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I’m going to share my favorite RV awning cleaners with some quick mini-reviews, and then dive into what you should consider when choosing the right one for your needs. I’d love to hear what your go-to cleaner is and why!
Top 3 RV Awning Cleaners
Camco Pro-Strength Awning Cleaner
When it comes to keeping my RV awning in top shape, I’ve found the Camco 41024 Pro-Strength Awning Cleaner to be a solid choice, albeit with some caveats. I’ve used this cleaner on my vinyl awning after it sat neglected for months, collecting all sorts of grime, mold, and tree sap. This cleaner made a noticeable difference—it cut through most of the gunk with relative ease. I used a soft brush and a bucket of water to help the process along, and it left the awning looking refreshed and much cleaner than before.
However, it wasn’t a miracle worker. Some tough spots, like stubborn black streaks, required a couple of rounds of scrubbing, and even then, it didn’t completely restore those areas to their original state. It was definitely better than standard dish soap, but not quite as effective as I had hoped for those really ingrained stains.
One thing I appreciated was that it’s safe for all awning fabrics, including vinyl, nylon, and acrylic, which means I didn’t have to worry about damaging the material during the cleaning process. It’s also nice to know it’s effective on tents and pop-up campers too, making it a versatile cleaner for outdoor gear.
That being said, a few user reviews mentioned mixed results. Some found it a bit pricey for what it delivered, with claims that a standard outdoor cleaner worked just as well, if not better, for less money. But overall, I’d still recommend it as a good, all-around option for regular awning maintenance, especially if you’re dealing with general dirt, mildew, and road grime. If you have really stubborn stains, though, you might need to consider a specialized product or be prepared for some elbow grease.
In summary, the Camco Pro-Strength Awning Cleaner is a reliable tool in the RV cleaning arsenal, but it might not be the ultimate solution for the toughest stains. Still, for regular upkeep, it’s a handy product to have on hand. If you’ve had different experiences with it, I’d love to hear your thoughts and what worked (or didn’t) for you!
Star Brite Liquid Mold & Mildew Stain Remover
I recently tried out the Star Brite Liquid Mold & Mildew Stain Remover on my RV’s awning, and I have to say, it exceeded my expectations. If you’ve ever battled those stubborn mildew stains on your RV, you know how frustrating it can be to get rid of them. I was pleasantly surprised at how quickly and effectively this product worked.
I started by spraying the stain remover directly onto the affected area and let it sit for a few minutes, as recommended. It’s formulated to tackle tough mildew stains on contact, and I could actually see the stains starting to disappear before my eyes. I did a quick light scrub with a soft brush and rinsed it off thoroughly. The awning looked almost brand new afterward—no more unsightly black spots ruining the view!
One of the things I appreciated about Star Brite’s formula is that it’s designed to be safe on a variety of surfaces like vinyl, fiberglass, and even plastic, which makes it perfect for RV awnings, boat seats, and outdoor furniture. However, be cautious if you’re planning to use it on wood or painted surfaces unless you’re okay with refinishing them afterward, as the strong formula can be a bit harsh on those materials.
What sets this product apart is how easy it is to use and how little effort it requires. I’ve used other cleaners before that made me scrub endlessly, but this one did most of the heavy lifting. Plus, it left a fresh, clean scent, which is a nice bonus.
If you’re looking for an effective solution to keep your RV awning mildew-free, I’d highly recommend giving Star Brite a try. It’s become a go-to cleaner for me, not just for the RV but also for patio furniture and even the occasional grout cleaning in the bathroom.
Have you tried Star Brite or another mildew remover for your RV awning? I’d love to hear your experiences and any tips you might have!
Thetford Premium RV Awning Cleaner for RV
I recently had the chance to try out the Thetford 96017 Premium RV Awning Cleaner, and I have to say, I’m genuinely impressed! This cleaner quickly became a go-to for maintaining my RV awning, which, let’s be honest, often takes a beating from the elements.
First off, I loved how easy it was to use. I just sprayed it on the stained areas of my vinyl awning, let it sit for a few minutes, and then gave it a good scrub. The result? It wiped away stubborn leaf stains, bird droppings, and even those pesky bug splatters with minimal effort. What really sold me on this product was how it didn’t just remove the surface grime but actually brought back some of the original color and vibrancy of the awning.
