How to Clean a Dump Trailer

Because dump trailers primarily transport loose materials, garbage, and debris, they’re well known for building up an impressive layer of muck and grime. While a little dirt is nothing to sneeze at, let this filth build up on your trailer and it can quickly lead to some serious maintenance issues. To learn how to get your dump trailer looking clean and fresh once again, just read through our guide below!

Gather Your Tools

The tools you’ll need to clean a dump trailer can vary depending on how dirty the model is. For a quick wash, all you’ll need is a broom, a hose, some automotive soap, and a long-handled scrub brush to get the job done. However, for more serious scrubs, we advise getting a hold of a pressure washer, a gentle acid wash, and some protective wax to get your trailer back in good shape. 

Removing Dirt and Debris

To begin, you’ll first want to step into the bed of your trailer and remove any dirt or debris with a broom. Afterward, you’ll want to use your hose or pressure washer to thoroughly rinse the bed from top to bottom, before stepping out to do the same thing to the exterior of the trailer. This should also help you remove a large chunk of the stuck-on mud and debris sitting on your dump trailer’s surfaces before you begin to scrub it with your automotive soap and brush. 

If you’re using a gentle acid cleanser to wash your trailer, you’ll want to apply the solution after you’ve rinsed your model, but before you begin scrubbing with your automotive soap. Remember to allow the acid wash to sit for as long as the package instructs before following up with your soap and scrub brush. Once both the acid wash and automotive soap have been used, rinse your trailer inside, out, and underneath—making sure none of the product is left behind. Once this is done, allow your dump trailer to dry out in the sun completely. If you applied an acid wash, be sure to apply a protective coat of wax to your trailer before you place it safely into storage. 

Need help keeping your dump trailer in good condition? Then visit us here at FJM Truck & Trailer Center and have our expert technicians handle the job for you! Our experienced techs here in San Jose, CA will have no trouble caring for even your most complicated trailer maintenance tasks or repairs, and we proudly serve the nearby city of Campbell, CA.