What Soap to Use to Wash the RV? Which One to Choose?
What’s the best soap to use for washing my RV? Great question! As a fellow camping enthusiast who loves road-tripping in my recreational rig, keeping the exterior fresh and damage-free is tops on my list too. Well from firsthand experience, I can say not all soaps are right for the job. You have to be careful about the ingredients and cleaning methods so as not to strip wax protection or hurt decals and seals over time.
But the good news is there are specialty RV and marine soaps made just for safely cleaning our fiberglass, rubber, metal, and plastic beasties! Let me break down exactly what to look for in a good RV wash and my product recommendations so you can keep your baby looking showroom-ready!
Can You Use Any Type of Soap for Washing RV?
The short answer? No! Not all soaps are created equal when it comes to safely and effectively cleaning the variety of surfaces found on RVs.
Using the wrong soap can lead to premature fading, peeling decals, etching of the clearcoat, and seriously irritated skin from heavy stripping agents. And while the neighborhood power washer guy might get things looking squeaky clean, he could be doing more harm than good if relying on caustic chemicals and high pressure.
The good news? There are lots of specialty RV and marine soaps available that allow you to get great results without damage.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an RV Wash Soap
Ingredients
You’ll want an RV soap with an optimal ingredient profile to lift dirt and grime without stripping protective coatings or damaging exterior surfaces. Here are the key things to look for:
1. Surfactants – clean without stripping wax coatings
Surfactants are detergents responsible for loosening and suspending grease and dirt so they can be rinsed away. But you want milder types that clean without completely stripping existing wax layers which protect the RV’s clearcoat from oxidation and fading.
Look for non-ionic and amphoteric surfactants on the label, avoiding anything with strong anionic types like SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate). Meguiar’s Gold Class RV & Marine Soap has an excellent surfactant profile for safe frequent washing.
Low pH / mild alkaline levels – avoid damaging RV surfaces
In general, RV-safe soaps should have a neutral or just mildly alkaline pH between 7 and 10. Anything more caustic with a pH over 10 can damage fiberglass, decals, plastics, and other components.
You want enough alkalinity to effectively cut through road grime but not so much that it degrades the various exterior materials. Many RV-specific washes highlight their balanced pH levels as a selling point, like Camco Heavy Duty RV Wash which touts a pH of 8.5.
Finish / Surface Protection
The ideal RV soap not only cleans well but leaves behind surface protectants to maintain that fresh-from-the-showroom sheen over the long haul. Key ingredients to have on board include:
Waxes and polishers – prevent dulling and fading of RV paint and decals over time
Quality RV soaps contain gentle polishing agents and carnauba or other waxes that enhance gloss while protecting the finish. This added protection prevents the dulling, oxidation, and fading over time caused by the elements.
Microscopic wax particles scatter and reflect light to keep your coach looking deeper and richer between more involved wax jobs. Protectants bond to surfaces during washing so regular use ensures ongoing protection.
Conditioners – maintain plastic and rubber seals
Special conditioners fortify surfaces like plastic, rubber, and vinyl against UV damage while keeping them supple. This maintains seals and gaskets around slide-outs, windows, doors, vents, and openings that can otherwise get brittle and crack over time.
Conditioning agents also prevent black streaking on the RV exterior caused by dirt accumulation on weathered surfaces. Regular washing maintains appearance and flexibility for the long term.
RV Wash Soap Recommendations
Now that you know what to look for in an RV-friendly soap formula, here are some excellent products to consider using based on wash location:
For Body
Meguiar’s Ultimate Wash & Wax
Formulation: Liquid
pH level: Neutral
Suitable for: Gelcoat, fiberglass, painted finishes
Key features:
- Provides a deep clean and shine
- Adds protection with carnauba wax
- Safe for use on all RV surfaces
303 RV Wash & Seal
Formulation: Liquid
pH level: Neutral
Suitable for: All RV finishes
Key features:
- Removes dirt, grime, and mildew
- Leaves a streak-free finish
- Provides UV protection
Chemical Guys Maxi-Suds II
Formulation: Concentrate
pH level: Neutral
Suitable for: All RV finishes
Key features:
- High-foaming formula for tough dirt and grime
- Rinses clean without stripping wax or sealant
- Biodegradable formula
For Roof
EPDM Rubber Roofs
EPDM rubber roofs are the most common type of RV roof. They are made of a durable synthetic rubber material that is resistant to UV rays, heat, and chemicals. EPDM rubber roofs are also relatively easy to clean and maintain.
Recommended Soaps for EPDM Rubber Roofs:
Dicor Rubber Roof Cleaner: This is a mild, non-detergent cleaner that is specifically designed for EPDM rubber roofs. It will remove dirt, grime, and mildew without harming the roof’s sealant.
Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner: This is a biodegradable cleaner that can be used on a variety of surfaces, including EPDM rubber roofs. It is effective at removing dirt, grime, and mildew, but it is important to rinse it thoroughly to prevent streaking.
TPO Roofs
TPO roofs are a newer type of RV roof that is becoming increasingly popular. They are made of a thermoplastic olefin (TPO) material that is lighter and more durable than EPDM rubber. TPO roofs are also resistant to UV rays, heat, and chemicals.
