The Best RV Step Covers to Effectively Prevent Slipping

As we all know, RV steps are not exactly foot-friendly when it comes out of the manufacturer. In addition, it doesn’t repel dirt and debris, which is why it allows dirt to get in and spread inside. However, with the perfect rug, anyone living in an RV or trailer home will have a comfortable entrance and clean interior because the dirt will be screened properly. This is where you will find travel trailer step covers to be extremely useful.

Finding the perfect RV step cover can be quite challenging, especially if you don’t have any experience in that task. In this article, I will provide useful information about the leading step cover brands in the market these days, many of which I have tried. The brands included in this review will give you an idea of how these products perform, as well as its shortcomings. The information provided will guide you to the perfect step cover that you’ll enjoy using for a very long time.

The journey to finding the best RV step covers starts here. Read along.

10 Best Cover for RV Step Reviews 2023

1. Kohree RV Steps Cover

The Kohree 3 Pack RV Steps Cover is the perfect replacement for old and worn camper steps shrouds. It has a reliable construction and a no-nonsense design, complementing the aesthetics of any modern motorhome.

Like many products from the brand, I like this item because it fits most RV steps. It can accommodate eight to ten-inch wide stepladders, although I am confident its 20-inch maximum width can cover bigger surfaces.

Adjusting this shroud to fit almost any RV step is easy because of the four pairs of grommets at the back. RVers can connect tension springs between holes to ensure a perfect fit. If the steps are broader than the cover’s maximum allowable measurements, RV owners can tie them down with heavy-duty cords through the openings.

I am impressed with this RV step cover’s comfortable construction. The rug’s 100% polyester fibers feel nice on the feet. Our pet dogs did not have issues running up and down the entryway ladder. I am also glad the material does not retain heat. Otherwise, walking barefoot on these step covers on a sunny day can be blisteringly uncomfortable.

Compared to other products, this one is washable, ensuring effortless cleaning. The polyester fibers also create a non-slip surface for kids and older people to step on without risking falls.

Unfortunately, its straight-edge design makes this product somewhat ill-fitting on RV steps with rounded corners.

2. Camco 42925 18” Gray Step Rug

Keeping your RV safe and in its best shape does not only mean that you need to have all the essentials in your RV: it also means that every part of it should serve its purpose and serve it well. However, most owners overlook the fact that whilst RV steps usually come with an anti-slip feature, it might not be enough to keep the ridges from being worn out over time. I learned this a few years ago, and the Camco 18” gray step rug was the easiest fix I could find.

Apart from the fact that it can prevent accidents, I am happy that my RV seems to get less dirty since I installed this RV rug. I guess the texture is just enough to scrape off any built-in dirt or grime on my boots so I don’t drag them into the RV each time I step inside.

Compared to RV step rugs I tried before, this one came with hook springs that attach onto each eyelet on opposite sides (instead of zip ties). I found that the springs are a bit difficult to pull and attach (yeah, I am not a strong man), so I asked a neighbor to help me with this task and also ensure that the rug is properly aligned.

3. Prest-O-Fit 2-0205 RV Step Rug

I was a bit stumped when I was choosing a proper step rug for my RV, as camper step covers all seem to be the same for me. However, after doing some thorough research, I noticed that this Prest-O-Fit Wraparound Step Rug stands out among the rest.

First of all, it is specifically made to fit curved steps, which is the type of step that I have in my camper. RV step covers curved style prove to be a little more difficult to find a rug for because of their shape, but fortunately, this rug is designed specifically for these types of steps. I love that it fits my RV’s curved steps perfectly, and comes with a hook spring for a snug fit.

Secondly, cleaning the rug is pretty easy: you just have to hose off any dirt and grime and dry it as it is – no need for special cleaning products, not even a brush.

Apart from having UV protection and being resistant to mold and mildew, the Prest-O-Fit also fits nicely because instead of cable ties, this step rug comes with springs that adjust according to the size and shape of the step.

