Introduction

Your “new” vintage trailer is more than 40 years old. Maybe a little younger. It’s been used for years, exposed to the elements, and needs to be cleaned.

Preparation

The first thing we do is prepare for the worst. We assume every trailer is infested with toxic mold, fungus, rodent droppings, dead insects, and every surface is coated with an invisible chemical film from the various activities humans engage in (both legal and illegal). So, we suit up with a full face respirator, a Tyvek suit, and gloves so we can safely get to work. Have a look at the products we use for this step.

Removal and Disposal

Remove everything in the trailer that is fabric. Carpet, upholstery, and curtains have to go. Some people think these things can be cleaned. We don’t even try. It’s better and safer just to replace all these things. If you don’t like the idea of replacing everything, at least replace the mattress. Bed bugs?

Cleaning What’s Left

Wash down every surface that’s left. Don’t use bleach or ammonia. These chemicals can mix with contaminates and form toxic gases. Even with a respirator, it’s not safe. Wash ceilings, walls, floors, furniture and other household items that will not be discarded with a detergent-water solution. We recommend using a household all-purpose cleaner like Simple Green. Follow the detergent manufacturer’s recommendation to determine the concentration of the solution. Cleaning should thoroughly cover the entire surface, not just spots. The wash water does not have to be hot. According to the EPA, hot water has not been proven more effective than cold water for cleaning.

Follow each wash with a thorough rinse using clean water and a clean cloth rag. When washing, change cloth rags and detergent-water solutions frequently. After washing, dispose of cloth rags appropriately.