these steps and using baking soda, a natural odour absorber, you can effectively eliminate unwanted smells and keep your camper smelling fresh and clean.

Clean non-removable fabrics with vinegar and bicarbonate of soda

To clean non-removable fabrics with vinegar and bicarbonate of soda, start by mixing a solution of equal parts water and vinegar in a bowl. Add two tablespoons of baking soda and stir the mixture until it forms a paste.

Using a clean cloth or sponge, apply the paste to the non-removable fabrics, working it into the material with a gentle scrubbing motion. Allow the paste to sit on the fabric for several minutes—the longer it sits, the better it will work to absorb and remove odours.

Finally, use a damp cloth to wipe away the paste, or vacuum the area if that is an option. This method can be used on carpets, upholstery, and other non-removable fabrics in your camper to eliminate musty smells.

For an extra boost of freshness, sprinkle baking soda onto the fabric after cleaning and let it sit for 15-20 minutes before vacuuming it up. This will help to neutralise any remaining odours and leave your camper smelling clean and fresh.

Clean hard surfaces with mould and mildew remover

To clean hard surfaces with mould and mildew remover, you'll first want to put on some protective gear. Wear gloves, goggles, and a respirator to avoid inhaling mould spores and getting them in your eyes.

Now, you're ready to start cleaning! Here are some methods you can use:

Undiluted White Vinegar

Apply undiluted white vinegar directly to the mould on hard surfaces such as kitchen and bathroom countertops, windowsills, and tiles. You can also use apple cider vinegar. Wash the surface with the vinegar, then dry it completely.

Bleach Solution

Create a solution by mixing one cup of bleach with one gallon of warm water. Use a brush to scrub the mould and mildew away. You can also use this solution to clean door seals and gaskets.

Baking Soda

Make a paste by mixing baking soda with water. Apply the paste directly to the mould and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing it off.

Borax

Mix one tablespoon of borax with one cup of water. Spread the solution onto the mould with a soft brush and let it dry completely.

Dish Detergent

Mix a few drops of mild liquid dish detergent with warm water in a bucket until suds form. Dip a soft brush into the suds and gently scrub the mouldy surface.

Ammonia

Mix equal parts ammonia and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the mouldy surface and wait for two to three hours before rinsing it off. Repeat if necessary.

Commercial Mould Remover

If the mould or mildew is stubborn, you can also use a commercial mould remover. Follow the instructions on the product label.

Remember to always dry the surfaces thoroughly after cleaning. If you're dealing with a large amount of mould (more than 10 square feet), it's best to call a professional.

Increase ventilation

Increasing ventilation is a crucial step in eliminating unpleasant odours from your camper. Here are some detailed tips to improve airflow and reduce odours:

Open Windows and Roof Vents

Open all windows and roof vents to improve air circulation inside your camper. This simple action allows fresh air to enter and stagnant air to escape, reducing the concentration of unpleasant odours. It's important to do this whenever possible, especially during cooking or showering, to prevent moisture buildup and the accumulation of smells.

Use Dehumidifiers or Moisture Absorbers

Consider investing in dehumidifiers or moisture absorbers to reduce humidity levels inside your camper. These devices help maintain a dry environment, inhibiting the growth of mould and mildew, which are common sources of musty smells. Dehumidifiers are particularly useful during the winter or in regions with high humidity.

Ventilate During Layup

If your camper is in storage or not in use for an extended period, ensure proper ventilation during this layup period. Remove as many items as possible from the camper and leave all locker doors open. This prevents the buildup of stale air and odours while your camper is not in use.

Use Natural Odor Absorbers

Place bowls of baking soda, activated charcoal, or coffee grounds in different areas of the camper. These natural odour absorbers are great at neutralising musty smells without the need for harsh chemicals. They are safe, effective, and inexpensive solutions to improve the air quality in your camper.

Improve Ventilation Around Beds

Old campers often develop musty smells due to poor ventilation around beds. While you sleep, moisture can condense on the bed base or slats, creating an ideal environment for mildew and mould growth. To prevent this, consider using a product like BedAirer™ mattress underlay, which improves airflow and reduces moisture buildup under your mattress.

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