Caravan awnings cop a fair bit of punishment. Sun, dust, tree sap, bird droppings, mould—whatever the weather throws at your site, your awning usually wears it first. Keeping it clean isn’t just about looks. A well-maintained awning lasts longer, stays safer and does its job without smelling like a musty tarp.
Whether you’ve got a roll-out vinyl awning or a canvas annex, knowing how to clean it properly is part of basic caravan care. And if you’re checking out caravans in Heatherbrae or getting yours ready for a big trip, now’s the perfect time to give it the attention it deserves.
Here’s how to clean a caravan awning the right way—without damaging the fabric or creating more work than necessary.
Know Your Material: Vinyl vs Canvas Awnings
Before you grab a bucket and start scrubbing, it’s important to know what kind of awning you’re working with. Most caravans in Australia have either vinyl or canvas awnings, and they each need a slightly different approach.
Vinyl awnings are common, especially on roll-out or electric models. They’re smooth, water-resistant and generally easier to clean. But they’re also more prone to mould growth if rolled up while damp.
Canvas awnings, on the other hand, are often used for annexes or custom setups. They’re breathable and good for airflow, but they can stain more easily and take longer to dry. Harsh scrubbing or the wrong cleaner can ruin their waterproofing treatment.
Knowing the difference helps you choose the right products and methods—so you don’t end up doing more harm than good.
Pre-Clean Prep: Set Yourself Up for Success
Cleaning an awning is easier when you’ve got the right conditions and tools. Ideally, choose a mild day—not too hot, not too windy—and set aside an hour or two with good access to water.
Here’s what to do before you start cleaning:
- Fully extend the awning and secure it
- Remove large debris like leaves or twigs by hand or with a soft broom
- Rinse the entire surface with low-pressure water to loosen dust and dirt
- Lay down a drop sheet or tarp if you’re on a concrete pad to avoid mess
Having the awning taut and well-supported helps prevent sagging, which makes cleaning more effective and stops water from pooling.
Also, make sure the area underneath the awning is clear—you’ll need room to move and clean both sides if needed.
Best Cleaning Solutions for Caravan Awnings
You don’t need fancy chemicals or high-pressure gear to get the job done. In fact, overdoing it can damage your awning or strip its protective coatings.
For vinyl awnings, use:
- Mild dish soap and warm water
- A diluted white vinegar solution (good for mould and mildew)
- Commercial vinyl cleaners (if approved by your awning manufacturer)
For canvas awnings, go with:
- Cold or lukewarm water
- Soft-bristled brush or sponge
- Canvas-safe cleaner (often labelled as tent or tarp wash)
Avoid using bleach, pressure washers or harsh degreasers—these can weaken stitching, discolour fabric or reduce UV resistance. A soft approach is best. Let the cleaner do the work, not your elbow grease.
Step-by-Step: How To Clean Your Caravan Awning Properly
Here’s a simple, effective cleaning method that works on most caravan awnings:
- Wet the surface thoroughly using a hose or bucket.
- Apply your cleaning solution using a sponge, mop or soft broom—start from the top and work your way down.
- Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to break down dirt, mould or stains.
- Gently scrub the surface in circular motions. For stubborn spots, go over them twice rather than pressing harder.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water until no residue remains.
- Dry fully before rolling it back in—leave it out in the sun for a few hours if possible.
If your awning has stains on both sides, repeat the process underneath. Be mindful of overspray hitting your windows or paintwork—some cleaners can leave streaks if not rinsed quickly.
Dealing with Mould and Mildew
Mould is the biggest enemy of caravan awnings. It loves damp, shaded conditions and can take hold in just a few days if your awning is rolled up while wet.
If you spot black dots or musty odours, act fast:
- Mix equal parts white vinegar and water
- Spray the solution onto the affected area
- Let it soak for 10–15 minutes
- Wipe gently with a soft cloth or sponge
- Rinse thoroughly and allow to dry completely
Repeat if needed, but never use bleach—it weakens fibres and damages coatings. For canvas, test any solution on a small area first to check for discolouration.
Once clean, you can apply a fabric-safe mould inhibitor to reduce regrowth. Prevention is better than cure when it comes to mildew.
Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Awning Looking New
You don’t need to do a full deep clean every week, but regular maintenance helps extend the life of your awning and keeps it looking tidy.
