We once had an RV owner in Texas tell us, “I didn’t realize how much damage I was doing by using the wrong stuff—until my decals started peeling and my seals cracked.”
That’s the thing with RV cleaning: it’s not just about keeping things shiny. It’s about protecting your investment, preventing expensive damage, and creating a rig that still smells fresh and looks great—even after miles of adventure or back-to-back rentals.
Whether you’re a weekend warrior or managing a rental unit, here are the top products that make cleaning easier and protection smarter.
1. Why the Right Products Matter
You can’t treat your RV like a regular house or car. Household bleach, dish soap, or generic “all-purpose” cleaners can strip wax, dry out rubber, and ruin your surfaces.
Real example: One couple used regular car wax on their Class C. It left streaks and took hours to buff out—only to fade a month later.
Lesson: Use products made for RVs. They’re worth every penny.
2. Best Exterior Wash Soaps
Skip the dish detergent. Use RV-safe soap that protects paint and won’t strip sealants.
Top Picks:
- Meguiar’s RV Wash & Wax
- Thetford Premium RV Wash
Pro Tip: Use a soft brush and wash in the shade to avoid water spots.
3. Waxes & UV Protectants
Think of these as sunscreen for your RV. They protect paint, trim, and even window seals from sun damage.
Favorites:
- 303 Aerospace Protectant (for rubber and vinyl)
- Aero Cosmetics Wash Wax ALL
Real example: A rental owner in Arizona applies UV protectant every 3 months. His 7-year-old rig still looks brand new in photos.
4. Roof Cleaners & Conditioners
RV roofs are often ignored—until they leak. Don’t let that happen.
Recommended:
- Dicor Roof Cleaner & Conditioner
- Camco Pro-Tec System
Pro Tip: Clean the roof seasonally. Pay attention to skylight edges, seams, and vents.
5. Slide & Awning Care
Slides and awnings need lubrication and mildew prevention to stay smooth and mold-free.
Go-To Products:
- Camco Slide-Out Lube
- 303 Multi-Surface Cleaner (for awnings)
- Thetford Rubber Seal Conditioner
6. Interior Surface Cleaners
Inside, less is more. Gentle, plant-based cleaners protect finishes and keep the space renter-friendly.
Best Choices:
- Mrs. Meyer’s Multi-Surface Cleaner
- Method Wood Cleaner (for cabinetry)
- Aero Cosmetics Interior Cleaner
7. Toilet & Tank Treatments
Avoid “RV bathroom smell” and keep your tanks clog-free.
Trusted Brands:
- Walex Porta-Pak
- Camco TST Orange
- Happy Camper Tank Treatment
Tip: Always flush and retreat tanks after each trip or rental.
8. Mold, Mildew & Odor Control
Storage and damp air cause smells fast. Prevent them with moisture control.
Recommended:
- DampRid Moisture Absorbers
- Moso Natural Charcoal Bags
- OdoBan for tough smells
Example: One owner hangs two DampRid bags in her rig during the winter. No musty smell, ever.
9. RVM’s Core Cleaning Kit
Want the essentials? Here’s what we recommend every RV owner keeps stocked:
✅ RV Wash & Wax (like Meguiar’s)
✅ 303 UV Protectant
✅ Slide-Out Lube
✅ Porta-Paks
✅ DampRid
✅ Microfiber towels
✅ Non-slip cleaning bucket
Final Thoughts: Small Products, Big Protection
You don’t need 20 bottles. Just the right 7–8 products will protect your RV from rust, leaks, mildew, fading, and wear.
Whether you’re prepping for storage or handing off to a renter, smart cleaning habits and the best products save time, reduce repairs, and keep your RV looking—and feeling—like new.
Need help building your custom cleaning kit? We’re happy to help.
— The RVM Team
