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Top 5 Picks: Best RV Wash and Wax for a Gleaming Finish

Updated on January 28, 2024

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When it comes to the best RV wash and wax for your rig, finding a product that efficiently cleans and protects your vehicle is essential. This guide will delve into a range of choices, from well-regarded commercial items to natural options and DIY techniques.

We’ll dive into detailed reviews of our top 5 picks for convenience-focused RV washes and waxes, examining their triple-action formulas, water spot prevention features, and protective layers that extend the life of your recreational vehicle.

ImageProduct
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  • Cleans black streaks
  • Water-repellent finish
  • Protects against UV light
  • Biodegradable
  • Cleans black streaks
  • Water-repellent finish
  • Protects against UV light
  • Biodegradable
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  • Aircraft-grade waterless car wash and wax
  • Eco-friendly, biodegradable formula
  • Safe for all vehicle surfaces
  • Aircraft-grade waterless car wash and wax
  • Eco-friendly, biodegradable formula
  • Safe for all vehicle surfaces
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digital-business-prep-table__image
  • Quickly removes dirt, grime, and water spots
  • Leaves a streak-free, shiny surface
  • Safe for boats, RVs, cars, and trucks
  • Quickly removes dirt, grime, and water spots
  • Leaves a streak-free, shiny surface
  • Safe for boats, RVs, cars, and trucks
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  • One-step cleaner
  • Concentrated formula
  • UV protection
  • Non-toxic and biodegradable
  • One-step cleaner
  • Concentrated formula
  • UV protection
  • Non-toxic and biodegradable
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  • Cleans and Waxes
  • Contains Carnauba Wax
  • Biodegradable
  • No Streaking
  • Cleans and Waxes
  • Contains Carnauba Wax
  • Biodegradable
  • No Streaking
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Our Overall #1 Rated Pick

Updated On April 25, 2024

Our #1 Rated Pick: Thetford Premium RV Wash and Wax

The Thetford Premium RV Wash and Wax is a versatile cleaning solution for your vehicles. It works effectively on cars, RVs, motorcycles, boats, ATVs, snowmobiles, and more. Not only does it clean surfaces, but it also protects them by leaving a non-oily, anti-static, and water-repellent finish.

This 2-in-1 formula removes dirt, road film, dried bugs, and bird droppings while coating the surface with a protective shine. The biodegradable, non-abrasive formula is safe on clear coats and expensive paint jobs. It provides an added layer of safety by protecting against harmful UV light, which can cause fading over time. This product ensures that maintaining your vehicle’s cleanliness doesn’t compromise its aesthetics or integrity.

Our Top Best RV Wash and Wax Picks

Are you in a hurry and want to cut to the chase on your best options? Check out our top 5 RV washes and waxes reviews below! Then, keep reading to discover more about why we chose them for you.

The Importance of Regular RV Cleaning

Ever wonder why your RV buddies emphasize the significance of maintaining a pristine RV? It’s not solely about having a good-looking RV but also about protecting your investment.

Consider your RV as a superhero, warding off adversaries such as bird droppings, road tar, and winter salt. Regular cleaning is its secret weapon – with particular attention to washing your RV awning.

Nature’s Impact on Your RV Exterior

Nature can be harsh on our vehicles, especially when they’re parked outside for long periods. Elements like bird droppings, road tar, and salt can wreak havoc on your RV’s surfaces.

Potential Damage from Nature and How to Fight Back

  • Cleaning off bird droppings immediately prevents paint discoloration due to their acidic content.
  • Removing road tar ensures smooth running and prevents premature wear on parts like tires.
  • Rinsing off the salt after winter trips is crucial to prevent corrosion on metal components, especially the undercarriage.

Now, let’s dive into how to effectively tackle these cleaning tasks without causing any further damage. Stay tuned for the next section.

Key Takeaway: A successful RV wash begins with thoughtful preparation and a solid understanding of your vehicle’s exterior needs. This includes selecting an optimal washing location with easy water access, good drainage, and shade to prevent sun-induced soap spots, as well as choosing the right cleaning solution based on your owner’s manual or opting for a mild car washing soap.

Preparing for Your RV Wash

When it comes to keeping your RV spick and span, a little planning goes a long way.

