How Do You Get Mold Out Of A Popup Camper?

Published Date: February 18, 2021

Last Updated on October 21, 2022 by Camper Front

The time is ripe to experience yet another wonderful holiday; you can’t wait to hop in the camper and head to your favorite park.

But as soon as you expand the pop-up camper, you suddenly found molds throwing a party in and out of the trailer.

Why is this, and how do you get mold out of a pop camper?

Well, today, you are at the forefront of getting a sure-fire way that kills any existing mold in an instant and breaks free from these unsightly and smelly fungi for a while.

Are you ready?

Let’s jump right into it!

Table of Contents

Why You Should Remove Mold From A Popup Camper

First and foremost, what is the leading cause of mold on a pop-up camper?

Once we set up the campers, we have a roof over our heads. And just like any shelter, the camper shields us from external conditions like dews, rainfall, sun rays, and whatnot – which can, in turn, degrade the quality of the material.

But mold is likely to form when the camper is wet and you are not able to let it dry before collapsing the camper for storage. And since mold loves a damp and dark environment, you are setting the perfect breeding ground for it.

The worst-case scenario is this insipid growth spreads and reproduces large numbers of spore rapidly, which can easily colonize nearby areas.

In the right condition, mold multiplies every few hours.

And exposure may cause a variety of health effects that can lead to neurological damage and even death, which is why it is critical to deal with it immediately within the first sign of growth.

But don’t fret!

The method you will learn here are non-toxic ways that won’t lessen the smell or growth of mildew, but completely get rid of them – leaving the area spanking clean and smelling fresh as if it were new.

And here is how:

How To Get Mold Out Of A Popup Camper

Step 1: Drying the Canvas

The first step in ridding your pop-up camper of mold and mildew is drying it out.

Unfold the camper and let it sit out in sun – directly and not under the tree.

While direct sunlight won’t deal with the stains that are already there but will help shackle the growth of mold spores.

Next, you want to scrub the dry canvas with a stiff-bristled brush. This will get a substantial portion of the mold off of your camper.

But this is just a preliminary for mold removal.

Step 2: Treating Mold and Stains

Use Rubbing alcohol, vinegar, and tea tree oil, for homemade remedies.

But, you want to get the proper mix before applying the solution directly to the mold.

If you’re using Rubbing Alcohol, you should mix half of it with the same measurement of water.

For vinegar, you should apply it straight on the mold spots.

As for the Tea Tree Oil, mix two teaspoons of it with two cups of water.

After the blend, turn it into a spray can for easy application.

And while spraying, hold a paper towel close to the area to catch overspray and smear the spray around the regions you want it.

After a few minutes, the spots will disappear.

Then wipe the surface with a damp paper towel for about 10 minutes, removing any residues with as many paper towels as you can get.

Lastly, let it air dry openly in the sun!

Tah-Dah! You have a spanking clean surface with a fresh scent.

Warning ⚠

Do not use bleach – especially if it’s a light stain!

While it’s true that bleach can effectively kill mold, it is too harsh and can bring harm to the surface.

However, if you’re going to use bleach, ensure you thoroughly rinse all bleach residue off or the canvas could deteriorate and start falling off.

Even so, it robs the canvas on your popup camper of its sealant.

If you ask me: having a mold-free camper that leaks are no better than having a moldy camper!

Step 3: Using Commercial Products [optional]

If you catch mold right away, you should be able to treat it painlessly.

However, if your mold problem has escalated, you should break out a commercial product that can handle the situation at hand.

I recommend using The MiracleMist MMIC-1. This Mold and Mildew Stain Remover goes to work instantly, cleaning before your eyes!

Moreover, it is a no-scrub formula that Guarantees your surface will be free of black mold, mildew, and even green algae stains within one minute of application.

It is ideal for removing mold stains from all types of pop-up camper surfaces including metal both indoor and outdoor – making it the best bet for any trailer.

But be sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions when using these products.

You should know by now that commercial products are funded to lessen the pop-up canvas waterproofing.

If this happens, don’t hesitate to check our article on >>>> how to waterproof a canvas on a popup camper.

Further Readings:

Conclusion | How Do You Get Mold Out Of A Popup Camper?

So is this how you get mold out of a popup camper?

Most definitely! They are quick, yet effective solutions.

While these products will help you eliminate any existing fungus, it is best if you address the problem that might cause or is bringing the mold.

Remember prevention is better than cure. You don’t want to break the bank for costly repairs – keep that in mind!

Hence, since the canvas tends to be the most susceptible part of the camper for mold and mildew problems, if it’s raining when you put the camper away, unfold it and dry it out in the sun ASAP.

Check pipes and the canvas seasonally for leaks and make repairs immediately. So, how do you get mold out of a popup camper? Do let us know if you have any other tips we didn’t mention here. We’d love to hear from you.