This camper step cover is the right choice for me as my automatic steps are curved, but I imagine it will not fit squared steps as well as it does rounded steps.

4. Camco 42947 22-inch RV Step Rug

Selecting an RV step rug should be easy, as its main purpose (at least for me) is to ensure that my RV is kept safe, clean, and well-maintained. Anything other than that is a bonus feature, and I am glad that this Camco 42947 step rug has given me some added features that I did not expect from a step cover.

This step cover is easy to install and has no need for tools, glue, or screws. I especially like this Camco RV step covers because it is easily adjustable to 3 different sizes and can fit either round edge or straight edge steps. I clean it every week and I found out that it dries faster than most steps, which I think is a plus because then it can continue to ensure that the interior of my RV stays clean as well.

In addition, the thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) backing is a nice touch because it prevents the cover from slipping and thus also adds a layer of safety for the rug.

I cannot be sure as it doesn’t say anything on the box, but I didn’t like that this step rug does not have UV protection. This means it’ll easily deteriorate as time progresses. It is, however, weather-resistant, which (I am assuming) could also mean that it is UV-protected. Nevertheless, I would appreciate it if it says so on the product details.

5. Prest-O-Fit 5-1091 for RV Landings

I have been using motorhome step covers since I got my other RV back in 2014, and so far I have gone through 4 sets until 2017. By then, I’ve grown tired of cheap and flimsy step rugs, but since I still wanted to save money (and frankly, I wouldn’t spend hundreds of dollars on step rugs anyway), I decided to get the Prest-O-Fit step hugger for my RV landing. I was expecting it to be worn out in less than a year considering that it is not an expensive item, but it’s been two years and this step cover has not yet let me down.

Since it is made from Olefin carpet, it is colorfast and can withstand regular use without being damaged easily. It can also withstand being exposed to sunlight for long hours, so even if I kept my RV steps open for days on end, it did not deteriorate fast. It is really heavy-duty.

Simply rubbing your shoes against this step cover will minimize (if not totally eliminate) any debris that you could get into the interior of the RV.

Because it is fitted with hook-and-loop fasteners, it might not be the best step cover to use as a wraparound rug. Even so, with the strip fasteners, it could be used on any type of surface so I would say that I am still pretty happy with this rug.

6. ARL Outdoors Wraparound Step Cover

I don’t know anyone who hates cleaning more than I do, and as a camper, the most inconvenient kind of mess for me is the tracked dirt that usually gets dragged into my camper van. A friend of mine suggested that I get an ARL Outdoors step cover, so I did, and I am so grateful to that friend that I treat him to a couple of cold beers every week just to show my appreciation.

It’s not rocket science, I know, but I didn’t really think of getting a step cover before my friend suggested it to me because I thought the ridges on the RV step would be enough to keep away all the grime from outdoors. It probably did, for a while, but as my camper van got older, I noticed that the ridges have gotten less prominent that you couldn’t even tell there were ridges there before. It has become so smooth that people have to watch their step to avoid slipping.

With the ARL Outdoors rug, I can ensure that my camper will be safe and clean without much effort. I am thankful that it is made from heavy-duty material and I can tell it will last long. I am also glad that it fit my steps nicely, as I missed to check the dimensions of the camper steps when I ordered the rug cover. Although, the width of the rug will not be enough to RV steps that are wider than 18 inches.

I wish they had provided hook springs instead, for securing the rug in place, as I’m guessing it will be a bit more convenient to install. As it is, it requires the use of a tool to cut the excess length on the zip ties, though it’s pretty easy to do.

7. Shade Pro RV Step Covers

The Shade Pro RV step covers work well on both automatic and manual steps, so I’m sure any camper will be pleased to get these for their RV.

It has a universal trim so it fits any type of RV step; it is big enough to cover 24-inch-wide steps. At the same time, because it has a rubber backing, I could cut the step rug to my desired width without damaging the entire thing.