An RV wash that shines starts with proper preparation and an understanding of your vehicle’s exterior needs.

Picking the Perfect Spot for Washing

Choose a primo location with easy access to water and good drainage. Park on solid ground near a water spigot, and if you can, find some shade to avoid those pesky soap spots caused by the sun.

Selecting an Appropriate Cleaning Solution

Now it’s time to choose the right cleaning solution. Check your owner’s manual for recommendations, or if you’re feeling adventurous, a mild car washing soap usually does the trick. And remember, a little research goes a long way.

5 Essential Supplies for an Effective RV Wash

Gearing up for a thorough RV wash? You’ll need the right tools.

  1. A pressure washer or water hose – This is your first line of defense against dirt and grime. A pressure washer can blast away stubborn stains, while a standard garden hose works well for lighter cleaning tasks.
  2. A sponge or mitt – This helps distribute soap evenly across your RV’s exterior. Remember to use one that’s soft enough not to scratch the paint.
  3. Easy access to all parts – You’ll want to reach every nook and cranny, including the rubber roof atop. If you have a rubber roof, it requires special care with a specialized rubber roof cleaner to maintain its longevity and prevent damage from harsh elements.
  4. An RV-specific wash-and-wax product – After washing, it’s time to wax. Opt for an RV-specific product that offers protection and a deep clean effect.
  5. A microfiber cloth – Finally, dry off using a microfiber cloth. They’re excellent at absorbing moisture and preventing those pesky soap spots after rinsing.

Remember, you can find these supplies at any local RV dealership that offers RV services.

Now we’re ready. In our next section, let’s dive into how exactly you should go about giving your beloved home-on-wheels its much-needed bath.

Key Takeaway: To ensure an effective RV wash, five essential tools are recommended: a pressure washer or water hose for powerful dirt and grime removal; a soft sponge or mitt to evenly distribute soap; easy access to all parts of your vehicle, including the use of specialized rubber roof cleaner if needed; an RV-specific wash-and-wax product for post-wash protection and deep cleaning; and a microfiber cloth for drying off and preventing soap spots. These supplies can be found at any local RV dealership offering services.

Step-by-Step Guide to Washing Your RV Exterior Regularly

Ready for an RV wash? Let’s get started.

  1. The first step is simple: rinse away loose dirt and grime with a pressure washer or hose. It’s like giving your RV a refreshing shower.
  2. Now, let’s suds up your vehicle.
  3. Grab a soft brush or mitt and your favorite cleaning solution. If you have a rubber roof, don’t forget to use a specialized rubber roof cleaner. Safety first.
  4. Begin scrubbing from the top and continue in a downward direction. This way, any dirty water will flow down without messing up the areas you’ve already cleaned. It’s all about that downward flow, baby.
  5. Rinse off the soap thoroughly. We don’t want any soap spots, do we? Those pesky spots happen when soapy water dries before being rinsed off completely – bye-bye, soap spots.
  6. Feeling adventurous? How about adding a wax application after the rinse? A quality wash-and-wax product will give your RV’s exterior a shiny new look and protect it from the elements – double win.

Remember, consistency is key. Regularly following these steps will keep your mobile home looking its best and extend its lifespan. Your RV will thank you.

Dealing With Restrictions And Seeking Professional Help

It’s not always sunshine and rainbows in the world of RV cleaning.

Sometimes, self-washes aren’t allowed due to restrictions by local authorities or property management companies.

Bummer, right? Fear not.

You possess techniques available that can aid you in overcoming these obstacles efficiently.

Truck Wash Stations: Your Go-To Solution

If washing an RV is a no-go where you’re parked, consider visiting truck wash stations like Blue Beacon Truck Wash.

Hiring Mobile Cleaning Services

The convenience offered by mobile rv cleaning service providers cannot be overstated. They come equipped with all the necessary tools, including pressure washing equipment, and deliver top-notch services without violating any rules set by local authorities.

Let professionals do their magic while you sit back and relax. Next up? Maintaining this pristine cleanliness after every adventure trip.

Key Takeaway: Navigating restrictions on self-washing RVs imposed by local authorities or property managers can be efficiently managed through alternatives like truck wash stations or hiring mobile cleaning services. These solutions, such as the Blue Beacon Truck Wash station and professional mobile cleaners equipped with necessary tools, ensure top-notch services that align with regulations while delivering a pristine clean for your vehicle.

