25 February 2025
With the 2025 Season now underway did you know there are some steps that you need to follow in order to keep your holiday home in the best condition as possible?
Here at Lloyds Caravan And Lodge Sales we have prepared a PDF down below for you to browse at your own leisure. This has been carefully put together by our team of experts in our aftersales department and the manufacturers to ensure that you get the most out of your holiday home.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips for Your Static Caravan Owning a static caravan is a rewarding experience, but to keep it in top condition, regular maintenance is essential.
At Lloyds Caravan & Lodge Sales, we’re committed to helping you protect your investment. With each season bringing different weather conditions, here are some practical tips to help you care for your caravan throughout the year:
General Tips:
Turn off Services: If your caravan will be unattended for a long period, it’s recommended to disconnect or turn off all services (water, gas, electric) to avoid potential problems. Always turn off the water at the stop tap before leaving.
Coastal Considerations: Caravans located near the coast require constant routine maintenance to deter salt corrosion to metal fittings, as this is not covered under warranty.
Spring: Preparing for the Season Ahead
1. Thorough Cleaning: Start with a deep clean inside and out, using appropriate cleaners for each surface. PVCU Doors & Windows: Stains can be removed using a domestic, non-abrasive cream cleaner or an appropriate PVCU cleaner. Avoid excessive use to prevent affecting the gloss finish. For foiled surfaces (wood grain finishes), clean regularly with a damp cloth or a mild solution of detergent/soap in lukewarm water. Never use polishes, abrasive, or solvent-based cleaners. Exterior Panels: Wash down with plenty of clean water and a very mild detergent. An occasional polish with a good-quality wax will help maintain a high-gloss finish. Stubborn marks can be removed with a soft cloth dampened with white spirit (wear protective gloves).
2. Inspect and Maintain: Check all drainage channels and remove any obstructions, vacuum sand, and dust. Check and clean all seals and gaskets, repairing/replacing any defects. Spray with silicone. Check all moving parts and clean/repair/replace any defects. Spray with silicone/white grease where needed.
3. Test Utilities: Check that all appliances (gas, electric, and water systems) are working correctly. If unsure, hire a professional.
4. Pest Control: Look for signs of pests and ensure all entry points are sealed.
Summer: Keeping Cool and Comfortable
1. Ventilation: Open windows to keep air circulating and prevent condensation.
2. Sun Protection: Close curtains or blinds during the hottest part of the day to protect furniture from sun damage.
3. Upholstery Care: Clean upholstery with a proprietary cleaner or a slightly dampened cloth. Curtains should be dry cleaned only unless washing instructions are provided.
Autumn: Preparing for Cooler Weather
1. Clear Gutters and Drains: Remove leaves and debris to prevent blockages. Blockages can cause overflowing into the roof space and cause internal damage.
2. Inspect Heating Systems: Test your caravan’s heating system.
3. Stock Up on Essentials: Keep extra blankets and cold-weather supplies handy.
Winter: Protecting Your Investment
1. Drain Water Systems: Drain the water system to prevent freezing pipes, following a competent procedure. Remove the shower valve.
2. Turn Off Utilities: Switch off gas, electricity, and water supplies.
3. Interior Care: Remove soft furnishings and curtains to protect them from damp. Stand seat cushions up on end. Use moisture traps throughout the caravan (avoid salt, which corrodes metal). Ensure fixed ventilation is not obstructed, and internal doors are left ajar for air circulation. Clean the refrigerator, wedge open the door, and remove all food.
4. Exterior Checks: Check that all windows and doors are tightly closed, including roof lights. Ensure any items stored around or under the caravan are safely secured.
5. Lubrication: Conduct a full lubrication schedule on window and door rubber seals and locking mechanisms.
Cleaning and Maintenance Details:
Carpet: Use any proprietary carpet cleaner, avoiding excessive water.
Furniture: Use a damp cloth or all-purpose spray cleaner. A good-quality furniture polish may be used (not furniture oil or abrasive cleaners). Keep cupboard catches, stays, sliding bolts, and hinges clean and lightly oiled or smeared with petroleum jelly.
Shower Cubicles & Bathroom Fittings: Clean plastics with a very mild detergent in tepid water directly after use. Never use abrasive or chemical cleaners. Lubricate rollers with white petroleum jelly, check drainage channels, and check/repair seals.
Kitchen: Use warm, soapy water to clean the vinyl floor, rinse, and dry thoroughly. Clean worktops, sink, drainer, and cooking surfaces with hot soapy water (unless the appliance manufacturer states otherwise).
Ventilators: Clean ventilators with a stiff brush or vacuum cleaner.
Brassware: Clean with a specialist cleaner like “Liberon’s Brass and Copper Cleaner.” Oxidisation can be slowed down by applying a clear wax polish.
Chassis Maintenance (Especially in Coastal Areas): Check for signs of corrosion and periodically paint with an appropriate type of paint. Pre-galvanized chassis will need the cut edges and welded joints touched up with galvanized spray paint. Before Leaving for an Extended Period: Carry out a general internal clean. Securely lock your caravan. Leave a spare key at the site office with your site number, model, address, and telephone number.
Every Visit: Ventilate the caravan to prevent condensation. Open windows while unpacking and leave them open while cooking and showering. Avoid drying clothes inside.
Regular Checks (Every 2 Months or as Needed):
Windows/Doors/External Lights: Clean sand and dust from frames with a soft brush. Wipe with a soft white cloth and mild soap. Pay attention to hinges and handles, using silicone spray to protect against corrosion.
End of Season Checklist:
Deep clean the caravan.
Maintain the chassis.
Clear gutters.
Turn off the fridge/freezer and leave the door open.
Drain the water system and turn off the stopcock.
Add antifreeze to toilet pans.
Fit moisture traps.
Stand soft furnishings away from walls.
Remove food items.
Turn off electric and gas.
Check anchors and axle stands.
Remove/secure external loose items.
By following these seasonal and specific maintenance tips, you can prolong the life of your static caravan and ensure it’s always ready for your next holiday.
At Lloyds Caravan & Lodge Sales, we’re here to help you make the most of your holiday home ownership experience in North Wales. If you’re ever unsure about maintenance or need advice on caring for your caravan, feel free to contact our team or visit us in Towyn. We’re always happy to help!
Download Offer Details
Back to Blog