Do you want to pay someone to wash your RV for you? I sure don’t blame you. Washing an RV or even a camper van can be quite the chore. Even if you normally wash it yourself, it’s nice to have it professionally done once in a while.
Quite a few RV repair shops and dealers have on-site RV washing stations. Some offer washing services to the public, including detailing options.
But, even if they don’t wash RVs on-site, they are one of the best resources to find a washing location nearby. A quick call to a local RV mechanic or dealer can save you a lot of searching online.
You know how there are mobile pet groomers that come to you? Well, guess what! There’s a version of that for RV grooming… I mean washing.
They are most commonly known as “Mobile RV Wash & Wax” or “Mobile RV Detailing” so I recommend searching for those terms specifically.
Just be aware of campground regulations if you’re hoping they’ll come there. Some campgrounds allow it, while others do not. This actually brings me to my next suggestion…
Just like dealers are a good resource, so are campgrounds. They’ll likely be able to direct you to both self-serve and professional washing locations.
Better yet, many campgrounds have a go-to mobile RV washer and detailer. Oftentimes, you’ll get the best deal going with their guy than anyone else.
Pro Tip: Before calling a mobile RV wash service, ask nearby RVers if they want a wash, too. You might be able to get a group discount.
Are you interested in washing your own RV, but do not know where to start? Whether you want to save the money or were unable to find a place that will wash it for you, don’t worry. You can easily wash it yourself!
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RV roofs are tricky. Some you can walk on, some you can’t. So before ever stepping foot onto your roof, check first with your dealer or manual.
RV roofs come in two types: fiberglass or rubber. For cleaning a rubber roof, use a rubber roof cleaning product.
Fiberglass roofs can be easily cleaned. And most likely by the same product that you use on the rest of the vehicle.
If you are unsure of the type of RV roof you have, refer to your manual or contact your dealer to find out. And check out this post: Best RV Roof Cleaner (3 Top Picks 2022)
Washing your awning is pretty simple, but you do want to be careful. Most awnings only get dusty from camping, so they just need to be hosed off.
Scrubbing it can loosen the fabric or finish of the awning, so it should be avoided.
If you have a stubborn stain, many cleaners can sit on them for a while to loosen that dirt. Then you can simply rinse it off. Just be sure to check the cleaning instructions so that you do not damage the awning fabric.
I have a list of the Best RV Awning Cleaners you should check out.
RV washing service near meTo wash the wheels, it’s best to buy a wheel and rim cleaning product. Most RV wheels usually have aluminum wheel covers, painted rims or chrome rims. Be sure to find one that can work for your vehicle’s wheels.
Doors, windows and slide-outs all come with flexible weather sealant or gasket. They are made from rubber, and are meant to keep out the elements from your RV.
Cleaning these gaskets and weather seals can help keep them from deteriorating.
To properly clean these, use a silicone-based cleaner. This can help extend their life by preventing them from drying out. Many of these cleaners are sprays, and do not require any wiping.
Whether you continuously use your RV throughout the year or only take a trip or two, performing regular maintenance on your RV is an essential part of retaining its value. And a big part of RV maintenance is the frequent washing of the vehicle’s exterior.
Washing the exterior of the RV provides many benefits. By removing the mud, dirt, salt, and rain from the vehicle, you avoid the corrosion, staining, and chemical spotting that the minerals in these elements can cause to the finishes and surfaces. Keeping your RV clean improves the exterior condition of your vehicle. It allows you to drive the vehicle when needed safely. A clean and well-maintained RV enhances the value of the vehicle and provides you with the pride of owning such a well-maintained vehicle.
How often you wash your RV depends on where it is stored and how often you take it out on the road. If you use your RV continually, you may need to wash it every month or every trip to keep it in top shape. Somewhat regular use may require that the RV be cleaned every three months. It is best to wash your RV at least twice a year. At the very least, wash your RV once a year, even if it is stored in a protected environment.
How often you wash your RV depends on where it is stored and how often you take it out on the road. If you use your RV continually, you may need to wash it every month or every trip to keep it in top shape. Somewhat regular use may require that the RV be cleaned every three months. It is best to wash your RV at least twice a year. At the very least, wash your RV once a year, even if it is stored in a protected environment.
There are three ways you can wash your RV – run your RV through an automatic RV/truck wash, have a mobile RV detailing company come to your home or storage location, or wash your RV yourself.
It is not recommended to use an automatic car wash to clean your RV. Many car washes cannot accommodate the RV’s height and length. If you want to use an automatic wash, go to a truck and RV wash. You can use the Internet to find one near your location. You can also contact your nearest RV dealership and ask it for a recommendation.
If you use an automatic or truck wash to clean the exterior of your RV, remove any items attached to your RV such as bikes and other recreational equipment. Ensure the doors and windows are closed completely and don’t forget to check the roof vents.
There are benefits to washing your RV. This is the least expensive way to keep your RV clean and in good working order. Also, cleaning your RV allows you to simultaneously inspect the vehicle and make sure that the seams, vents, and windows have tight seals, and the attachments are securely fastened.
Before you turn on the water, park your RV on a level surface out of direct sunlight and sweep off any debris. Check your owner’s manual for specific cleaning instructions for your vehicle. Learn the type of materials used to construct your RV, recommended cleaning solutions and tools, and whether or not the roof can be walked on. Gather your supplies: ladder, mop, buckets, brushes, sponges, squeegees, washing mitts, cleaning cloths and solutions, and wash your RV in this order – roof, sides, windows, awnings, and tires.
Be extremely careful if you choose to wash your RV with a pressure washer. Using the pressure washer too close to the vehicle or at too high a setting can cause a lot of damage. The pressure washer can remove paint and decals, loosen and break seals, tear awnings, and push water inside the cabin through seams, gaskets, and rivets.
Using dish soap in place of an RV washing solution is not recommended as the dish soap may remove the gel and wax coatings that protect the vehicle.
Different Washing Methods for Different RVs
Exterior RV roof and side surfaces typically are constructed from rubber, metal or fiberglass. An RV surface made of rubber, typically referred to as EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) or TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin), is durable, but you should not use abrasive or acidic (often citrus-based) cleansers or any products that contain petroleum distillate as they can break down the rubber.