Maintaining Your Cleaned RV Exterior

Now that you’ve given your vehicle a thorough RV wash, the journey doesn’t end there.

Your freshly cleaned exterior requires regular maintenance to stay in top-notch condition.

This is where our fellow RV friends come into play with their tried and tested methods of upkeep after each adventurous trip.

A Regular Check-Up Routine

Just like how we humans need routine health check-ups, so does your mobile home on wheels.

RV Dealers recommends conducting a quick inspection every time before hitting the road.

Sharing Insights From the RV Community and Experts

Tap into the wealth of knowledge available to those new to RVing with these tips from fellow RVers.

  • Rinse off your RV after each trip to maintain that fresh-from-the-dealership look.
  • Try a wash-and-wax product for a deep clean and added protection.
  • Don’t forget to clean those hard-to-reach spots like under awnings and behind tires.

The Expert Angle: Advice from Professionals at Local Dealerships

We reached out to professionals who offer RV services, and here’s what they had to say:

  • “Regular maintenance extends the life of an RV significantly,” says John, manager at a local dealership. “Don’t skip those washes.”
  • Susan, an expert in mobile RV cleaning services, recommends using a specialized rubber roof cleaner if applicable. “A soft bristle brush works wonders without causing any harm.”

Review of the Best RV Washes & Waxes

Now let’s explore our favorite RV washes and waxes so you can decide on the perfect choice.

Our #1 Rated Pick: Thetford Premium RV Wash and Wax

The Thetford Premium RV Wash and Wax is a versatile cleaning solution for your vehicles. It works effectively on cars, RVs, motorcycles, boats, ATVs, snowmobiles, and more. Not only does it clean surfaces, but it also protects them by leaving a non-oily, anti-static, and water-repellent finish.

This 2-in-1 formula removes dirt, road film, dried bugs, and bird droppings while coating the surface with a protective shine. The biodegradable, non-abrasive formula is safe on clear coats and expensive paint jobs. It provides an added layer of safety by protecting against harmful UV light, which can cause fading over time. This product ensures that maintaining your vehicle’s cleanliness doesn’t compromise its aesthetics or integrity.

Pros

  • Versatile for various vehicles
  • Cleans and protects surfaces
  • Safe on clear coats

Cons

  • Chemical-like smell
  • Doesn’t remove all streaks
  • Strips off previous shine

Our #2 Rated Pick: Aero Cosmetics Wet or Waterless Car Wash Wax Kit

The Wet or Waterless Car Wash Wax Kit is a versatile and high-quality cleaning solution for your car, RV, boat, or motorcycle. This kit comes with a 144 oz bottle of wash wax that can be used wet or dry to clean and protect your vehicle’s surfaces. The formula gently cleans while leaving a non-stick UV protective coating on all vehicle surfaces both inside and out.

This product is not only compatible with all other waxes, sealants, and ceramic coatings but also safe on ALL interior surfaces including leather, vinyl, plastic & glass. It boasts the same high-performance aircraft quality wax used by Air Force One, Marine One, NASA among others for over 35 years – guaranteeing you an exceptional shine every time. With this kit at hand you can wash and wax anywhere anytime; from parking lots to garages to RV parks making it highly convenient for users.

Pros

  • Aircraft-grade quality
  • Waterless application
  • Eco-friendly formula

Cons

  • Higher price point
  • Broken sprayer issues
  • Frequent reapplication needed

Our #3 Rated Pick: Biokleen M01109 Super Suds RV Wash

The Biokleen M01109 Super Suds RV Wash is a high-performing cleaner that quickly removes scum lines, dirt, grime, insects and water spots from your vehicle. This powerful product comes in a 1-gallon jug making it an economical choice for frequent users. It produces rich foam that rinses freely, leaving behind a clean surface without any streaks.

What sets this RV wash apart is its ability to cleanse without stripping away the existing polish or sealant on your vehicle. On top of its effective cleaning capabilities, it also incorporates special polymers that leave added protection and shine on the surface after each wash. Ideal for use on boats, RVs, planes, trains, bus fleets as well as cars and trucks; this versatile product is an excellent addition to your cleaning arsenal.

