How to Clean and Protect RV Dashboards, Plastics, and Trim
Your RV dashboard and interior plastics take a beating — sunlight, heat, hand oils, and dust all work together to fade, dry, or crack these surfaces over time. But with the right products and process, you can restore that factory-fresh, matte finish without adding greasy shine or residue. This guide shows how to safely clean and protect every plastic and trim surface inside your RV like a pro.
Estimated Reading Time: ~12 minutes
Why Proper Dashboard and Trim Care Matters
RV dashboards are exposed to constant sunlight and heat, which can dry out and fade plastics quickly. Using the wrong products — especially silicone-based dressings — can make the surface shiny, greasy, and prone to attracting dust. Worse yet, they can create glare on the windshield that makes driving unsafe.
Instead, the goal is to clean safely and restore a **matte OEM look** — one that looks factory-new, not artificially glossy.
What You’ll Need
- → Complete Cabin Cleaner
- → All Dressed Up
- → All Blacked Out Applicators
- → Everyday Microfiber Towels
- → Soft interior brush (optional for vents and seams)
Step-by-Step: How to Clean and Protect RV Dashboards and Plastics
Step 1: Remove Dust and Debris
Start by dry dusting the entire dashboard and trim with a soft microfiber towel or brush. Pay special attention to vents, gauge clusters, and seams where dust collects. This prevents dirt from scratching surfaces during cleaning.
Step 2: Clean with Complete Cabin Cleaner
Spray Complete Cabin Cleaner directly onto a towel — not onto the surface — and wipe thoroughly. For textured areas, use a Scrub Buddy Pad or interior brush to loosen grime, then follow with a clean microfiber towel.
Safe All-Surface RV Cleaner
Complete Cabin Cleaner removes dust, fingerprints, and grime from dashboards and plastics without leaving shine or residue.
Shop Complete Cabin Cleaner Buy on AmazonStep 3: Protect with All Dressed Up
Once the surface is clean and dry, apply All Dressed Up using an All Blacked Out Applicator. Work the product evenly into the surface. Allow it to set for 1–2 minutes, then lightly buff with a clean microfiber towel to remove any excess.
The result is a dry-to-the-touch matte finish that looks natural — not greasy or slippery.
Matte Finish RV Interior Protectant
All Dressed Up provides UV protection and restores that OEM-style matte look without the greasy shine of traditional dressings.
Buy All Dressed Up Buy on AmazonStep 4: Detail Vents, Buttons, and Trim
Use a small detailing brush or microfiber stick to clean tight areas like air vents, control buttons, and seams. These collect grime easily and are often overlooked. Spray cleaner onto your towel first — never directly into electronics or switches.
Step 5: Final Wipe and Inspection
Once everything is cleaned and dressed, use a dry microfiber towel to gently buff the surfaces. This evens out the finish and removes any remaining product residue.
Dashboard Cleaner and Protectant Comparison
| Product | Finish Type | UV Protection | Residue-Free | RV Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Complete Cabin Cleaner | Matte | Moderate | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| All Dressed Up | OEM Matte | High | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Silicone-Based Dressing | Glossy / Wet | Low | ❌ No | ❌ No |
Pro Tips for Interior Trim Detailing
- → Never spray cleaner or dressing directly on the dash — always apply to the towel first.
- → Avoid shiny dressings on dashboards; they can reflect sunlight and cause glare.
- → Apply All Dressed Up monthly to maintain UV protection and appearance.
- → Keep microfiber towels dedicated for interior use only.
- → Store your protectants in a cool area inside your RV to prevent product degradation.
Related Reading
- Best RV Interior Cleaners for Vinyl, Leather, and Fabric
- How to Clean and Sanitize Your RV Interior After a Long Trip
- How to Remove Odors and Musty Smells from an RV Cabin
- How to Prevent Mold and Mildew in RV Interiors
- Safe Ways to Clean Electronics and Control Panels in an RV
FAQs
What’s the best way to clean RV dashboards without damaging them?
Use Complete Cabin Cleaner on a microfiber towel. It removes grime safely without adding gloss or residue.
How do I protect RV plastic from fading?
Apply All Dressed Up regularly for UV protection and a matte OEM-style finish that won’t attract dust.
Can I use household cleaners on RV dashboards?
No. Many contain alcohol or silicone that can discolor plastics and leave sticky residue. Stick to RV-safe products.
Does All Dressed Up make surfaces slippery?
No. It dries completely and leaves a natural matte finish that’s safe for dashboards and trim.
How often should I apply protectant to my RV interior?
Every 30–60 days for vehicles stored outdoors, or every 90 days for indoor-stored RVs.