Here are some easy habits to adopt:
- Rinse after every trip, especially if you’ve been near the coast or under trees
- Dry it out fully before packing away, even if that means leaving it open overnight
- Brush off debris like leaves and pollen weekly
- Inspect for tears or loose stitching every few months
- Reapply waterproofing spray (for canvas) once or twice a year
A quick rinse and air-out goes a long way. It keeps the fabric supple, reduces mould risk and means less effort when it’s time for a proper clean.
Real-World Example: Awnings in Coastal Conditions
Karen and Doug from Port Macquarie park their caravan under trees at a local site for most of summer. Between the salty air and bird droppings, their vinyl awning used to get stained and sticky within weeks.
They now follow a set routine:
- Light hose down every Sunday
- Deep clean once a month with mild detergent and vinegar
- Roll up the awning fully dry—even if it means leaving it out a bit longer
The result? No mould, no smells and their awning still looks new after three years. Their secret is consistency, not chemicals—and a little extra care after bad weather.
Should You Use a Pressure Washer on a Caravan Awning?
This comes up a lot. While pressure washers can be tempting, most caravan manufacturers don’t recommend them for awnings.
High-pressure water can:
- Strip waterproof coatings
- Push water into seams or stitching
- Tear delicate sections of the fabric
- Damage zippers, ropes or edging
If you do use one, keep the pressure low (under 1,000 PSI), use a wide spray head and stand well back. But honestly, a hose, sponge and mild cleaner is safer—and usually just as effective.
FAQs
How often should I clean my caravan awning?
For most travellers, a deep clean every 3–6 months is enough, depending on how often you use your caravan and where it’s parked.
If you’re touring full-time or staying near the beach or under trees, monthly cleaning may be needed. Always rinse and dry the awning after heavy rain, dusty conditions or salty air exposure.
A quick rinse and dry after every trip helps prevent buildup, meaning less effort when deep cleaning comes around. The key is consistency—regular light cleaning beats one big job once a year.
What’s the best way to remove mould from a vinyl awning?
Start with a vinegar and water solution—equal parts—and spray it directly onto the mouldy areas. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes, then gently scrub using a sponge or soft brush.
Rinse well with clean water and let the awning dry fully in sunlight, which also helps kill residual spores.
Avoid using bleach or high-pressure water. If mould keeps returning, consider applying a fabric-safe mould inhibitor after cleaning, and make sure you’re drying the awning completely before packing it away.
Can I clean the awning while it’s still attached to the van?
Yes, and in fact it’s usually better to clean the awning while it’s fully extended and still mounted to the van. This gives you better access to both sides, maintains tension for scrubbing and allows proper rinsing and drying.
Make sure the legs are secure and the fabric is taut to avoid sagging. You can place a tarp underneath to catch runoff or debris, especially if you’re at a caravan park or concrete slab.
Just be mindful of where water and soap might flow—avoid splashing windows, vents or nearby power connections.
Should I apply a protective coating after cleaning?
It depends on your awning type. Canvas awnings often benefit from a water-repellent or UV-blocking spray after cleaning, especially if they’ve been scrubbed or had a deep mould treatment.
Vinyl awnings don’t usually need a coating, but there are protectants available that add a slick layer to repel dirt and moisture. Only use products recommended by your awning manufacturer.
If in doubt, do a small patch test first and reapply every 6–12 months depending on exposure. Good maintenance keeps the awning looking newer for longer and helps reduce staining and cracking.
Can I roll up the awning while it’s still damp?
Technically, yes—but it’s strongly discouraged. Rolling up a damp awning traps moisture between the layers, creating perfect conditions for mould and mildew.
If you absolutely must roll it up in the wet (say, during a storm), unroll it and dry it out as soon as the weather clears. Leaving it packed away for days while wet is one of the fastest ways to wreck your awning.
When possible, allow several hours of sun-drying time before packing away. Even a light breeze can speed up the drying process and help avoid long-term damage.
Clean, Dry, and Ready for the Road
A clean awning isn’t just about appearances—it’s about protecting one of the most exposed parts of your caravan setup. With the right tools, regular maintenance and a few simple habits, you can keep it looking good and functioning properly for years to come.
Take the time to clean it right, dry it thoroughly and avoid shortcuts. Your future self at the next campsite will thank you.
Start your journey with confidence — visit 7th Street Caravans or give our team a call on 02 4012 6009 for friendly, local advice.