RV Detailing Guide: Complete Interior and Exterior Care

RVs live hard lives. Road trips, campground dust, cooking odors, pet hair, and months of storage—your adventure vehicle accumulates wear and contamination that most cars never see. Without proper detailing, that $100,000+ investment becomes a neglected box on wheels.

At Blackout Window Tinting in Gilroy, we service RVs from weekend campers parked in San Jose driveways to luxury Class A motorhomes heading to Pebble Beach. After decades of RV detailing, we've developed comprehensive cleaning and protection protocols for every RV type and condition.

Here's the complete guide to keeping your RV pristine—inside and out.

Why RV Detailing Matters More Than Car Detailing

The Size and Complexity Factor

RVs present unique detailing challenges that cars don't:

The Financial Case for Detailing

Proper detailing protects your significant investment:

The Hidden Costs of Neglect

Deferred RV maintenance compounds quickly:

• Oxidation correction: $500-$2,000 (if caught early) to $5,000+ (full repaint)
• Mold remediation: $1,000-$5,000 depending on spread
• Upholstery replacement: $2,000-$8,000 for cushions and fabrics
• Seal failures leading to leaks: $5,000-$15,000 in structural water damage

Expert Insight: "We see RV owners spend $50,000-$200,000 on their rigs, then skip $500/year in maintenance detailing. Two years of neglect can create $10,000+ in repair costs. It's the most expensive penny-pinching in the automotive world." — Blackout Detailing Team

Complete Exterior Detailing Process

Step 1: Roof Inspection and Cleaning

Always start at the top—this is where most RV damage begins and where most owners never look.

For Rubber (EPDM/TPO) Roofs:

1. Sweep off all debris (leaves, twigs, dirt)
2. Rinse thoroughly with low-pressure water
3. Apply rubber roof cleaner (NOT petroleum-based products)
4. Scrub with soft brush in sections
5. Rinse completely—residue attracts more dirt
6. Apply rubber protectant (extends life by 30-50%)

For Fiberglass/Gel Coat Roofs:

1. Rinse all debris
2. Wash with pH-neutral RV wash
3. Address any oxidation with appropriate compound
4. Apply marine-grade wax or ceramic sealant

Critical Inspection While Up There:

• Sealant condition around AC units, vents, antennas
• Soft spots indicating water intrusion
• Debris in AC shroud restricting airflow
• Cracking or lifting around skylights
• Antenna bases and satellite mounting

Step 2: Wall and Body Wash

RV walls require gentle but thorough cleaning to avoid damaging graphics and clear coat.

Professional Process:

1. Rinse entire coach from top to bottom
2. Apply foam cannon pre-treatment (dwells and lifts contamination)
3. Two-bucket wash method, working top to bottom
4. Clean in manageable sections (3-4 ft wide) to prevent drying
5. Pay special attention to graphics edges and trim
6. Rinse thoroughly with low-pressure water
7. Dry with microfiber towels or leaf blower

Product Recommendations:

• pH-neutral RV wash (not dish soap or household cleaners)
• Soft wash mitt or boar's hair brush
• Extension poles rated for the reach needed
• Separate buckets and mitts for roof vs. walls

Step 3: Oxidation Treatment

Fiberglass and gel coat oxidize relentlessly—especially on RVs that live outdoors.

Recognizing Oxidation Levels:

• Light: Slightly dull appearance, water still beads weakly
• Moderate: Chalky residue transfers to hand, faded color obvious
• Heavy: Rough texture, significant color loss, graphics fading

Treatment by Severity:

Oxidation Prevention: After correction, apply high-quality wax, sealant, or ceramic coating. Unprotected fiberglass will re-oxidize within 6-12 months.

Step 4: Trim, Seal, and Component Care

These often-neglected areas make the difference between "clean" and "detailed."