Another huge plus is that this cleaner is non-toxic, non-flammable, and 100% biodegradable, which is a big deal for me as I try to use environmentally friendly products whenever possible. It also has a UV blocker that helps protect the awning from sun damage, a feature that many other products overlook.
What’s even better is that it’s safe for both fabric and vinyl awnings, so I didn’t have to worry about it damaging the material or leaving any weird discoloration. That non-bleaching formula really gives peace of mind.
Overall, I found the Thetford Premium RV Awning Cleaner to be an effective, safe, and reliable solution for keeping my RV looking its best. If you’re like me and enjoy having a clean and well-maintained awning but hate the hassle of scrubbing and worrying about potential damage, I’d definitely recommend giving this a try. It’s a solid investment for any RV enthusiast who wants to keep their rig looking sharp.
Best RV Awning Cleaner Buyer’s Guide
Keeping your RV awning clean is a bit like maintaining a good relationship—it requires regular attention, the right approach, and a little bit of elbow grease. Over time, dirt, mold, and mildew can make even the toughest awning look weathered and worn. But fear not! With the right cleaner, you can restore your awning to its former glory. So, let’s dive into what makes a great RV awning cleaner and how to choose the best one for your rig.
Price
Let’s start with the most straightforward factor: price. Awning cleaners come in a range of prices, from budget-friendly options under $10 to premium formulas that can reach upwards of $30 or more. While it might be tempting to grab the cheapest bottle off the shelf, remember that you often get what you pay for. Cheaper cleaners may be less effective or require more product per use, meaning you could end up spending more in the long run. Personally, I like to look for something in the mid-range—around $15 to $20—where you typically get good quality and value for money.Type of Awning Cleaner
There are generally two types of awning cleaners: spray-on and concentrate. Spray-on cleaners are super convenient; you just spray, scrub, and rinse. Concentrates, on the other hand, need to be diluted with water but often offer more bang for your buck because you get multiple uses out of one bottle. I’m a big fan of concentrates because I like having control over the strength of the solution. But if convenience is key for you, a good spray-on might be the way to go.Versatility
One thing I always look for in a cleaner is versatility. Can it be used on multiple surfaces besides your awning, like your RV roof or exterior walls? A versatile cleaner can save you time and money, and it means fewer bottles cluttering up your storage space. I’ve found that some of the best RV awning cleaners can handle dirt, bird droppings, mold, and mildew on various surfaces, making them a great all-in-one solution for a quick cleanup.Biodegradable & No Harsh Chemicals
When you’re out enjoying the great outdoors, the last thing you want to do is harm it. That’s why I always go for cleaners that are biodegradable and free of harsh chemicals. This ensures that the runoff from cleaning your awning won’t damage the environment or your lawn at the campsite. Plus, using a product without harsh chemicals is better for your health and your RV’s longevity. Look for phrases like “biodegradable formula” or “eco-friendly” on the label.No Chlorine
Chlorine can be a sneaky little culprit. It’s great for killing germs in your pool, but it’s a no-go for your awning. Chlorine can weaken fabrics, cause discoloration, and even degrade the stitching over time. I’ve seen awnings that looked more like Swiss cheese after using cleaners with chlorine. It’s a big no-no for any fabric surface, so make sure your cleaner is chlorine-free to keep your awning looking its best.Your Awning’s Fabric
This one’s crucial: know your awning’s fabric. Most RV awnings are made from either vinyl or acrylic, and each has its own needs. Vinyl awnings are more robust but can attract mold and mildew. Acrylic awnings are more breathable but need a gentle cleaner to avoid damaging the fibers. I always check the label to make sure the cleaner is compatible with my awning’s material. Using the wrong cleaner can lead to discoloration or even permanent damage.Effectiveness
Effectiveness is the real test of any awning cleaner. Will it actually remove those stubborn stains, mildew, and dirt without too much scrubbing? I like to look for cleaners with reviews mentioning their ability to tackle tough grime with minimal effort. For me, a good awning cleaner needs to work well without a lot of fuss—after all, we’re RVing to relax, not to spend hours scrubbing away at a stubborn stain!Safety – Non-toxic
Safety should always be a top priority, especially if you’ve got kids or pets around. I look for non-toxic cleaners that won’t pose a hazard to anyone or anything around. A non-toxic label means it’s safe for your skin and lungs, as well as for any curious critters who might come sniffing around your freshly cleaned awning. It’s just one less thing to worry about while you’re out enjoying your time in nature.Protective Features
Finally, consider any protective features the cleaner might offer. Some cleaners come with UV protection to help prevent fading from the sun, while others have mold and mildew inhibitors to keep your awning cleaner for longer. These extra features can be a real bonus and save you time between cleanings. I’ve used a cleaner with added UV protection before, and it really did seem to keep the awning looking fresher for longer.Hey everyone! I’ve been RVing for a while now, and keeping the awning clean has always been a priority. My current favorite cleaner is the B.E.S.T. Awning Cleaner. It tackles dirt, tree sap, and mildew effortlessly without damaging the fabric. I also like to use a soft brush attachment to gently scrub away tougher spots. For extra protection, I apply 303 Aerospace Protectant afterward to keep the material looking new and shielded from UV damage.
