How to Clean Yellow Stains From an RV Awning

Awnings on recreational vehicles (RVs) are designed to provide added comfort when lounging outside your unit while stopped. They provide shade and added protection from the elements. Occasionally, yellow-colored stains can grow on the awnings. This can be the result of a number of things, including molds, various saps and sometimes animal urine, but the remedy for these stains is simple to take care of on your own.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Brush
Coarse sponge
Cleaning solution (soap or bleach)
White vinegar
Pressure washer or garden hose

Step 1

Use a brush that agitates the stain on the awning. Make sure that the brush is not so coarse that it will cut the awning material, which is usually vinyl or acrylic.

Step 2

Take a sponge and rub into the stain a cleaning detergent mixed with warm water. Detergents are appropriate for mild stains, while tougher stains may require using Lysol or a bleach-based product, particularly if the stain is the result of mold or mildew.

Step 3

Rinse out the cleaner with a pressure washer or garden hose and re-apply the cleaning detergent. If the stain didn't lighten, use a stronger product and/or mixture than previously used. Let sit for 30 minutes, then re-rinse.

Step 4

Gently rub in a coating of white vinegar. Let sit for 15 to 20 minutes, then rinse out.

Step 5

Let awning completely dry before folding it back into the RV. Otherwise, you might develop mildew on and/or in the awning.

Tips & Warnings

Clean the awning on a warm, sunny day for the best results.

Article Written By Jonathan Croswell

Jonathan Croswell has spent more than five years writing and editing for a number of newspapers and online publications, including the "Omaha World-Herald" and "New York Newsday." Croswell received a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from the University of Nebraska and is currently pursuing a Master's of Health and Exercise Science at Portland State University.

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