Rubber Seals and Gaskets:

• Clean with mild soap (not petroleum products)
• Apply rubber conditioner (303 Aerospace or equivalent)
• Inspect for cracks, hardening, or separation
• Address gaps before they become leaks

Plastic and Vinyl Trim:

• Clean with trim-specific cleaner
• Restore faded trim with restoration product
• Apply UV protectant (critical for longevity)
• Replace brittle or cracked pieces

Metal Trim and Accessories:

• Polish aluminum and stainless with appropriate polish
• Apply metal sealant for long-term protection
• Address any corrosion before it spreads
• Clean and lubricate slideout rails

Step 5: Windows, Glass, and Lights

Visibility and safety depend on proper glass care.

Exterior Glass:

• Rinse debris before touching
• Use ammonia-free glass cleaner (ammonia damages tint and seals)
• Clean in shade or cool temperatures
• Dry with microfiber for streak-free finish

Don't Overlook:

• Mirror housings and glass
• All light lenses (polish if faded)
• Entry door windows (high-wear area)
• Camera lenses if equipped

Step 6: Wheels, Tires, and Undercarriage

Complete the exterior with rolling stock attention.

Wheels:

• Brake dust remover if applicable
• Dedicated wheel brush in all barrel crevices
• Dry thoroughly and apply wheel sealant

Tires:

• Tire cleaner to remove browning (from tire compounds)
• Apply UV-protectant tire dressing (essential for RV tires that sit)
• Inspect for cracking, checking, or sidewall damage
• Note: RV tires fail from age more often than wear

Complete Interior Detailing Process

Cab/Cockpit Area (Motorhomes)

Treat the driving area like a vehicle interior with extra attention to the larger surfaces.

Dashboard and Controls:

1. Vacuum all loose debris, including air vents
2. Detail brushes in every crevice and control gap
3. Wipe with interior cleaner (not household products)
4. Apply UV protectant (non-greasy formula critical for driver visibility)
5. Clean instrument cluster and GPS screens with appropriate cleaner

Floor and Carpeting:

1. Remove floor mats completely
2. Vacuum thoroughly including under seats and pedals
3. Spot treat any stains
4. Deep extract if needed for embedded contamination
5. Apply fabric protectant
6. Clean mats separately and reinstall

Driver/Passenger Seats: Match cleaning method to material:

• Cloth: Vacuum, extract if needed, protect
• Leather: Clean with leather cleaner, condition, protect
• Vinyl: Clean with vinyl cleaner, protect with marine-grade protectant

Living Area

This is the heart of your RV and requires the most attention.

Flooring by Type:

Upholstery and Cushions:

1. Remove cushions completely and take outside if possible
2. Vacuum all surfaces including crevices and under cushions
3. Remove covers if removable and wash separately
4. Spot treat any stains with appropriate solution
5. Deep clean with extraction for significant contamination
6. Apply fabric protector (extends cleaning intervals)
7. Deodorize underlying foam if needed
8. Check foam condition and replace if deteriorated

Cabinets, Walls, and Surfaces:

1. Empty cabinets completely
2. Wipe inside and check for moisture, mold, or pest evidence
3. Vacuum crumbs and debris from corners
4. Clean cabinet door exteriors
5. Wipe down all wall surfaces (often missed)
6. Clean light fixtures and ceiling vents
7. Organize before replacing items

Kitchen Area

High-use zone requiring thorough sanitization.

Countertops:

• Clean with appropriate surface cleaner for material
• Disinfect food preparation areas
• Apply sealant to porous surfaces (some solid surfaces, butcher block)

Appliances:

• Stove/cooktop: Degrease thoroughly, clean grates separately, check for carbon buildup
• Microwave: Interior wipe-down, clean door seal, check for grease splatter
• Refrigerator: Empty completely, clean interior, check door seals, vacuum condenser coils
• Sink: Descale faucet, disinfect basin, clean disposal if equipped

Storage and Cabinets:

• Clean all interior surfaces
• Check for expired food/products
• Organize with attention to weight distribution

Bathroom Area

Critical for hygiene and preventing mold/mildew in this high-moisture zone.

