How to Clean RV Tanks

by Anthony Smith

Overview

Cleaning the holding tanks in your RV is one of the primary responsibilities in maintaining it. This will also make using your RV much more enjoyable, as clean tanks mean no unpleasant odors. The process of keeping the tanks clean actually begins even before you start to use them, and continues with cleaning methods through their use and the dumping process.

Step 1

Get a head start on cleaning your RV tanks by dumping them only when they are full. When there is plenty of water and weight in the tanks when you dump, it helps to help flush out the tanks fully. Keep the drain valves closed until the tank is full, even when you are at a facility with sewer hookups.
Step 2

Dump the black tank of your RV before the others. Dump the kitchen tank next, and then the shower and bathroom sink tank. By going in this order, the dirtiest waste is dumped first, and the next two dumps are each done with cleaner water.
Step 3

Make a solution of 1 gallon of hot water and 2 cups of powdered water softener for each tank. Add this solution to the empty tanks after dumping and before using them again. The water softener will keep solid waste from sticking to the sides of the holding tanks. This will make for more complete dumping and easier cleaning.
Step 4

Pour 1 gallon of chlorine bleach into each of the tanks. Drive the RV around for a while, starting, stopping, and turning frequently to work the bleach all over the inside of the tanks. Dump each of the tanks and flush them with clean water to complete the cleaning job.