When it comes time for an RV wash, there are 3 types of people. You either are obsessing over it, doing it because it hasn’t been done in awhile, or because your significant other is not making your life easy over it. Regardless of your situation, there are tools that just make washing an RV easier, faster, and more effective. After some careful polling of RV owners, message boards, and our own experiences, we compiled this list of handy items to save you time, money, and even give you a little enjoyment during your RV’s next wash.
This tool has been around for years, yet it still serves as one of the most useful RV washing tools available. If your RV or car needs to be free of scratches and you are trying to keep that wonderful shiny finish, then look no further. Simply slip this mitt on your hand and your arm turns into a delicate yet effective RV wash kit. These mitts easily lift dirt and do not leave lint behind. It is safe for use on any surface on your RV.
2. Flow-Thru Wash Brush with Extension Pole
If you have a larger RV, chances are you need a ladder to get up high and in those hard to reach areas. You may want to consider an RV wash brush with a flow through. Not only does it spread the soap but it also dispenses water from the brush after you connect the hose to the end. Carrand makes a quality version with a 10” brush and 68” extension pole. You can also consider a version with no flow-thru function with the option of a longer pole for extra tall RVs.
Nu Finish has been the #1 car polish for years. Every major auto magazine has confirmed that – plus, it has the same charming effect on RVs. It claims to protect, improve the shine, and give your vehicle added durability. If the reviews are any indication, it does that and more. It is relatively simple to use. Just apply with a damp cloth, let it dry, then wipe off. No buffing or heavy rubbing required.
4. Meguiar’s Gold Class Car Wash Shampoo & Conditioner
Meguiar’s Gold Class Car Wash Shampoo and Conditioner is by far the most highly regarded item on this list. It claims to effectively wash away all that dirt and grime without removing the wax you may have already applied. The reviews support this claim. It is very soft on paint and will help maintain the condition of your RV to look as good as new for years to come.
5. The Absorber Synthetic Drying Chamois
The Absorber is one of the leading drying tools available. It is not a towel nor made of leather. It is actually made of a high tech material called PVA (Poly Vinyl Alcohol). It is one of the most effective ways to dry your rig after a wash. The Absorber is 27″ x 17″ which should give you plenty of absorbing real estate.
Keeping a 5-gallon bucket around when you are on the road isn’t always easy. It can take up valuable space better used by other items. Camco’s rectangular collapsible wash bucket is a clever alternative to the traditional bucket. It is over 18″ wide for ease of use with large wash brushes. It collapses to only 2-3/4″ tall and comes with its own storage bag.
If you’ve ever dipped your brush in a bucket halfway through a wash only to notice that you’re just stirring up a slurry of dirt back onto the brush, then the Grit Guard is worth considering. This handy gadget goes inside a standard 5-gallon bucket and allows debris and heavy dirt to fall to the bottom without being stirred during brush dips. It also ensures you don’t apply something to the side of your RV that could gouge or scratch the finish.
8. Car Wash Foam Gun
One of the surprising tools being used more and more for an RV wash is the foam gun. This gun has a reservoir that you fill with auto shampoo. Then once the hose is plugged into the end, pressing the trigger perfectly mixes air, water, and soap into a thick foam that you can spray with precision. There are several options out there. The highest rated seem to be from Gilmour or MTM Hydro. Remember that these recommend the use of specialized soap in most cases, so don’t forget the special auto shampoo.