RV Cleaning Tips: Exterior

Nothing stays clean for long including your recreational vehicle. A recently washed RV just begs for a thunderstorm or sand storm to blow through.

A recently washed RV just begs for a thunderstorm. © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Regular RV cleaning is important for the maintenance and longevity of your RV. The following are a few RV cleaning tips to use the next time you clean and maintain your RV.

Since there are myriad RV cleaning products on the market, choosing the one for your RV exterior can be a challenge.

Opt for a high-quality cleaner that will help make the finish on your RV last longer. Some cleaners are created for special purposes such as cleaning awnings or rubber roofs, but others can be used for a variety of cleaning applications inside and outside your coach. The best solution is an RV cleaner with several applications to save your pocketbook.

It’s best to clean the RV from the top down. First, head up on the RV roof. Inspect the sealant around the roof vents, air conditioner, and all roof seams for signs of cracks or deterioration.

Open awnings and check for frayed or ripped material. Remove stains and mildew with special awning cleaner and allow to dry before rolling back up. Next clean the RV side walls and back using a standard RV washing soap. Remove dirt, bugs, tar, and other road residue from the surface of your RV. Inspect the side walls and around windows and doors for cracks or voids in the seams and seals. Scrape and reseal any affected areas with the appropriate sealant.

The front of the RV including side mirrors, whether a trailer fiberglass cap or motorhome, demands more specialized cleaning. This is where the bug abuse takes place. A good defense against super stuck on bug guts is a well waxed front cap. A super absorbent microfiber sponge is a proven product for lint-, streak- and scratch-free cleaning.

Clean your RV as soon as possible after each trip using high-quality cleaning supplies that won’t scratch or mar the RV surface. Use soft, natural cotton washing cloths and soaps and cleansers made specifically for RVs. Don’t forget to look through Camping World’s vast selection of cleaning tools and supplies for your RV.

After a general clean with the soap and water it’s time to wax the beast. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for your particular RV. And finally, admire a great job well done.