Forum Discussion

swimmer_spe's avatar
swimmer_spe
Explorer
Aug 02, 2022

Cleaning the awning

Due to leaves being stuck to the awning, it has been stained from it. Is there a cleaner that is safe to use to remove the stain? The leaves are no longer on it, and I am diligent about not letting them stay on it.
  • Magic eraser mop heads worked well for us to clean the awning
  • Directly from Dometic A&E manual:

    Do not use strong chemicals or abrasives to clean
    the awning parts as their protective surfaces can be
    damaged. Do not use abrasive or corrosive cleaners,
    mildew removers, or hard bristle brushes on the
    awning fabric.
    • Remove any cleaning solution completely from the
    awning fabric. Bleach will degrade the awning fabric
    if not completely rinsed off

    1. Mix a cleaning solution of 1/4 cup dish soap and 1/4
    cup bleach with five gallons of fresh water.
    2. Open the awning.
    3. Apply the cleaning solution.
    4. Close the awning for five minutes, then open the
    awning
    5. Using clean water, completely remove the cleaning
    solution from the top and bottom of the awning
    fabric. Rinse thoroughly.
    6. Repeat the process as necessary.
    7. Verify that the awning fabric is dry before closing the
    awning.
  • Open the awning and spray it down with the hose
    Spray Tilex on it and roll it up
    Let it sit for about 30 minutes or so, open it up and spray it down again and it will be clean, no scrubbing needed
  • ford truck guy wrote:
    afidel wrote:
    Magic eraser mop heads worked well for us to clean the awning


    Yup, this is what I have found to be the easiest - -

    Magic eraser head


    Just be aware that just because Magic Erasers feel and act like a soft foam, they ARE an abrasive! Granted, a mild abrasive, but still can damage surfaces and material. Use with caution and care.

    One should note that A&E does mention to not use abrasives..

    All about Magic Eraser HERE

    "Melamine foam is a porous material, which acts something like very fine sandpaper to gently remove stains. Though it feels soft on the outside, each eraser is actually uniquely abrasive and uses small air pockets in the material to lift stains when damp.

    Areas to Avoid

    Avoid using a Magic Eraser on polished, delicate, or easily scratched surfaces because it may end up removing the exterior finish or causing potential damage to the outer surface. Try a test patch on a less noticeable area before going to town on a larger spot.

    Although versatile, you should steer clear of your car, stainless steel, glossy walls and wood, among other surfaces, when using your Magic Eraser."
  • afidel wrote:
    Magic eraser mop heads worked well for us to clean the awning


    x2. amazing how well it will remove dirt, stains, mildew etc. it is a mild abrasive to be careful where and how you use it. I've found magic eraser also works very well on removing stain/yellowing/dirt on the vinyl/rubber trim strips on the trailer.
  • Gdetrailer wrote:
    ford truck guy wrote:
    afidel wrote:
    Magic eraser mop heads worked well for us to clean the awning


    Yup, this is what I have found to be the easiest - -

    Magic eraser head


    Just be aware that just because Magic Erasers feel and act like a soft foam, they ARE an abrasive! Granted, a mild abrasive, but still can damage surfaces and material. Use with caution and care.

    One should note that A&E does mention to not use abrasives..

    All about Magic Eraser HERE

    "Melamine foam is a porous material, which acts something like very fine sandpaper to gently remove stains. Though it feels soft on the outside, each eraser is actually uniquely abrasive and uses small air pockets in the material to lift stains when damp.

    Areas to Avoid

    Avoid using a Magic Eraser on polished, delicate, or easily scratched surfaces because it may end up removing the exterior finish or causing potential damage to the outer surface. Try a test patch on a less noticeable area before going to town on a larger spot.

    Although versatile, you should steer clear of your car, stainless steel, glossy walls and wood, among other surfaces, when using your Magic Eraser."


    Totally agree... There is NO ELBOW GREASE with these... just slightly swipe across......

    I found that out about 10-15 years ago on another awning... I used a small hand held pad and really put my weight into it !
  • I use Amazing Cleaner by Bio-Kleen. Spray it on. Wait a few minutes and rinse.

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