What I liked most about this, though, is that it has a unique “loop” design that apparently catches grime better than other rugs. I didn’t notice this “loop” design at first until I realized that it is easier to remove dried mud from shoes using this RV step cover.

At first glance, I thought the hook springs were kind of short to hook onto the grommets on each side, but then I realized it must have been made that way so the rug is pulled tightly around the step. With some extra effort, I managed to stretch the springs just enough to hook them onto the grommets and set the RV step cover in place. However, compared to other rugs, it takes a while and more effort to install.

8. Prest-O-Fit Ruggids RV Step Rug

The Prest-O-Fit Ruggids RV step rug will not only keep your RV clean, safe, and convenient to use: it will also be able to withstand external factors such as direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

I am pleased to have this RV step rug as it has deeper treads than most rugs out there, and because of that, it can remove any type of debris from people’s shoes and prevent it from getting indoors. But even if it traps pebbles and dirt, getting rid of these from the rug is pretty simple. Cleaning only involves just hosing off and drying the step rug in the sun.

I also like that it has protection from sun damage with its UV protection. Similarly, it can prevent mold and mildew from developing, even during wet and humid climates.

Like most step covers, it comes with zip ties for installation so tightening it to fit the step is pretty straightforward, whether it’s automatic or manual. It was a bit difficult to wrap around the step as the material is thicker than typical rugs, hence a bit less flexible, too.

9. Camco 42910 RV Step Rug

Keeping the dust and other debris out of the camper is not an easy task to accomplish. Without a good rug to prevent the dirt from spreading everywhere in the camper. If you wish to have your RV, camper, trailer home, or your caravan dirt-free at all times, the best product that you should have is Camco 42910 RV Step Rug.

Of all the RV step rugs I’ve seen so far, this particular product stands out the most. It is made of 100% polyester and it’s totally slip-free. I never had any accidents so far with this particular step rug. In addition, this rug is easy to install. All I have to do is to wrap the rug around the step secure it with springs through the premade holes. The spring wraps the rug so tight that’s why it doesn’t move at all.

Another feature that I like about this product is the fact that it is very easy to clean. Other step rugs are hard to clean because the dirt sticks with it. With this polyester rug, I am confident that movement is always easy.

One thing that I didn’t like about this step rug is the springs. I noticed that the springs that hold the rug is weak and bends easily. Because of this, I have to reposition the rug each time that the spring gets loose. To prevent this from happening, I purchased a stronger set of springs to keep the step rug in place.

10. Grubby Feet RV Step Cover

The cleanliness of the RV is what the owners should always aspire all the time. However, the interior of our trailer homes still gets dirty because we can’t control what gets stuck in under the soles of our shoes or footwear. If you have a 30-inch RV step that needs to have a decent and efficient step cover, this product from Grubby Feet will certainly keep your trailer home clean all the time.

What I like about this particular step cover is its non-porous feature. I find it perfectly okay to leave it outside even if it is raining or snowing. Other outdoor rugs in the market absorb a lot of water, especially if the step was left outside. If it happens, the floor of the RV will also get wet. This one, however, keeps the water away, therefore prevents water from getting inside.

Another thing that I like about this step rug is its resistance to mildew and mold. Fungi is very dangerous to health and I will do anything to keep it out of my trailer home. Since this rug will not become a home to mold and mildew, I am confident that my health will not be compromised.

What I don’t like about this step rug is the fact that it is rough on the feet, especially if I step on it barefooted. I really like to keep my feet free inside the trailer home. But sometimes, I forget to put slippers on when I step outside. This is when I hurt my feet and I really don’t like the feeling.

Safety Step SA08-00 Sand Away Step Rug 

Climbing aboard the RV or trailer home in a safe manner is necessary for a secure RV living. This begins with your first step inside the recreational vehicle. For this part, you need reliable RV stair covers to ensure that you won’t slip or spread dirt inside. If you are looking for camper step covers, this product from Safety Step will help you achieve your vision.