Toilet:

• Use RV-safe toilet cleaner (harsh chemicals damage seals)
• Clean thoroughly including base and behind
• Check and lubricate toilet seal if accessible
• Deodorize tank if needed

Shower/Tub:

• Treat any mold or mildew immediately
• Inspect all caulking and recaulk if needed
• Clean glass doors or curtain
• Check drain for hair and debris
• Clean showerhead (descale if needed)

Sink and Vanity:

• Standard bathroom cleaning
• Check under vanity for leaks or moisture
• Organize medicine cabinet and storage

Bedroom Area

Where you recharge needs special attention for a restful sleep.

Mattress Care:

1. Strip all bedding
2. Vacuum mattress surface including seams
3. Spot treat any stains
4. Deodorize with baking soda (let sit 1+ hour, then vacuum)
5. Flip or rotate if design allows
6. Check underneath for moisture (critical in RVs)
7. Consider mattress encasement for protection

Closets and Storage:

• Remove all contents
• Vacuum and wipe all surfaces
• Inspect for moisture or mold
• Consider moisture absorbers for storage
• Organize and replace items

RV Odor Elimination

RVs are notorious for trapping odors due to limited ventilation, small spaces, and holding tanks.

Common Odor Sources

• Holding tank gases (improper venting or dry P-traps)
• Cooking odors absorbed by fabrics
• Pet smells embedded in upholstery
• Mold and mildew from moisture intrusion
• Stale air from extended storage

Professional Odor Elimination Protocol

1. Identify the source — Fix the problem, don't mask it
2. Deep clean all surfaces, especially fabrics
3. Ozone treatment for persistent or mystery odors
4. Enzyme treatment for organic odors (pets, food, bodily fluids)
5. HVAC cleaning (often overlooked odor source)
6. Ventilate extensively with fresh air
7. Prevent recurrence with proper tank maintenance and ventilation

Seasonal RV Detailing Schedule

Spring (Pre-Season) — Full Detail Required

Prepare your RV for the camping season:

• Complete roof inspection and cleaning
• Full exterior wash, decontamination, and protection
• Complete interior deep clean including extraction
• Inspect and maintain all seals and caulking
• Systems check and test (run all appliances)
• Address any winter storage issues discovered
• Re-stock cleaning supplies for road use

Summer (Active Season) — Maintenance Focus

Keep up with use-related contamination:

• Exterior wash every 2 weeks or after each trip
• Interior quick clean weekly during use
• Bug removal within 24-48 hours of travel
• Check tire pressure and condition before each trip
• Empty and treat holding tanks as needed

Fall (End of Season) — Pre-Storage Critical

Prepare for months of dormancy:

• Full exterior wash including roof
• Complete interior deep clean
• Treat all leather, vinyl, and rubber
• Remove ALL food (including pantry items)
• Empty, flush, and treat holding tanks
• Leave cabinet doors and drawers open for air circulation
• Consider moisture absorbers throughout interior

Winter (Storage Period) — Check Regularly

Don't forget your stored RV:

• Monthly check for moisture/leaks/pest intrusion
• Run dehumidifier if indoor storage allows
• Check cover condition and tension if covered outdoors
• Keep batteries on maintenance charge

DIY vs. Professional RV Detailing

When DIY Makes Sense

Good for:

• Regular maintenance washes (every 2-4 weeks)
• Interior quick cleans between trips
• Basic exterior protection application
• Small RVs you can safely access

You'll Need:

• RV wash soap (not household products)
• Soft brush and extension pole (rated for your height)
• Safe ladder or scaffolding for roof access
• Interior cleaning supplies for each surface type
• UV protectants for rubber, plastic, and interior

When to Call Professionals

Best for:

• Oxidation correction (requires experience and equipment)
• Ceramic coating application (surface prep critical)
• Deep interior extraction (requires truck-mount or high-power extraction)
• Ozone odor treatment (specialized equipment)
• Annual comprehensive details
• Large motorhomes requiring lift access

Professional Advantages:

• Proper equipment (lifts, truck-mounts, commercial extractors)
• Professional-grade products not available to consumers
• Experience with RV-specific surfaces and challenges
• Time savings (professional detail vs. full weekend DIY)
• Insurance coverage if anything goes wrong

RV Detailing Price Guide

Professional RV Detailing Costs

Price Factors

• Size: Larger units = more time = higher cost
• Condition: Neglected RVs require more restoration work
• Location: On-site service typically costs more than shop
• Services: À la carte vs. package pricing
• Frequency: Regular customers often receive discounts

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I detail my RV?