Recommended Soaps for TPO Roofs:
Star Brite RV Roof Cleaner: This is a non-abrasive cleaner that is safe for both EPDM and TPO roofs. It is effective at removing dirt, grime, and mildew, and it is also biodegradable.
Murphy’s Oil Soap: It is a mild, biodegradable soap that is safe for use on all RV surfaces. It is effective at removing dirt, grime, and mildew without harming the RV’s finish. A medium-soft brush will help to remove stubborn dirt and grime without scratching the RV’s surface.
These soaps check the boxes when it comes to being pH balanced, free of damaging agents like bleach or ammonia, and containing slickening conditioners and gloss boosters. It’s just a matter of your preference and washing needs.
Many can pull double duty on both the roof AND body but some niche roof formulas give that extra attention to surfaces with regular sun and environmental exposure. All will leave your rig sparkling!
Using RV Wash Soaps
Once you’ve selected an appropriate RV-friendly soap, proper technique is also key for good results without damage:
Application – hand wash, sponge, microfiber mitt
Even with a mild soap, you’ll still want to use a gentle hand application instead of more harsh automatic car washes. Sponges, microfiber mitts, soft brushes, or just your hand-applied solution without much pressure to avoid scratching.
Work from the top down and do sections at a time for the soap’s lubricants to cling best before rinsing. Take care of graphics, decals, and fragile areas. No heavy scrubbing is needed with a quality soap!
Dilution – soaps vary but often need to dilute with water
Pay attention to any dilution instructions on your soap bottle based on the wash location and how dirty the RV is. Many require diluting cleaners anywhere from 10:1 up to 50:1 with fresh water before applying.
Start with manufacturer-recommended ratios but adjust to more or less soapiness as needed. Only use full strength on really stubborn buildup in small areas after testing first. Proper dilution preserves protection.
Rinsing – thorough rinse to avoid residue
You’ll want to thoroughly rinse panels with a directed pressure spray after washing to remove all soap residue. Leftover suds allowed to air dry on surfaces can lead to water spotting or chemical etching over time.
Work top to bottom when rinsing just like washing, hosing away any lingering dirt and soap film until the water sheets are cleanly off the RV sides with no beading or streaking. Your wash job’s not complete until all residue lifts!
Additional Tips for Washing an RV
- Wash from the top-down and work in sections for best results.
This will help to prevent dirt and grime from running down the RV and staining the finish. It is also easier to manage the cleaning process if you break it down into smaller sections.
- Rinse often to prevent gritty soap residue from causing scratches.
As you are washing the RV, it is important to rinse it often to remove any soap residue. Soap residue can be gritty and can scratch the RV’s finish if it is not rinsed away.
Use the right applicator – sheepskin mitt, soft sponge, or just your hand.
Avoid using abrasive materials such as brushes or scouring pads, as these can scratch the RV’s finish. Instead, use a soft applicator such as a sheepskin mitt, soft sponge, or even just your hand.
- Opt for shade over direct sun whenever possible.
Washing your RV in the shade will help to prevent the water from drying too quickly and causing water spots. If you cannot wash your RV in the shade, try to wash it early in the morning or late in the evening when the sun is not as strong.
- Wash when surfaces are cool to the touch to prevent water spotting.
Water spots are caused by the water drying too quickly on the RV’s surface. To prevent water spots, wash your RV when the surfaces are cool to the touch. This is usually early in the morning or late in the evening.
- Wax at least annually for added protection between washes.
Waxing your RV will help to protect the finish from the elements and make it easier to clean next time. It is recommended to wax your RV at least annually, or more often if it is exposed to harsh conditions.
There You Have It –
everything you need for sparkling RV cleanliness success using the right suds for the job! Give one of my recommended soaps a try and let that baby shine.
Your RV worked hard to deliver amazing adventures, so treat it to some TLC. And next time someone compliments your rig’s showroom looks, you’ll know your wash day secrets!
Feel free to leave a comment below if you have any other RV wash soap tricks I missed! Until next time, happy camping my friends!
Questions and Answers
What is the best RV wash and wax?
Protect All RV Wash and Wax is one of the best choices for both cleaning and protecting your RV in one easy step. Its slick formula cuts through dirt and grime while gentle carnauba wax protects as it cleans.
Can I use dish soap to wash my RV?
It’s best to avoid household dish detergents which tend to be quite alkaline and strip wax protection. Stick to specialty RV washes designed for vehicles instead.
How often should I wash my RV?
Ideally, you should wash a used RV at least every other month when in regular use to prevent heavy buildup of dirt, grime, and environmental contaminants that become harder to remove over time and can damage surfaces.
What’s the best way to wash an RV roof?
Use a ladder or telescoping pole to apply RV roof wash soap without climbing on top. Focus on areas with heavier dirt buildup but avoid harsh scrubbing. Rinse thoroughly and allow to dry before sealing or treating again.
Is it okay to wash and wax an RV in direct sunlight?
It’s best to wash and wax your RV in the shade whenever possible. The direct hot sun can lead to soap and water residue spotting on hot surfaces before you have a chance to thoroughly rinse the soap and grime away. Cool surfaces lead to streak-free results.
