“Motorhome washing” is an essential task for maintaining the appearance and value of your vehicle. Whether you own a Class A, B, or C motorhome, knowing how to wash it properly and understanding the cost of washing motorhomes can help you make informed decisions. In this guide, we’ll break down the costs associated with washing motorhomes of different sizes and provide tips for both DIY and professional cleaning. Keeping your motorhome clean not only enhances its appearance but also extends its lifespan. Follow these simple yet effective steps to wash your motorhome like a pro!
Step 1: Gather the Right Tools
Before starting, ensure you have the essentials products:
Focus on seams, windows, and decals to prevent dirt buildup.
Step 5: Pay Attention to Windows and Mirrors
Clean windows with a streak-free glass cleaner.
Use a microfiber cloth for a polished finish.
Don’t forget side mirrors—they’re crucial for safe driving.
Step 6: Rinse and Dry
Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue.
Use a chamois or microfiber towel to dry surfaces.
This prevents water spots and maintains a shiny finish.
Step 7: Inspect and Protect
Check for damage, rust, or peeling decals after washing.
Apply wax or protective coating to preserve the exterior.
Clean and lubricate awnings for long-term care.
Pro Tips for Motorhome Washing Success
Wash your motorhome in the shade to avoid soap drying too quickly.
Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage paint and seals.
Clean regularly to prevent stubborn stains and grime buildup.
Item
Purpose
Estimated Price Range (USD)
Tips for Selection
Motorhome-Safe Soap
Gentle cleaner for paint, decals, and seals.
$10–$20 per gallon
Look for biodegradable and RV-specific options.
Roof Cleaner
Cleans rubber, fiberglass, or aluminum roofs.
$15–$30 per bottle
Choose based on your roof material.
Glass Cleaner
Streak-free finish for windows and mirrors.
$5–$10 per bottle
Opt for ammonia-free formulas.
Microfiber Towels
Drying and wiping without scratching surfaces.
$10–$25 per pack of 5-10
Ensure high-quality, lint-free towels.
Soft-Bristle Brush
Scrubbing without damaging paint or decals.
$10–$20
Get one with an extendable handle for reach.
Extendable Hose
Rinsing off dirt and soap efficiently.
$20–$50
Prefer hoses with adjustable nozzles.
Bucket (5 Gallons)
Mixing soap and water.
$5–$15
Choose durable, lightweight options.
Pressure Washer (Optional)
For efficient cleaning of tough grime.
$100–$300
Use models with adjustable pressure settings.
Chamois Cloth or Squeegee
Prevents water spots during drying.
$10–$20
Chamois is ideal for large, flat surfaces.
Bug and Tar Remover
Removes stubborn bug splatter and tar.
$10–$15 per bottle
Essential for front grilles and windshields.
Awning Cleaner
Cleans and protects awnings from mold/stains.
$15–$25 per bottle
Look for UV-protectant formulas.
Ladder (if needed)
Accessing the roof safely.
$50–$150
Choose a stable, foldable ladder.
How Often Should You Wash Your Motorhome?
The frequency of washing your motorhome depends on how often you use it, the environments you travel through, and how well you want to maintain its appearance and functionality.
General Rule of Thumb
Wash your motorhome every 4-6 weeks if it’s in regular use.
For occasional use or storage, clean it thoroughly before and after trips.
Task
Description
Estimated Time
Tools Needed
Inspect for Dirt
Check for bird droppings, bug splatter, or tree sap.
5 minutes
Visual inspection
Spot Clean Problem Areas
Wipe off stains or debris to prevent damage.
5-10 minutes
Microfiber cloth, mild cleaner
Clean Windows & Mirrors
Remove dust or streaks for clear visibility.
10 minutes
Glass cleaner, microfiber cloth
Rinse the Exterior
Use a hose to rinse off dust and light dirt.
10-15 minutes
Garden hose or spray nozzle
Check the Roof
Look for leaves, branches, or dirt accumulation.
5 minutes
Ladder (if needed), soft broom
Dry Key Areas
Dry mirrors, windows, and any rinsed areas.
5-10 minutes
Chamois cloth or microfiber towel
Inspect Seals & Decals
Ensure seals and decals are clean and intact.
5 minutes
Visual inspection
Factors Influencing Washing Frequency
1. Travel Conditions
Dusty or Muddy Roads: Wash after every trip to remove dirt and grime.
Coastal Areas: Salt buildup can cause corrosion; rinse and clean immediately after trips.
Tree Sap or Bird Droppings: Clean as soon as possible to avoid paint damage.
2. Weather Exposure
Rain and Snow: Wash after exposure to rain or snow to prevent watermarks and residue buildup.