So far, I am really impressed with this product’s performance. I find it very easy to mount. I didn’t need any special tools just to install it. It only took me 15 minutes just to place it in my RV step. Furthermore, it is lightweight so I’m not worried about the extra burden for my trailer home.

I also like the fact that this step cover is easy to clean. No need to scrub it or place it in a washing machine. Other step covers need to be thoroughly cleaned to remove all the dirt is collected. This one, however, is totally hassle-free. All I have to do to remove the stranded dirt and debris is spray with a hose.

What I don’t like about this product is that it contains carcinogenic materials. This is detailed in the California Proposition 65 warning. It is known that this proposition requires the company to warn consumers about the harmful contents of the product. While I find this product highly efficient, I won’t deny the fact that it made me hesitate to purchase it. After all, who wants to get cancer from the products that they are using? But since I will just be using it to cover the steps and I won’t be putting my face on it to breathe its fumes, I still purchased it.

What to Look for When Buying an RV Step Cover

Step rugs or step covers are a very essential accessory to any RV, camper, caravan, or trailer home. This makes your step safer by providing extra friction under the sole of the shoes. Furthermore, it prevents dirt and debris from getting inside the RV. It is, therefore, your first line of defense against dirt and unwanted particles that might make your steps inside the RV uncomfortable.

When buying RV step rugs, here are some of the things that you need to consider:

• Materials used – Step covers come in different materials. The most famous ones are rubber, plastic or PVC, and polyester. Rubber and polyester are the common ones, but plastic or PVC is cheaper. In terms of performance, polyester is the most effective in capturing dirt and debris however, it can easily get mildew and mold. Meanwhile, rubber and plastic mats may not get mold and mildew, but it can get slippery during snowy or rainy seasons. If you want your step covers to last a very long time, it is essential that you pick the right material.
• Size – Not all RV step covers have the same size. This is because not all RV step brands have the same size. Before purchasing step rugs, make sure that you know the correct size of the steps to prevent accidents such as tripping up on the rug.
• Easy to install – If you need to use special tools to properly mount the step cover, then it is definitely not the one for you. Look for the one that doesn’t need any special tool in order to be mounted on your RV steps. This way, you can turn to other tasks that need your attention.
• Other features – Aside from giving extra traction and preventing dust and debris from entering the RV, there are other features that you should look for in a step cover. One perfect example is the UV protection. The UV protection is an important feature because it prevents the color of the step cover from fading, especially if it is exposed under the sun for a very long time. If the color of the step cover is not fading, it is, therefore, less likely that you will buy a new one.

You also need to bear in mind when buying an RV step covers the design. Look for the one that will compliment your RV. This will make your step covers blend well with the paint color, as well as the overall design of the RV itself.

Other Important Factors to Consider

What is an RV step cover?

An RV step cover is a strip of rag that is used to cover each landing of an RV step. It may be made of polyester, PVC or plastic, and rubber.

How does it work?

An RV step cover works by preventing dust, dirt, and debris from entering the camper, trailer home, or your fifth wheel. It also provides extra traction in your steps to prevent you from falling.

What are the different types of RV step covers?

There are three different types of step cover to choose from. These are:

1. Rubber. A rubber step rug is an effective way of keeping the dust out of your camper. It is lightweight and easy to install. In addition, it is easy to clean. Just a blast of soap and water will remove any standing dirt and grime. Since it doesn’t absorb water, it won’t become a breeding ground of mold and mildew.
2. Plastic or PVC. This material is relatively cheaper compared to rubber and polyester. Moreover, it is more lightweight. It is also very easy to clean. All it takes is water and soap to remove all the dirt and debris that it has collected. It dries very fast so you can use it again as soon as it dries out. The only drawback of using this is the risk of melting it under the heat of the sun. Also, plastic easily cracks if there is a sudden change in temperature.
3. Carpet/polyester. Carpet or polyester step covers are very common. It is known to capture dirt and debris easily. Plus, it is easy to clean. Just use your vacuum cleaner to suck all the dirt stuck between the fibers. If there is mud or stain, just wash it by spraying water and soap on it.The bad thing about carpets is that once it has been washed, you have to wait until it dries out before you can use it again. Otherwise, the standing water will get into your soles and will spread out inside your RV. Also, since it absorbs water, it can be a good place for mold and mildew to develop. Make sure to expose it to the sun to make sure this doesn’t happen or use a blow-drier to dry it up faster.

