Caravan Cover Care & Maintenance

Looking After Your Caravan Cover

A quality caravan cover represents an investment in protecting your recreational vehicle.

With correct fitting, regular inspection and appropriate maintenance, a caravan cover can provide many years of reliable service.

The following recommendations are intended to help maximise both the performance and lifespan of your cover.

Before Fitting the Cover

Before installing a caravan cover, inspect both the caravan and the cover.

Check that:

  • The caravan exterior is clean
  • The caravan is dry
  • There are no sharp edges likely to contact the cover
  • Securing straps are in good condition
  • The cover has not been damaged during storage

Installing a cover over dirt, grit or moisture may reduce its effectiveness and contribute to unnecessary wear.

Protect Sharp Edges

One of the most common causes of premature cover wear is repeated rubbing against sharp corners or protruding accessories.

Examples include:

  • Awning brackets
  • Roof ladder mounts
  • Gutter corners
  • Spare wheel brackets
  • Body mouldings

Consider placing something soft over any sharp corners or edges to help protect the cover in areas at risk of rubbing and abrasion in windy conditions. A cut-off section of a ‘pool noodle’ is ideal for this — pool noodles are inexpensive, readily available, and can be easily cut to size and placed wherever you feel the cover will benefit.

Fit the Cover Correctly

A correctly fitted cover should sit evenly across the caravan without excessive tension or unnecessary slack.

Once fitted:

  • Secure all straps
  • Tighten straps evenly (taking care NOT to over-tighten)
  • Ensure zippers are fully closed when not being used
  • Confirm the elasticised hem is correctly positioned

Correct installation helps reduce unnecessary movement during windy conditions. For detailed fitting considerations, refer to Chapter 5 — Buying Guide and Chapter 7 — Expert Advice.

Inspect the Cover Regularly

Even when the caravan remains in storage, periodic inspections are recommended — and pay particular attention after periods of strong wind.

Check for:

  • Loose straps and strap tension
  • Excessive fabric movement
  • Areas of rubbing or abrasion
  • Water pooling
  • Accumulated leaves
  • Bird droppings
  • Tree sap

Early attention to small issues may help prevent unnecessary wear. Additional securing straps may be beneficial if excessive movement is observed.

Remove Leaves and Debris

Leaves, branches and other debris should not be allowed to accumulate on top of the cover for extended periods.

Removing debris helps:

  • Reduce unnecessary weight
  • Improve water runoff
  • Minimise moisture retention
  • Reduce the risk of mould developing beneath accumulated organic material

Prevent Water Pooling

If water regularly collects on top of the cover, consider whether the caravan is parked perfectly level.

Where practical, slightly raising or lowering the drawbar, or parking with one side on a caravan leveller, can create a gentle slope that encourages water to run off naturally.

Persistent water pooling should be investigated promptly.

Cleaning the Cover

If available, always follow the cleaning recommendations provided by the cover manufacturer.

As a general guide:

  • Remove loose dirt before washing
  • Avoid harsh chemicals unless specifically recommended
  • Rinse thoroughly where appropriate
  • Allow the cover to dry completely before refitting or storing

Cleaning methods may vary between manufacturers and fabric types. If in doubt, contact Caravan Cover Shop.

Storing the Cover

When the cover is not in use:

  • Ensure it is completely dry
  • Fold it neatly
  • Store it in a clean, dry location (each Aussie Cover includes a storage bag for this purpose)
  • Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight while stored
  • Protect it from rodents and insects where possible

Never pack away a damp cover for extended periods.

Maintaining Water Resistance

Over time, exposure to weather and cleaning may reduce the effectiveness of water-resistant treatments applied to some fabrics.

Where appropriate, products such as ‘Canvas Magic Waterproofer’ may assist in restoring water repellence. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the bottle.

Treating Mould

If mould develops on a suitable fabric surface, it should be addressed promptly.

Caravan Cover Shop supplies ‘Canvas Magic Mould Remover’ to assist with mould removal on compatible materials.

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the bottle and test products on a small, inconspicuous area before full application.

Expected Service Life

The lifespan of a caravan cover varies considerably depending on factors such as:

  • Storage environment
  • UV exposure
  • Wind exposure
  • Frequency of use
  • Maintenance
  • Fabric construction

No manufacturer can accurately predict how long a cover will last because these factors differ for every customer.

Regular maintenance and correct installation will generally help maximise the service life of the cover.

When Should a Cover Be Replaced?

Consider replacing a caravan cover if it develops:

  • Significant fabric deterioration
  • Major tears that cannot be repaired
  • Widespread seam failure
  • Severely worn securing straps
  • Persistent water ingress caused by age or deterioration

Replacing a worn cover before it fails completely may help prevent unnecessary damage to the caravan.