The Ultimate Guide to Cleaning Your Motorhome
Keep everything spick and span with our ultimate guide to cleaning your motorhome and how keeping on top of it can help reduce issues further down the line.
Keeping your motorhome clean is about more than appearance. Regular cleaning helps protect the paintwork, seals, windows, roof, interior surfaces and upholstery, while also making it easier to spot early signs of wear, leaks or damage before they become expensive problems.
In this guide, we explain how to clean a motorhome properly, inside and out, which products to use, what to avoid, and how to keep your vehicle in good condition throughout the year.
Quick answer: what is the best way to clean a motorhome?
The safest way to clean a motorhome is to rinse it first, wash it with a vehicle-safe cleaner using a soft brush or sponge, clean delicate areas such as acrylic windows and seals with the right products, then dry it thoroughly to prevent water marks and damp. Inside, focus on ventilation, mould prevention, and cleaning surfaces with non-abrasive products.
Why regular motorhome cleaning matters
A clean motorhome is easier to maintain and more enjoyable to use, but there are practical reasons to stay on top of it too:
- It helps protect paintwork and body panels from road grime, bird droppings and tree sap
- It reduces the build-up of black streaks, algae and other staining
- It helps preserve seals, roof joints and window surrounds
- It lowers the risk of damp, mould and unpleasant smells inside
- It gives you the chance to spot cracks, leaks, corrosion or accidental damage early
If your motorhome is stored for part of the year, cleaning it before and after storage is especially important.
How often should you clean a motorhome?
How often your motorhome needs cleaning depends on how often you use it and where it is stored.
As a general guide:
- Wash the exterior every few weeks during regular use
- Clean the interior after each trip
- Give it a deeper clean before long-term storage
- Check and clean the roof, seals and windows seasonally
- Remove bird droppings, sap or heavy dirt as soon as possible
If your motorhome is kept outside, you may need to clean it more often.
What you need to clean a motorhome
Before you start, gather the right equipment. Using the wrong products can damage the finish or scratch delicate surfaces.
Useful cleaning supplies
- Hose or buckets of clean water
- Vehicle shampoo or motorhome-safe cleaner
- Soft wash mitt or sponge
- Soft-bristled extendable brush
- Microfibre cloths
- Glass cleaner suitable for motorhome windows
- Interior cleaner for hard surfaces
- Vacuum cleaner or handheld vacuum
- Soft mop or cloth for floors
- Upholstery cleaner suitable for fabrics
- Ladder or safe access equipment for roof cleaning if needed
- Protective gloves
Products to avoid
Avoid using:
- Harsh household detergents
- Abrasive pads or stiff brushes
- Strong solvents
- Bleach on delicate surfaces
- Products not suitable for acrylic windows
- Pressure washers too close to seals, vents or joints
Motorhomes often have materials and fittings that need more care than a standard car or van.
Step 1: Start with the exterior
Always begin with the outside, as this is where the heaviest dirt usually builds up.
Rinse off loose dirt first
Use clean water to rinse away loose mud, dust and grit before touching the bodywork. This helps reduce the risk of scratching the surface while washing.
Pay particular attention to:
- Lower panels
- Wheel arches
- Front end
- Around the rear of the vehicle
- Roof edges
If dirt has been left to build up for a long time, allow the water and cleaner to soften it before wiping.
Wash from top to bottom
Use a motorhome-safe shampoo mixed according to the instructions. Work from the top down so dirt runs away from the cleaner areas.
Clean in sections:
- Roofline and upper panels
- Side walls
- Front and rear panels
- Lower bodywork
- Wheels and trims last
Use a soft brush or sponge and rinse regularly to avoid dragging grit across the surface.
Step 2: Clean the motorhome roof carefully
The roof is often overlooked, but it collects dirt, algae, leaves and debris that can stain the bodywork and block drainage areas.
When cleaning the roof:
- Only use safe, stable access
- Work slowly and avoid standing where the roof is not designed to take weight
- Use a soft brush and gentle cleaner
- Clear leaves and debris from around rooflights, vents and solar panels
- Check seals, joints and roof fittings while you clean
Cleaning the roof also gives you a good chance to look for cracked sealant, loose fittings or signs of water ingress.
Step 3: Remove black streaks and stubborn marks
Black streaks are common on motorhomes and usually appear when dirt and water run down from trims, seals and fittings.
To remove them:
- Use a cleaner designed for vehicle bodywork or black streak removal
- Apply it gently to the affected area
- Let it sit briefly if the instructions allow
- Wipe using a soft microfibre cloth
- Rinse thoroughly afterwards
Do not scrub too hard, especially on painted or coated panels.
Bird droppings, insect remains and tree sap should also be removed quickly, as they can damage the finish if left in place.
Step 4: Clean motorhome windows the right way
Many motorhomes have acrylic windows rather than standard glass, so extra care is needed.
For acrylic windows
- Rinse off dust first
- Use plenty of water
- Clean with a soft cloth only
- Use a cleaner that is suitable for acrylic or plastic windows
- Dry gently with a clean microfibre cloth
Avoid abrasive cloths, glass cleaners not designed for acrylic, or dry wiping, as these can scratch the surface.
For mirrors and glass areas
Use a non-smearing vehicle glass cleaner and a clean cloth. Avoid overspray onto surrounding trims if the product is not suitable for plastics.
Step 5: Clean wheels, tyres and lower panels
The lower parts of a motorhome often pick up the most road grime.
Clean these areas last to avoid spreading heavy dirt over cleaner panels.
