Prepping Your RV for Summer Travel: Full Cleaning Checklist
Before you hit the open road this summer, give your RV a deep clean and inspection to make sure it’s ready for the miles ahead. From washing the exterior to refreshing the cabin and checking key components, this step-by-step summer prep checklist ensures your rig looks great and performs even better — inside and out.
Estimated Reading Time: ~13 minutes
Why Summer Prep Matters
Summer is peak RV season — and also the time when heat, dust, and bugs are at their worst. A proper cleaning and protection routine not only makes your rig look great, but also prevents paint fading, water spots, and interior wear from sun exposure. Prepping before your first trip saves you from bigger headaches later in the season.
RV Summer Cleaning Checklist
Here’s your complete summer-ready RV detailing guide — broken into exterior and interior sections so you can tackle it all efficiently.
EXTERIOR RV CLEANING
1. Pre-Rinse and Foam
Rinse off dust and loose debris, then pre-soak your RV using The Super Soaper. Mix 4 ounces in a foam cannon and cover the entire exterior, letting it dwell for 2–3 minutes. This helps loosen grime before you even touch the surface.
2. Hand Wash with Microfiber Towels
Use a Orange Wash Microfiber Towel and more The Super Soaper to gently wash from top to bottom. Focus on roof panels, windows, and lower sections where road grime accumulates. Rinse thoroughly with low pressure.
The Easiest Way to Wash a Big RV
The Super Soaper delivers thick foam that breaks down grime without scrubbing — perfect for large RV surfaces.
Shop The Super Soaper Buy on Amazon3. Dry and Inspect
Use a Massive Drying Towel to remove water safely. Inspect paint and trim for oxidation, black streaks, or bug etching — all easier to correct now than mid-trip.
4. Polish or Protect the Exterior
If your paint looks dull or oxidized, revive it with Picture Perfect Polish. Once the surface is clean and smooth, seal it with Tough As Shell Ceramic Spray to lock in gloss and repel UV damage.
5. Clean Wheels and Tires
Spray Pure Magic Cleaner on wheels and tires to dissolve brake dust and grime. Agitate with a brush, rinse, and dress tires with All Dressed Up for a natural matte look.
INTERIOR RV CLEANING
1. Start with a Trash Sweep
Remove all trash, leftover food, and storage clutter. This step makes the rest of the cleaning process much easier and faster.
2. Vacuum Everything
Use a wet/dry vacuum to clean carpets, upholstery, and crevices. Move seats forward and backward to reach underneath. Don’t forget storage bays and under tables.
3. Clean and Sanitize Surfaces
Spray Complete Cabin Cleaner on all vinyl, plastic, leather, and fabric surfaces. Wipe using Scrub Buddy Pads for textured areas and microfiber towels for smooth panels. This cleaner removes grime, kills germs, and leaves a matte, OEM finish.
Interior Safe. Deep Cleaning Power.
Complete Cabin Cleaner safely cleans every RV interior surface — from dashboards to seats and walls — with a streak-free finish.
Shop Complete Cabin Cleaner Buy on Amazon4. Deodorize the Cabin
Finish with Jimbo’s Air Freshies to eliminate musty odors and leave your RV smelling clean for weeks. Citrus or Ocean Breeze scents are ideal for summer trips.
RV Summer Prep Comparison Chart
| Cleaning Task | Recommended Product | Frequency | Time Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exterior Wash | The Super Soaper | Before every trip | 30–45 min |
| Interior Cleaning | Complete Cabin Cleaner | Monthly or as needed | 20–30 min |
| Ceramic Protection | Tough As Shell | Every 3–6 months | 15 min |
Pro Tips for Summer-Ready RVs
- → Wash early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid water spots.
- → Clean your RV roof first — gravity pulls dirt down onto side panels.
- → Inspect seals and trim for cracks or gaps after every wash.
- → Always use microfiber towels to prevent marring glossy surfaces.
- → Reapply Tough As Shell Ceramic Spray mid-season for easy maintenance.
Related Reading
- How to Clean and Sanitize Your RV Interior After a Long Trip
- How to Clean Stainless Steel and Chrome on an RV Exterior
- Deep Cleaning RV Carpets and Upholstery: Pro Tips
- How to Prevent Mold and Mildew in RV Interiors
- How to Restore Faded RV Decals Without Peeling
FAQs
How often should I wash my RV during summer?
Wash your RV every 2–4 weeks during travel season, or immediately after long trips through dusty or bug-prone areas.
Do I need to wax or ceramic coat my RV?
Yes. Applying Tough As Shell or The Gloss Boss creates a UV-protective barrier that keeps paint glossy and easy to clean.
What’s the fastest way to clean an RV interior?
Use Complete Cabin Cleaner and microfiber towels. It’s safe on all surfaces and leaves a matte, non-greasy finish.
Can I use car wash soap on my RV?
Only if it’s safe for large painted surfaces. The Super Soaper is designed specifically for RVs, boats, and cars, making it ideal.
How do I prevent bugs from sticking during summer travel?
Keep a layer of ceramic spray protection on the front end — it makes bug removal fast and prevents etching.