Sunny Regions: Wash frequently to remove dirt that amplifies UV damage to paint and seals.
3. Seasonal Cleaning
Spring Cleaning: Remove winter dirt and prep for travel season.
Pre-Storage: Wash, wax, and inspect before long-term storage to prevent grime accumulation.
Signs It’s Time to Wash Your Motorhome
Visible Dirt or Grime: Mud, dust, or streaks on the exterior.
Faded Shine: Loss of gloss due to dirt and weathering.
Blocked Seams and Vents: Dirt clogging vents or seams.
Roof Stains: Accumulated leaves, mold, or bird droppings on the roof.
Methods to Wash Different Class Motorhomes
Washing a motorhome requires different approaches based on its class and structure. Here’s a tailored guide for washing Class A, Class B, and Class C motorhomes effectively and safely.
Class
Size Range
DIY Cost (Estimated)
Professional Service Cost (Estimated)
Details
Class A
30–45 feet (large size)
$25–$50 (cleaning supplies)
$150–$400
Higher cost due to size and luxury features.
Class B
18–24 feet (compact size)
$15–$30 (cleaning supplies)
$50–$150
Easier to clean, requiring fewer resources.
Class C
20–33 feet (mid-sized)
$20–$40 (cleaning supplies)
$100–$250
Moderate effort and materials required.
Class A Motorhomes: Luxury Cleaning for Big Rigs
Features: Large, bus-like motorhomes with expansive exteriors. Method:
Start with the Roof:
Use a ladder or walkable roof access.
Apply RV roof cleaner for rubber or fiberglass materials.
Rinse thoroughly to avoid streaking down the sides.
Use an Extendable Brush:
Reach high sides with a soft-bristle brush.
Clean in sections using motorhome-safe soap.
Polish and Protect:
After washing, apply wax or protective sealant to maintain the luxurious finish.
Pro Tip: Invest in a pressure washer with adjustable settings for effective dirt removal without damaging the paint.
Class B Motorhomes: Compact and Easy to Clean
Features: Van-style motorhomes, ideal for solo or couple travelers. Method:
Quick Rinse:
Use a standard garden hose or portable pressure washer.
Work from top to bottom for an even clean.
Hand Wash for Precision:
A sponge or microfiber cloth is ideal for the compact surface.
Pay special attention to crevices, door handles, and windows.
Dry Thoroughly:
A chamois cloth ensures no water spots.
Clean the mirrors and windshield with a glass cleaner for optimal visibility.
Pro Tip: Class B motorhomes are easier to clean but require frequent maintenance due to their smaller size and exposure.
Class C Motorhomes: Mid-Sized Cleaning Approach
Features: Over-cab sleeping areas and mid-sized body. Method:
Start with the Cab Area:
Clean windows, mirrors, and the front grille with a separate sponge.
Use bug remover to clear any road grime.
Focus on the Over-Cab Section:
Use an extendable brush to reach the overhang.
Gently scrub to avoid damaging decals or seams.
Wash and Rinse the Body:
Divide the body into sections for better control.
Use RV-safe soap to protect paint and seals.
Inspect and Detail:
Inspect for any mold or residue around windows and roof seams.
Apply a protective coating to reduce dirt buildup in the future.
Pro Tip: Use awning cleaner to maintain the cleanliness and functionality of the over-cab space.
General Tips for All Motorhome Classes
Wash in shaded areas to prevent soap drying too quickly.
Avoid high-pressure settings near seals and decals.
Regular cleaning prevents long-term stains and damage.
The Best Method to Wash Your Motorhome
Washing your motorhome the right way is essential to protect its exterior, maintain its value, and ensure it’s ready for your next adventure. Here’s the best method to wash your motorhome step by step for optimal results.
Step 1: Choose the Right Location
Pick a shaded area to prevent soap and water from drying too quickly, which can cause streaks.
Ensure water runoff complies with local environmental regulations.
Step 2: Gather the Best Tools
Extendable soft-bristle brush: Safely reaches high areas.
Motorhome-specific cleaner: Gentle yet effective on RV materials.
Garden hose with spray attachment or adjustable pressure washer: Avoids damage to seals and paint.
Microfiber cloths: For streak-free drying.
Bucket and sponge: Essential for detailed cleaning.
Step 3: Pre-Rinse the Entire Motorhome
Use a hose to rinse off dust, debris, and grime.
Work from top to bottom for the best results.
Avoid high pressure near seals, vents, and decals.
Step 4: Clean the Roof First
Apply a roof cleaner specific to your motorhome’s material (rubber, fiberglass, or aluminum).
Scrub gently with a soft brush, removing dirt, mold, or stains.