Focus on:
- Wheels
- Tyres
- Wheel arches
- Side skirts
- Steps and entry points
Use a separate sponge or brush for these areas so brake dust and grit do not transfer to paintwork or windows.
Step 6: Dry the motorhome properly
Drying is just as important as washing.
Leaving water to dry naturally can cause water marks, especially on windows and darker surfaces. Moisture left around seals, trims and joints can also contribute to mould or mildew over time.
Use clean microfibre towels to dry:
- Body panels
- Windows
- Mirrors
- Door shuts
- Around lockers and seals
Make sure awnings, steps and storage compartments are dry before closing them.
Step 7: Clean the motorhome interior
Once the outside is finished, move inside.
A clean interior helps keep the motorhome comfortable and reduces the risk of damp, smells and mould.
Vacuum first
Start by vacuuming:
- Seats and upholstery
- Carpets and mats
- Under seating areas
- Corners and storage spaces
- Mattress surfaces if appropriate
This removes dust, crumbs and debris before you wipe surfaces.
Wipe hard surfaces
Use a gentle interior cleaner for:
- Tables
- Worktops
- Cupboards
- Shelving
- Dashboard areas
- Handles and switches
Avoid soaking wooden or laminated surfaces. Use a lightly damp cloth rather than excessive water.
Clean the kitchen area
Pay extra attention to food preparation areas and appliances.
Wipe down:
- Hob surrounds
- Sink
- Splashbacks
- Fridge seals
- Cupboard handles
Remove crumbs from storage areas and check for any signs of moisture or mildew.
Clean the washroom
Use suitable cleaners on the toilet, sink and shower area. Dry surfaces well afterwards to reduce the chance of mould build-up.
Check corners, seal lines and around vents for hidden moisture.
Step 8: Prevent damp and mould
One of the biggest problems in motorhomes is trapped moisture.
To help prevent damp and mould:
- Open doors and windows while cleaning if weather allows
- Dry wet surfaces thoroughly
- Empty bins and remove food
- Clean and dry the fridge before storage
- Check under cushions and mattresses
- Leave some ventilation if the motorhome will be unused for a while
If you notice musty smells, staining, or condensation, inspect the vehicle more closely for signs of damp.
Step 9: Check seals, joints and problem areas while cleaning
Cleaning is a good time to inspect the condition of the vehicle.
Look out for:
- Cracked sealant
- Loose trims
- Damaged rooflights
- Staining around joints
- Soft spots or water marks inside
- Chips, scrapes or dents on the bodywork
- Signs of leaks around windows or lockers
Spotting issues early can help you deal with them before they become more serious.
Step 10: Finish with protection if appropriate
After cleaning, some owners choose to apply protective products to help preserve the finish.
Depending on the surface and manufacturer guidance, this may include:
Always check that any product is suitable for your motorhome’s materials before use.
Common mistakes to avoid when cleaning a motorhome
Cleaning a motorhome is fairly straightforward, but a few mistakes can cause unnecessary damage.
Avoid:
- Washing without rinsing off grit first
- Using harsh household cleaners
- Scrubbing acrylic windows
- Ignoring the roof
- Letting water sit inside compartments or around seals
- Using one dirty sponge on every surface
- Putting the motorhome into storage while damp
- Using unsuitable products on trims or sealant
A careful, gentle approach is usually best.
Seasonal motorhome cleaning checklist
Before spring and summer trips
- Wash the exterior
- Check the roof and seals
- Clean windows thoroughly
- Vacuum and freshen the interior
- Inspect for damp after winter
Before winter storage
- Give the motorhome a full clean inside and out
- Dry everything thoroughly
- Empty and clean the fridge
- Remove food and rubbish
- Clean the washroom
- Check for leaks or damaged seals
- Ventilate appropriately before closing up
Does cleaning help protect your motorhome?
Regular cleaning can help you identify accidental damage, worn seals, leaks or deterioration earlier. Keeping your motorhome in good condition may also help preserve its value and reduce the chance of small issues becoming bigger repair jobs later on.
It is also worth making sure your motorhome insurance gives you suitable cover for damage, theft and other risks that can affect your vehicle whether it is on the road, on site or in storage.
Get a motorhome insurance quote
Frequently asked questions
What is the best thing to wash a motorhome with?
A motorhome should usually be washed with a vehicle-safe cleaner or dedicated motorhome shampoo, warm water, and a soft sponge or brush. Avoid harsh household cleaning products unless the manufacturer says they are suitable.
Can you use a pressure washer on a motorhome?
You can use a pressure washer with care, but avoid using it too close to seals, vents, trims, roof joints and windows. High pressure can force water into vulnerable areas or damage fittings.
How do you remove black streaks from a motorhome?
Black streaks can usually be removed with a suitable bodywork cleaner or black streak remover and a soft cloth. Do not use abrasive pads or harsh scrubbing.
Can you use glass cleaner on motorhome windows?
Not always. Many motorhome windows are acrylic rather than glass, so you should only use products that are suitable for acrylic or plastic windows to avoid scratching or clouding.
How often should you clean the inside of a motorhome?
The interior should be cleaned after each trip, with deeper cleaning carried out regularly and before long periods of storage.
Should you clean the roof of a motorhome?
Yes. The roof collects dirt, leaves and algae and should be checked and cleaned carefully as part of routine maintenance.
Final thoughts
Cleaning your motorhome regularly helps keep it looking good, protects key surfaces, and makes it easier to spot maintenance issues before they get worse. By using the right products and taking extra care with windows, seals and the roof, you can help keep your motorhome in great condition for longer.
If you are reviewing your motorhome maintenance routine, it may also be a good time to check that your insurance cover still meets your needs.
