Look, keeping your caravan in top condition does not have to mean you are dumping harsh chemicals everywhere.
These days there are heaps of eco-friendly products and methods that will get your van looking brilliant without wrecking the environment in the process.
Which is always beneficial.
The fact is, most people fail to realise the impact of their traditional caravan cleaning methods. Basically, all those chemicals are being washed into the ground or stormwater drains.
By making a few simple, intelligent alternative choices and slightly adjusting cleaning practices, anyone can make a real difference and likely leave their caravan looking much better.
Changing how you actually clean
Products are one thing, but how you use them really matters.
Water conservation is huge, especially with water restrictions becoming more common across Australia. Use a bucket instead of running a hose for ages, or grab a low-flow pressure washer.
They use way less water than you’d think. If you’ve got space, you could even set up rainwater collection for washing.
Proper disposal matters too. Do not allow your wastewater to run into the stormwater drains – they go straight to the creeks and rivers, not treatment plants.
Either take your van to a proper wash bay equipped with drainage systems or you can opt for mobile caravan detailing services that will handle proper wastewater disposal for you. At the very least wash on grass so the soil filters some of it.
The microfibre problem is real. Those synthetic cloths release tiny plastic particles that end up in waterways. Natural fibres, like cotton, don’t do that.
What is the benefit of using eco-friendly products?
Let’s start with the products you are presently using to clean your van. Yes, the products you use matter.
This is what you should be looking for when you’re shopping around:
- Biodegradable cleaners: Eco Touch and Simple Green break down naturally and won’t poison waterways. Phosphate-free is key.
- Aero Cosmetics: Waterless Wash Wax is an all-waterless wash solution, which saves a huge amount of water. No hose needed.
- Natural fibre cloths, such as cotton or bamboo, are recommended instead of synthetic microfibre, which sheds plastic bits.
- Natural wax: Carnauba wax is plant-based and works better than petroleum products anyway.
Most of these natural products work just as well as the harsh chemical alternatives. In fact, a few of them outcompete the harsher options. You’re also not dealing with horrible fumes while you’re scrubbing away in the sun.
Making it work in practice
Here’s the practical bit. You don’t have to turn into some eco-warrior overnight, but yeah, you can make a few easy changes.
Start with simple product swaps.
Consider biodegradable soap as an option for your usual wash soap first. This is the easiest change, and you will hardly notice any difference, except that it probably has a less chemical smell.
Then gradually replace other products as you run out of them. There is no point throwing out perfectly excellent stuff just to buy new things; that’s wasteful in itself.
Plan your detailing sessions.
When performing a thorough detail, it’s preferable to complete the entire van in a single session, as opposed to working on individual parts over several weeks. It’s more efficient that way, and you’re not wasting water or products.
Address stubborn marks in a practical manner.
For stubborn marks or oxidation, you may require something a little stronger than the softest eco products – that’s just reality. But you can still opt for the least harmful option and apply it sparingly rather than soaking everything with harsh chemicals.
Store products properly.
Sometimes eco-friendly products do not contain the same preservatives as regular cleaners, so they can go “off” if you leave them stored in a hot shed over the summer months.
What to actually buy
If you’re standing in the shop trying to work out what to grab, here’s basically what you want to look for.
For washing, get a biodegradable car/caravan wash. Read the label – it should say phosphate-free, non-toxic, and biodegradable. A product that does not clearly state these qualities on its label is most likely not biodegradable, non-toxic or phosphate-free.
Waterless wash products are worth having even if you do not use them every time; they are helpful for quick touch-ups between proper washes and when you’re travelling and cannot access water easily.
Natural fibre cloths – cotton or bamboo. They’re cheap enough and they work fine. You can even use old cotton t-shirts if you’re trying to save money; they’re actually pretty handy for polishing.
Select carnauba or other plant-based waxes. They are slightly pricier than the cheap synthetic ones, but they last longer and perform better anyway.
Get yourself a good-quality spray bottle to use with your own diluted cleaning solutions. Mix up eco-friendly concentrates for yourself and you will be saving money while using less plastic packaging.
Wrapping up
Wash your caravan with environmentally friendly products. Think a little more about your choices; do not waste water. The products work very well – sometimes even better than the harsh chemical stuff – and you’re not leaving a trail of pollution behind you.
If it feels like too much, start with one or two items. Even by swapping out a couple of things, your caravan is going to look just as lovely – probably better because you’re being gentle on the surfaces inside.
The alternative products are also continuously improving. Most auto shops now carry biodegradable products, and many options are available online if you are looking for specific brands.
If you would like us to do an environmentally friendly detail on your caravan, contact us and we shall organise it properly. We will leave both your van and the environment in good condition.