For RVs in regular use, plan on a full detail at least twice yearly—a comprehensive pre-season detail in spring and a pre-storage detail in fall. During active use, maintenance washes every 2-4 weeks and interior quick cleans weekly keep the RV in good condition.

Can I use car washing products on my RV?

Some yes, some no. pH-neutral car wash soap is fine for fiberglass walls. However, avoid petroleum-based products on rubber roofs, and don't use household cleaners on interior surfaces. RV-specific products are formulated for the variety of materials in your coach.

How do I remove oxidation from my RV without damaging graphics?

Work carefully around graphics—they're often the most delicate element. Use a DA polisher on low speed with a finishing polish near graphics. Never apply heavy pressure or aggressive compounds near decals. Some owners tape around graphics, but this can sometimes lift edges. When in doubt, have a professional handle oxidation near graphics.

Is ceramic coating worth it for an RV?

Yes, especially for RVs stored outdoors or used frequently. The larger surface area that benefits from easier cleaning makes the ROI on ceramic coating even stronger than for cars. A properly applied ceramic coating can reduce washing time by 50% and provide 3-5 years of protection. The investment is significant ($2,500-$5,000 for a large Class A), but the labor savings and protection value are substantial.

What's the best way to eliminate RV holding tank odors?

Start with proper tank treatment—use quality holding tank chemicals and keep tanks properly hydrated. Dry tanks smell worse. Check P-traps under sinks (they dry out in storage). Ensure roof vents aren't blocked. For persistent odors, consider adding roof vent fans that pull air through and up. Professional ozone treatment can eliminate odors that have permeated into fabrics and surfaces.

Should I cover my RV during storage?

It depends on storage location. Indoor storage rarely needs covering. Outdoor storage in dusty or tree-heavy areas benefits from quality breathable covers. However, cheap tarps that trap moisture cause more damage than the elements they're blocking. If you cover, invest in a quality breathable cover designed for RVs.

How do I clean my RV roof safely?

Safety first—RV roofs are slippery and high. Use a proper ladder rated for your roof height, never walk on wet roof, wear soft-soled shoes, and have someone spot you. For rubber roofs, use only approved cleaners (not petroleum-based products). Consider hiring professionals with proper equipment for large motorhome roofs—a fall from 12+ feet is not worth the savings.

Can detailing prevent RV roof leaks?

Yes—regular roof inspection and maintenance during detailing catches seal failures before they become leaks. Roof detailing includes cleaning and conditioning seals, identifying cracks or separation in caulking, and noting any soft spots that indicate existing water intrusion. Prevention is dramatically cheaper than water damage repair.

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Ready to Detail Your RV?

Whether you need a pre-trip refresh or a comprehensive restoration after storage, professional detailing keeps your RV looking and feeling like the home-away-from-home it's meant to be.

📞 Call 408-848-8468 — Schedule RV detailing

📍 Get a quote — Describe your RV type, size, and condition

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Visit the Experts in Gilroy

Blackout Window Tinting is the Bay Area's premier choice for premium auto protection. Based in Gilroy at 610 Holloway Rd (behind Target), we've served the South County and Silicon Valley area for over three decades. Whether you're coming from Morgan Hill, Hollister, or anywhere else in the Bay Area, we're your trusted local source for professional window tint, PPF, and ceramic coating.

📞 Questions? Call us at 408-848-8468 or get a free quote online.