Deep Cleaning RV Carpets and Upholstery: Pro Tips
Over time, RV carpets and upholstery collect dirt, sand, food crumbs, pet hair, and moisture that can leave your interior looking and smelling old. Regular vacuuming isn’t enough — deep cleaning restores freshness and extends the life of your fabrics. In this guide, you’ll learn how to deep clean your RV’s carpets, seats, and upholstery safely using professional detailing techniques.
Estimated Reading Time: ~12 minutes
Why Deep Cleaning Matters for RV Carpets and Upholstery
Unlike household furniture, RV interiors are constantly exposed to dirt, humidity, and outdoor contaminants. Dust, food residue, and pet oils can embed deep into fibers, leading to stains and unpleasant smells. Over time, these contaminants break down fabric and reduce comfort.
Deep cleaning removes embedded grime, kills odor-causing bacteria, and restores softness. It’s also essential for allergy prevention and maintaining your RV’s resale value.
What You’ll Need
- → Complete Cabin Cleaner
- → Scrub Buddy Pad 3-Pack
- → Everyday Microfiber Towels
- → Soft brush or small fabric drill attachment
- → Wet/dry vacuum or extractor (optional but helpful)
- → Portable fan or blower for drying
Step-by-Step: How to Deep Clean RV Carpets and Upholstery
Step 1: Vacuum Thoroughly
Start by removing all loose dirt and debris. Use a crevice tool to reach tight areas around seats, slides, and edges. The cleaner your surface is before applying solution, the better your results will be.
Step 2: Pre-Treat Stains
For visible spots or spills, spray Complete Cabin Cleaner directly onto a towel or Scrub Buddy Pad and blot the area. Avoid soaking the fabric — moisture is your enemy inside an RV. Allow it to dwell for 30–60 seconds to lift grime before scrubbing.
Step 3: Agitate and Clean
Work section by section. Spray your cleaner lightly onto the surface or pad, then agitate in circular motions. The Scrub Buddy Pads are perfect for textured or woven fabrics because they loosen dirt without damaging fibers. Wipe away residue with a dry microfiber towel immediately after cleaning.
The Ultimate RV Interior Cleaning Combo
Use Complete Cabin Cleaner with Scrub Buddy Pads for fast, deep cleaning on fabric, vinyl, and upholstery — no extractor required.
Shop Complete Cabin Cleaner Shop Scrub Buddy PadsStep 4: Extract or Vacuum Moisture
If you have a wet/dry vacuum or extractor, use it to remove any leftover moisture or cleaner from the carpet. For manual cleaning, blot with a dry towel and repeat until the fabric feels only slightly damp.
Step 5: Dry Completely
Moisture trapped in carpet or seat foam can cause mildew and odors. Use a blower or portable fan to circulate air. Keep doors or windows open for ventilation until the area is fully dry.
Step 6: Apply Protectant (Optional)
Once surfaces are clean and dry, you can apply a water- or fabric-based protectant to help repel future stains. Make sure the protectant is RV-safe and fabric-compatible before applying.
RV Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner Comparison
| Cleaner | Surface Compatibility | Residue-Free | Ease of Use | RV Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Complete Cabin Cleaner | Fabric, vinyl, leather | ✅ Yes | ★★★★★ | ✅ Yes |
| Household Carpet Cleaner | Carpet only | ❌ No | ★★☆☆☆ | ❌ No |
| Steam Extraction | Fabric only | ✅ Yes | ★★★☆☆ | ⚠ Use Caution |
Pro Tips for Better Results
- → Work in small sections to prevent oversaturation.
- → Always test new cleaners on a hidden area first.
- → For heavily soiled areas, let cleaner dwell for 1–2 minutes before scrubbing.
- → Vacuum carpets weekly to prevent deep buildup.
- → Reapply fabric protectant every 3–6 months.
Clean. Fresh. Protected.
Restore your RV interior with Complete Cabin Cleaner and Scrub Buddy Pads. Perfect for carpets, seats, and upholstery without leaving residue or shine.
Buy Complete Cabin Cleaner Buy Scrub Buddy PadsRelated Reading
- How to Clean and Sanitize Your RV Interior After a Long Trip
- Best RV Interior Cleaners for Vinyl, Leather, and Fabric
- How to Remove Odors and Musty Smells from an RV Cabin
- How to Prevent Mold and Mildew in RV Interiors
- How to Clean and Protect RV Dashboards, Plastics, and Trim
FAQs
Can I use a steam cleaner on RV upholstery?
Yes, but with caution. Use low heat and minimal moisture to avoid saturating foam or backing materials.
What’s the best cleaner for RV fabric?
Complete Cabin Cleaner — it removes stains and odors safely without leaving residue or discoloration.
Do I need an extractor to deep clean my RV carpets?
No, you can achieve excellent results using Scrub Buddy Pads and microfiber towels to lift dirt and moisture manually.
How often should I deep clean my RV upholstery?
Twice a year is ideal — more frequently if you travel with pets or kids.
How can I prevent mold or mildew in my carpets?
Ensure full drying after cleaning and improve ventilation using a fan or blower. Avoid leaving your RV sealed when damp.