Why Do You Need Step Covers For RV?

Step covers are not usually a priority for many new RV owners, but for the more experienced campers, RV step covers can be considered a life-saver in many ways.

If you are among the latter and are still a bit clueless about what it means to have a step rug on your camper van, here are a few reasons why you should get one for yourself.

• Safety is always the top priority

Through time, your RV steps could get worn out and lose its treads – making it very prone to accidents. People slipping or falling at your doorstep is not something you would want; to avoid this, add a step cover that provides enough traction so that people can get on and off your RV with ease.

• Keep unwanted particles outside the RV

As in any home or doorway, having a proper RV step mat can prevent dust, grime, and other particles from getting indoors. This definitely reduces your cleaning time and even keeps your interiors looking good as new.

• Keep the actual step in good condition

This is especially important if there is a possibility that you’d sell your RV in the future. If you want to maintain the value of your mobile home, keep it in tip-top shape by ensuring that every part of the RV is still looking brand-new through proper maintenance. As the step is usually the first one to wear out its treads, adding a layer of protection with an RV step rug could protect your RV step from discoloration or normal wear and tear.

• Add a little style

RV step mats come in a variety of colors and designs, and these rugs are a great way to customize the look of your camper van.

By simply adding a durable cover to your RV step, you can enjoy your RV to the fullest and actually give it a homey look and feel.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are good RV step cover brands?

There are many good brands of RV step covers in the market today. If you search it online, almost all of the products that you will encounter have good customer ratings. However, if you want to get only the best of the best, these brands are the only worth considering:

• Camco
• Kohree
• Safety Step
• Grubby Feet
• ARL Outdoors
• Prest-O-Fit

These brands have passed the standards not only of their company’s quality test but also of various RV owners across the United States. If you want to use the top-tier RV step covers, these brands are definitely worth including on your shopping list.

How to install RV step covers?

You don’t need to hire a professional just to install the cover of your RV steps. Although some rugs can be a bit tricky to place, you only need the right tools. Here are the basic steps in step covers installation:

1. Carefully measure the width of the rug against your steps. If the rug is too wide, cut it down to the right width.
2. Next, measure the length that you need. Some rugs come pre-cut, while others need to be cut down to the right size before being used. If your RV steps have rounded edges, check for RV radius step covers that are perfect for curved corners.
3. Insert the cable tie or the spring hook (whichever your step carpet comes with) through the hole in the front, then back to the hole in the rear.
4. Tighten the cable or hook by pulling fully.
5. Repeat the process for other holes and corresponding cable ties.

If your step cover includes cable ties, make sure to cut the excess ties to prevent it from causing accidents, and make your step carpet look nicely installed. Spring hooks need not be cut.

Are all RV step covers about the same?

No, not all camper stair covers are the same. First, they can vary in materials. For example, rubber RV step covers are more durable than carpets or rugs. Unfortunately, they might be less pleasing to look at and can detract from a motorhome’s aesthetics.

On the other hand, RV carpet step covers give motorhomes a more polished or higher-end look.

Second, manufacturing technologies have also improved over the years. Seasoned RVers say there was a time when an RV step cover only lasted less than a year. These products did not hold up well to abuse, requiring more frequent replacements than RV owners wanted.

Third, brand reputation can also differentiate good-quality RV step covers from mediocre ones. Trustworthy companies strive for perfection in every product release to avoid tarnishing their brand image. On the other hand, some businesses go for quick bucks by undermining sound manufacturing processes and quality procedures.

How to measure your RV steps for the new step cover?

