Leak Stains

We had this problem with our brand new PW Excel TD back in 2004. Water stains kept occurring on the cloth wall beside the galley, next to the side entry. The dealer gooped up the little window with sealant and cleaned the stain, which lasted until the next trip. We called PW and they suggested a cleaning fluid (like Clear Choice, which looks like water and has no odor. Then, the secret we were told was to blot with a clean white towel while blowing the fabric dry. Do NOT allow it to dry naturally as the stains will be back. This became our favorite method because as it turned out we would need to repeat the process many times. CW decided the problem was caused by e leak under the sink and their fix didn't last, either. Finally Bud took the time to get to the root of the problem which turned out to be an incomplete seal around the sink edge. Thus, every time the RV was moved and the sink used, water splashed out underneath. There were more water stains at the back of the cabinet. We got those all cleaned up and had no repeats (touch wood.) Clear Choice works so well, we have kept it on hand for household use, ever since. When I couldn't find it locally, I bought it on Amazon. Really good stuff.

I tried the vinegar; soap and warm water first because it had less harsh chemicals in it. I scrubbed the area with an old tooth brush. I then wiped the area with a damp cloth and then a dry cloth. I finished by drying the area with the hair dryer.

It worked very well. No more stains.

The only stain that defied my efforts was one over the center doors where a greasy thumb print was left by someone unknown. I will try the carpet cleaner method on that one to see if it works.

Thanks to those who provided advice.

Roadtrek suggests using the following mixture for cleaning the interior fabric surfaces. I have had good luck getting stains out of the fabric in my van (mostly caused by dogs rubbing against the fabric) using this:

Mix 1/2 cup Tide, 1/4 cup white vinegar and 1 gallon warm water. Scrub area thoroughly (in small patches works best) and then dry with a hair dryer turned on low. If you don't use the hair dryer, you will get more water stains.

Try a little rug/upholstery cleaner on a damp sponge. Squeeze a few times to get some lather, and then rub it on gently on the stained area. Keep at it for a while and add more cleaner as needed. Results may be better after it dries. (Caution - read the container which usually suggests you try it on a hidden area first, if you can, to make sure it doesn't remove color.)

I used rug cleaner to get some water staining off my cab area ceiling after the plastic cover of the vent van developed a hairline crack, causing a leak that drove us crazy until we figured out the source.

We had to pay $700 to have our window replaced. Then we paid the dealer to remove the stains. They did a reasonable job. The wall is somewhat warped but not a big deal.