Horse trailers are specialized vehicles designed for transporting horses. They come in a variety of sizes and styles, but all share a few key features.
Inside, there is usually plenty of space for the horse to move around, as well as some type of food and water dispenser.
Many horse trailers also have ventilation panels to ensure that the horses have fresh air while they are traveling.
With that said, I know it can be a pain to keep your horse trailer clean. But a clean horse trailer is a happy horse trailer!
In this article, I will share easy ways and tips to clean your aluminum horse trailer. Hopefully, they will make all your cleaning effortless and fast!
So let’s tune…
Cleaning Aluminum Horse Trailer from Outside
Horse trailers are typically made from aluminum, which is lightweight and easy to tow.
Most horse trailers have ramps or doors at the rear that allow horses to enter and exit the trailer. This makes them an ideal choice for hauling horses to competitions or trail rides.
For those of you who use your aluminum horse trailer a lot, here are 7 easy ways to keep it clean and shining like new.
1. Use a Soft Brush or Cloth to Dust Off
Start by dusting off the outside of your trailer using a cloth or brush from the outside of your trailer.
Be sure to reach all the nooks and crannies, including under the fenders and around the tires.
This will remove any dirt, dust, or debris that has gathered on the surface.
2. Use a Power Washer
Once the dirt and debris have been removed, you can use a power washer to clean the outside of your trailer.
A power washer is a great way to remove the stubborn dirt, mud, and grime from your horse trailer.
Fill a large plastic pail halfway with warm, soapy water and use a big sponge or scrub brush to clean the soapy water. Allow the suds to sit for five to ten minutes to dissolve any dirt.
Then rinse the area with clean water from the power washer. Just be sure to use a low-pressure setting so you don’t damage the aluminum.
3. Use a Mild Soap and Water Solution
If you don’t have a power washer, you can still clean your horse trailer with a mild soap and water solution.
Start with a small area and work your way up. Use a sponge or soft brush to gently scrub the aluminum.
Rinse the area with clean water thoroughly afterward so the soap doesn’t leave any residue. And dry it with a clean towel.
4. Use a Dedicated Horse Trailer Cleaner
There are many horse trailer cleaners on the market that are specifically designed for cleaning aluminum trailers.
These cleaners are usually easy to use and do a great job of removing dirt and grime. You can find them at most equestrian supply stores or online at a very low price.
If you are concerned about using harsh chemicals near your horses, there are also natural horse trailer cleaners available. You can try them.
5. Use a Polishing Compound and a Sealant
If your horse trailer has lost its shine, you can use a citrus shine polishing compound to make it look new again.
Be sure to follow the directions on the package so you don’t damage the aluminum.
After you’ve cleaned and polished your horse trailer, you can apply a sealant to help protect the aluminum from dirt and grime. This will also give the trailer a nice shine.
6. WD-40 Spray
WD-40 can also be used to clean your horse trailer, remove oxidation and fix some minor scratches.
Its made up of light oil and other ingredients that help to dissolve stubborn grime and dirt. It can also help to protect aluminum from corrosion.
To use it, just spray it on and wipe it off with a clean cloth. Just be sure not to use too much, or you’ll end up with a slippery mess.
7. Use Vinegar to Clean Your Horse Trailer
Vinegar is among the best natural cleaning agent that can be used as a homemade cleaner for your horse trailer.
Just mix one part white vinegar with three parts water and use it to scrub the aluminum. Rinse the area with clean water afterward and dry it with a clean towel.
Baking soda is another natural cleaning agent that can be used as an alternative to clean a badly tarnished aluminum surface.
Make a paste of baking soda and water and use it to scrub the aluminum. Rinse the area with clean water afterward and dry it with a clean towel.
Steps for Cleaning the Inside of Your Horse Trailer
Once you’ve cleaned the outside of your horse trailer, it’s time to tackle the inside.
Because the inside of your horse trailer can get just as dirty as the outside. here are a few tips to help you keep it clean.
1. Sweep it Out
Start by sweeping out the inside of your trailer with a broom. Be sure to reach all the nooks and crannies, including under the mats and in the corners.
This will remove any dirt, dust, or debris that has gathered on the floor.
2. Mop it Down
Once the dirt and debris have been removed, you can mop the floor with a mild soap and water solution.
Start with a small area and work your way up. Use a sponge or soft brush to gently scrub the floor.
Rinse the area with clean water thoroughly afterward so the soap doesn’t leave any residue. And dry it with a clean towel.
3. Clean the Walls and Ceiling
The walls and ceiling of your horse trailer can get just as dirty as the floor.
Start by dusting them with a broom or vacuum cleaner attachment. Then wash them down with a mild soap and water solution.
4. Clean the Windows
The windows of your horse trailer can get very dirty, especially if you’re hauling hay or straw.
Begin with vacuuming or sweeping them, then do not forget to clean them down with a mild soap and water solution.
5. Clean the Mats
The mats in your horse trailer can get very dirty, especially if you’re hauling hay or straw.
So, sweeping the mats off. Then, using a mild soap and water solution, wash them down clean.
6. Clean the Stalls
The stalls in your horse trailer can get very dirty, especially if you’re hauling manure.
Begin by sweeping them away with a broom, then clean them down with a mild soap detergent and water solution.
7. Clean the Tack Room
The tack room of your horse trailer can get very dirty, especially if you’re hauling hay or straw.
So, sweep it out then wash it down with a mild soap and water solution.
8. Clean the Bathroom
The bathroom in your horse trailer can get very dirty, especially if you’re hauling hay or straw.
Begin by sweeping it out with a broom and then washing it down with a mild soap and water solution.
After that, rinse the area with clean water and dry it using a clean towel.
9. Don’t Forget to Empty the Garbage
Last but not least, don’t forget to empty the garbage from your horse trailer before you start cleaning.
This will make the job much easier and prevent you from spreading dirt and grime around.
FAQs
Are Aluminum Trailers Durable?
Yes, aluminum trailers are very durable since they don’t catch rust as easily.
Compared to regular steel, aluminum is also much more corrosion resistant.
That’s the reason they are designed to withstand the rigors of hauling horses and other heavy loads.
Is Acid Washing Safe for Your Aluminum Trailer?
Acid washing is a popular method for cleaning aluminum trailers.
However, it’s important to note that this method can be very dangerous if not done properly.
If you decide to acid wash your trailer, be sure to follow the directions on the package very carefully.
If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, you can always take your trailer to a professional to have it done.
When to Take Your Aluminum Trailer at a Truck Stop?
If you’re going to be hauling your trailer for a long distance, you may want to consider taking it to a truck stop for a quick wash.
Most truck stops have large bays that are perfect for washing trailers.
Just be sure to remove any horses or other animals from the trailer before you wash it. And be sure to rinse the trailer thoroughly afterward so the soap doesn’t leave any residue.
Now that you know how to clean your horse trailer, it’s time to get started. Just remember to take your time and be thorough.
A little elbow grease goes a long way in keeping your horse trailer clean!
Final Thoughts
Whether you are a casual horse owner or a professional equestrian, an aluminum horse trailer can be a valuable asset.
However, cleaning your aluminum horse trailer doesn’t have to be a pain.
Hopefully, the tips above will make it easier for you to keep your horse trailer clean.
Just remember to take your time and be careful when cleaning so you don’t damage the aluminum.