Measuring the RV steps for a new rubber or carpet for RV steps is a straightforward process. One needs a tape measure to determine the step’s length and width.

Some RV owners use a ruler to measure the camper step dimensions. Unfortunately, it might not be as accurate as a tape measure because a ruler is typically shorter than the step’s length. The steps involve the following.

1. Anchor the tape measure’s leading edge on the RV step’s right or left side and extend it to the opposite side. Note the measurement, rounding it off to the nearest 1/8 inch.
2. Position the tape measure’s tip at the step’s back edge and extend it to the front. Consider rounding off the measurement.

Consider these measurements when looking for a new cover for main entry RV steps. Some products have elastic bands around the edges, allowing for a more effortless fit. It will be wise to check if the RV steps have rounded corners and pick only products with such features.

How long does the RV step cover last?

An RV step cover’s longevity depends on several factors, including materials, construction quality, and usage.

Rubber step covers are more durable than fabric options because they are sturdier, hardier, and more resilient.

On the other hand, step rugs for RV might only last three to four years. The Prest-O-Fit Ruggids can last five years because it features heavy-duty olefin or polypropylene fibers.

Usage can also impact an RV step cover’s lifespan. Frequent RV trips can increase step cover wear, while once-a-year RV adventures can see the shroud lasting up to a decade or more. Heavy people also compress the rugs more significantly than lighter RVers.

How to use it?

Once you have installed the step mats properly, you can simply use your steps as usual. You will notice the difference as there will be less slippage, and you won’t be bringing as much mud and dirt inside your camper as you used to.

How to take care of and clean RV step covers?

Caring for step rugs is as simple as cleaning outdoor rugs in your home, except that this one cannot be removed. Just use a hose to get rid of pebbles and other debris stuck in between the fibers. Some step rugs require scrubbing to be fully cleaned, while others don’t.

After hosing the dirt off, make sure you park your fifth wheel in such a way that the covers are exposed to the sun. This will help it get dry easily.

Where can I buy RV step covers?

RV step covers can be purchased in your favorite shops such as Wal-Mart, Lowes, and Ace Hardware. You can visit RV dealers, too. If the specific product that you are looking for is not available, you can also try shopping online. Amazon.com is a perfect online shop where you can launch your search to find the perfect step cover that you are looking for.

How to make RV step covers?

If you have a limited budget, the ideal thing to do is to make your own RV step cover. All you need are your regular old clothes, your sewing kit, and zippers or Velcro strips.

Here is how you can turn your unwanted clothes to an efficient step cover:

1. Choose a relatively large piece of clothing. Unwanted jeans made of denim would be nice.
2. Measure your RV steps. Cut the jeans according to the size of the steps. If you want, you can stitch the cloth in order to reinforce it.
3. Wrap the cloth around the step. Have the ends connect through a zipper or Velcro strips.
4. Repeat the procedure until all of the steps are covered.

You have to know, though, that a DIY RV step cover is not a great substitute to the real thing. Cleaning it would be more difficult because the dust and mud would really penetrate the fabric of the cloth, unlike the traditional step covers. But if your budget is more important than buying a new step cover, then this alternative would certainly do wonders in your RV.

Conclusion

It is true that there are literally hundreds of RV step cover brands in the market these days. However, not all RV step rugs in the market are created equal. It is also true that not all of them will give you the performance that you need. All RV step rug companies will tell you their product is the best RV step cover but only you will be able to determine if it is the right one for you.

Before you make a decision to purchase one, you have to be informed of their strengths and weaknesses first in order to maximize your money. Failure to do so would result in a huge waste of money, time, and effort. This is what this review is for – to help you understand each products’ features before you install them in your RV steps.

Now that you have an idea of what to look for in an RV step cover, you can now proceed and purchase the one that fits your needs.

William Turner

Hi, I am William Turner, a junior color consultant. My work is to create designs that make visual impacts as desired by clients. I am here to introduce you to the current color trends and combinations that create the right mood for your rooms.