Rinse thoroughly to prevent dirt from running down the sides.
Step 5: Wash the Body in Sections
Mix the motorhome-safe cleaner with water in a bucket.
Use a soft sponge or brush to scrub each section, starting from the top.
Pay special attention to windows, seams, and decals to avoid dirt buildup.
Step 6: Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse off soap immediately after scrubbing each section.
Use a steady water flow to prevent streaks or residue.
Step 7: Dry for a Spotless Finish
Use a microfiber cloth or chamois to dry the motorhome.
Work in circular motions for a polished look.
Dry windows and mirrors with a glass cleaner to prevent streaks.
Step 8: Protect the Exterior
Apply a high-quality RV wax or protective sealant to the body and roof.
This shields against UV rays, dirt, and weather damage.
Common Mistakes When Washing a Motorhome and How to Fix Them
Washing a motorhome may seem straightforward, but mistakes can lead to damage or unsatisfactory results. Here are the most common problems and their solutions to help you avoid costly errors.
Mistake 1: Using High-Pressure Washers Incorrectly
Problem: Excessive pressure can damage paint, seals, and decals, causing leaks or peeling.
Solution:
Use a pressure washer with an adjustable setting.
Keep the pressure low (under 2,000 PSI) and maintain a safe distance (2-3 feet) from the surface.
Mistake 2: Using Harsh Cleaning Chemicals
Problem: Strong chemicals like bleach or degreasers can strip paint, damage seals, and cause discoloration.
Solution:
Always use motorhome-specific cleaners or mild soap.
Test any new product on a small, inconspicuous area first.
Mistake 3: Neglecting the Roof
Problem: Dirt, mold, and debris accumulate on the roof, leading to long-term damage or leaks.
Solution:
Clean the roof first to avoid dirty runoff staining the sides.
Use a roof cleaner suited to your motorhome’s material (rubber, fiberglass, etc.).
Mistake 4: Washing in Direct Sunlight
Problem: Water and soap dry too quickly, leaving streaks or spots.
Solution:
Wash your motorhome in a shaded area or during cooler parts of the day (morning or late afternoon).
Rinse frequently to prevent soap from drying on the surface.
Mistake 5: Skipping Pre-Rinsing
Problem: Washing directly over dry dirt or debris can scratch the paint.
Solution:
Pre-rinse your motorhome with a hose to remove loose dirt and grime before scrubbing.
Mistake 6: Ignoring Awning and Windows
Problem: Dirty awnings and streaky windows affect both aesthetics and functionality.
Solution:
Clean awnings with an awning-safe cleaner and scrub gently.
Use a streak-free glass cleaner and microfiber cloth for windows.
Mistake 7: Forgetting to Dry the Motorhome
Problem: Air drying leaves water spots and streaks, diminishing the shiny finish.
Solution:
Use a microfiber towel or chamois cloth to dry all surfaces immediately after rinsing.
Mistake 8: Not Inspecting After Washing
Problem: Small damages like cracks or peeling decals go unnoticed, leading to bigger issues later.
Solution:
After washing, inspect your motorhome for damage.
Address any issues, such as resealing seams or fixing peeling decals, immediately.
Should You Hire a Professional to Wash Your Motorhome?
Deciding whether to wash your motorhome yourself or hire a professional depends on factors like time, expertise, and convenience. Let’s weigh the pros and cons to help you decide.
Benefits of Hiring a Professional
1. Expertise and Equipment
Professionals use specialized tools, cleaners, and techniques to clean every part of your motorhome, including hard-to-reach areas.
They understand how to handle delicate materials like decals, seals, and rubber roofs.
2. Time-Saving Convenience
Washing a motorhome can take several hours. Hiring professionals lets you focus on other tasks while they handle the work.
3. Added Services
Many professionals offer additional services like waxing, polishing, and sealant application to protect your motorhome.
4. Preventing Damage
Skilled cleaners know how to avoid common mistakes, such as using too much pressure or harsh chemicals.
Drawbacks of Hiring a Professional
1. Cost
Professional motorhome cleaning can be expensive, ranging from $100 to $400 depending on size and services.
2. Limited Control
You may not always get the detailed cleaning you prefer.
It’s essential to research and choose a reputable service provider.
3. Accessibility
Professional services may not be available in all locations, especially in remote areas or during busy travel seasons.
When to Hire a Professional
Consider hiring a professional if:
Your motorhome requires deep cleaning after a long trip or extended storage.
You lack the tools, space, or time to clean it yourself.
You want to add protective coatings like wax or ceramic sealants.
You’re concerned about causing damage during DIY cleaning.
More details related to Motorhomes washing will be available on Flamingo Motorhomes