RV awnings are like the sunshades of the RV world—perfect for keeping you cool and comfy, but boy, do they love collecting dirt, mildew, and the occasional bird gift. If you’re looking for the best way to keep your awning looking sharp, here are the top three questions I hear about RV awning cleaners, along with my answers to make cleaning a breeze (well, almost).
1. Do I really need a special cleaner for my RV awning?
Yes, and your awning will thank you for it. Regular household cleaners can be too harsh and might damage the fabric or vinyl coating on your awning. RV awning cleaners are specifically designed to tackle dirt, mildew, and grime without wrecking the material. Plus, they’re usually biodegradable, so you can clean without feeling guilty about dripping chemicals into your campsite. It’s like giving your awning a spa day—because, let’s face it, it deserves it.2. How often should I clean my RV awning?
If you’re like me, the answer is probably more often than you do now. Ideally, give it a good scrub at least twice a year—once before your first trip of the season and again before putting your RV into hibernation. That said, if you notice it looking grungy or spot mildew, don’t wait! A little regular maintenance goes a long way in keeping your awning from turning into a science experiment.3. Can I clean my RV awning while it’s still attached?
Absolutely! In fact, it’s easier to clean your awning while it’s rolled out and still attached to your RV. Spray your cleaner on both sides, let it sit for a few minutes (follow the label instructions), then scrub with a soft brush or sponge. Rinse thoroughly and let it dry completely before rolling it back up. Pro tip: Don’t forget to protect the area around your RV with tarps or towels—nobody wants awning grime dripping onto their favorite lawn chair.My Lazy But Effective RV Awning Cleaning Hack
I’ll be honest—cleaning my RV awning isn’t exactly my idea of a good time. If there’s a way to make it easier, I’m all in. So, after years of trial and error (and some questionable experiments), I’ve landed on a lazy but effective awning-cleaning method.
I mix up a batch of awning cleaner (I’ve had great luck with Thetford and Star Brite), pour it into a pump sprayer, and give the whole thing a good soak—top and bottom. Then, instead of scrubbing like I’m training for an arm-wrestling competition, I let the cleaner do its thing for about 10-15 minutes while I sip a coffee. After that, I use a soft brush on a long pole to scrub the worst spots, then blast it all off with my garden hose or pressure washer (on a low setting).
The result? A clean awning with minimal effort. I’ve even had other RVers walk by and ask what my secret is. The secret is: I’m too lazy to scrub, so I let the cleaner do the hard work for me. If you’ve got a lazy cleaning hack, I’d love to hear it!
That Time I Learned The Hard Way About Mold & Mildew
Picture this: I roll out my RV awning after a long winter, expecting to be greeted by the usual dust and maybe some leaf debris. Instead, it looked like a science experiment gone wrong—mold, mildew, and something that I swear winked at me from the corner.
I panicked and grabbed the first cleaner I had on hand. Big mistake. Turns out, not all cleaners are awning-safe, and I ended up with weird streaks and faded patches. That’s when I learned my lesson: always use the right cleaner. Star Brite’s mold and mildew remover saved my awning from total disgrace, but I still had to deal with some light scrubbing.
Moral of the story? If your awning is looking rough, don’t just grab the nearest bottle of whatever. Check that it’s safe for vinyl or fabric, and don’t let mildew sit too long unless you want to battle an entire ecosystem. Anyone else had a similar oops moment with their RV awning?
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