Pros

  • Effective cleaning
  • Streak-free finish
  • Biodegradable formula

Cons

  • Requires heavy scrubbing
  • Not very shiny
  • Pricey option

Our #4 Rated Pick: STAR BRITE RV Wash & Wax

The STAR BRITE RV Wash & Wax w/PTEF (71500) is a one-step concentrated cleaner that cleans and enhances the shine of your recreational vehicle in just one application. It’s specifically formulated to remove road grime, bug debris, dust, mud and more without harming decals or removing wax or polish.

This product is not only tough on dirt but also economical to use; a few capfuls are enough to clean a full-size RV. The added PTEF polymers enhance shine and provide UV protection to help prevent fading from sun exposure. Moreover, this biodegradable formula is safe for all exterior RV surfaces making it an environmentally friendly choice for maintaining your vehicle’s cleanliness and appearance.

Pros

  • Adds shine
  • Removes oxidation
  • Smells good

Cons

  • Loses suds
  • Leaves film
  • Leaky package

Our #5 Rated Pick: Gel-Gloss RV Wash and Wax

The Gel-Gloss RV Wash and Wax is a superior cleaning solution for your recreational vehicle. This highly concentrated wash is made from bar soap, making it phosphate-free and biodegradable. It’s a 3-in-1 product that cleans, protects, and shines the RV exterior surface without leaving streaks or water spots.

The product contains carnauba wax which provides great protection to your vehicle’s exterior. A single quart of this economical formula can produce up to 16 gallons of cleaner, ideal for periodic applications to maintain the like-new look of your rig. The Gel-Gloss RV Wash and Wax does not remove previously applied wax ensuring long-lasting shine and protection on every use.

Pros

  • Effective cleaning
  • Leaves shine
  • Long-lasting results

Cons

  • Mixed cleaning results
  • Inadequate streak removal
  • Leaky packaging

FAQs in Relation to Best Rv Washes

What is the best thing to wash an RV with?

The best thing to wash an RV with is a high-quality, specialized cleaner designed for motorhomes. Thetford Premium RV Wash and Wax, Bio-Kleen M00307 Marine/RV Gel Coat Cleaner & Wax, and eco-friendly alternatives are all excellent options that effectively remove dirt, grime, and bugs while providing protection against water spots and UV damage. Using a soft-bristle brush or microfiber cloth ensures gentle cleaning without scratching the surface.

What is the best RV wash for aluminum siding?

The best RV wash for aluminum siding is one that’s specifically formulated to clean and protect metal surfaces without causing corrosion or discoloration. Meguiar’s M5401 Marine/RV One Step Cleaner Wax can be an ideal choice as it cleans, polishes, and protects in one step while being safe on aluminum surfaces. Always follow manufacturer instructions when using any product on your vehicle.

What is the best DIY RV wash?

A simple yet effective DIY RV wash solution consists of mixing 1 cup of mild liquid dish soap (like Dawn) with 4 gallons of water in a bucket. This mixture will help remove dirt and grime from your motorhome’s exterior without damaging its finish. For added shine after washing, you can use a homemade spray wax made by combining equal parts distilled white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.

What is the best RV wash to remove black streaks?

To effectively remove black streaks from your motorhome’s exterior surface, consider using Camco Pro-Strength Black Streak Remover which has been specially formulated for this purpose. It quickly removes stubborn stains caused by dirt build-up or oxidation while remaining safe on various types of materials, including fiberglass exteriors.

Conclusion

After reading about the top RV washes and waxes, it’s clear that there are many options available for keeping your motorhome clean and protected. No matter your inclination, you can find a solution to keep your recreational vehicle in tip-top shape. It’s important to maintain your RV’s exterior finish with consistent upkeep and proper techniques for washing and waxing.

If you’re looking for the best RV washes on the market, consider trying one of our recommended products today.

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<span style="color: #01343d">About</span> Editorial Staff

About Editorial Staff

We’re passionate about all things RV and camper, and love sharing tips, “how-to”, and reviewing the latest products to help make your camping experience a success!

<span style="color: #01343d">About</span> Editorial Staff

About Editorial Staff

We’re passionate about all things RV and camper, and love sharing tips, “how-to”, and reviewing the latest products to help make your camping experience a success!

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