Common RV Cleaning Challenges
RV owners face unique cleaning challenges that differ from standard vehicle maintenance. Black streaks and road grime accumulate on the exterior due to tire spray and weather exposure, creating unsightly staining that damages curb appeal. Roof dirt and mildew growth develop from standing water and environmental debris, particularly problematic in areas with high humidity or seasonal weather changes.
Interior RV stains present another challenge—upholstery absorbs odors and collects moisture-related mold, while rubber roofs become brittle and discolored without proper cleaning and protection. Bug splatter and tar residue bond to windows and paint, requiring specialized removal techniques. Rust spots appear on aluminum exterior panels and metal fixtures when oxidation isn’t prevented. Most household cleaners are too harsh for RV-specific materials—fiberglass roofs, aluminum siding, and vinyl windows require gentler formulations.
Black Streaks on Siding
Black streaks develop from tire spray, road debris, and oxidation of RV exterior materials. These vertical streaks appear most prominently on the sides facing traffic and indicate accumulation of airborne contaminants and tire rubber particles. The streaking becomes more pronounced with age and requires specific chemical action to remove safely from delicate RV finishes.
Roof Dirt & Mildew
RV roofs are particularly vulnerable to mildew and algae growth due to their horizontal orientation and moisture-trapping characteristics. Standing water in roof valleys, around vents, and at seams creates perfect conditions for biological growth. Mildew doesn’t just look bad—it can penetrate protective roof coatings and cause lasting damage to roofing materials.
Bug Splatter & Road Grime
Insects splatter on the windshield, front cap, and front-facing surfaces while driving. Their acidic remains bond chemically to fiberglass and paint, becoming harder to remove the longer they remain. Road grime includes tar particles, brake dust, and asphalt residue that accumulate and require specialized chemistry to remove safely.
Interior Stains from Long Trips
Coffee spills, kitchen stains, and general wear from full-time living create challenges for RV upholstery and carpet. Mold can develop in upholstery and corners due to humidity and limited ventilation. These interior issues require safe, non-toxic cleaning solutions suitable for living spaces.
Black streaks develop from tire spray, road debris, and oxidation of RV exterior materials. These vertical streaks appear most prominently on the sides facing traffic and indicate accumulation of airborne contaminants and tire rubber particles. The streaking becomes more pronounced with age and requires specific chemical action to remove safely from delicate RV finishes.
RV roofs are particularly vulnerable to mildew and algae growth due to their horizontal orientation and moisture-trapping characteristics. Standing water in roof valleys, around vents, and at seams creates perfect conditions for biological growth. Mildew doesn’t just look bad—it can penetrate protective roof coatings and cause lasting damage to roofing materials.
Insects splatter on the windshield, front cap, and front-facing surfaces while driving. Their acidic remains bond chemically to fiberglass and paint, becoming harder to remove the longer they remain. Road grime includes tar particles, brake dust, and asphalt residue that accumulate and require specialized chemistry to remove safely.
Coffee spills, kitchen stains, and general wear from full-time living create challenges for RV upholstery and carpet. Mold can develop in upholstery and corners due to humidity and limited ventilation. These interior issues require safe, non-toxic cleaning solutions suitable for living spaces.
Recommended RV Cleaning Products
FAQs: RV Cleaning
Q: Can Machine Clean help chalkiness?
Q: Can Machine Clean help with Calcium marks?
Q: Will Machine Clean remove oxidation?
Q: Can I Use Machine Clean on Fiberglass?
Q: Are these cleaners safe for rubber RV roofs?
Yes. Our RV roof cleaner is specifically formulated for rubber membrane, asphalt, and other common RV roof materials. It removes mildew and algae safely without deteriorating the roof surface or affecting the seal integrity critical to preventing leaks and water damage.
Q: Do these products remove black streaks?
Absolutely. 13Supplies RV exterior cleaner is designed to eliminate black streaks caused by tire spray and oxidation. The formula breaks down stubborn residue without requiring excessive scrubbing, restoring your RV’s appearance quickly and effectively.
Q: Can I use these products inside my RV?
Yes. Our interior RV cleaners are safe for use inside vehicles, including upholstery and living spaces. They’re formulated to be non-toxic and low-fume, making them ideal for full-time RV residents where indoor air quality matters significantly.
Why 13Supplies RV Cleaners Work
13Supplies machine clean is perfect for RVs, our products are engineered for the specific demands of recreational vehicles, protecting valuable investments while delivering professional results. Our exterior RV cleaner safely removes black streaks, road grime, and oxidation from fiberglass, aluminum, and vinyl without harsh abrasives that can cause permanent damage.
Our roof cleaner tackles mildew, algae, and dirt buildup while being safe for rubber, asphalt, and membrane materials. The formula is designed to prevent future growth and extend roof life. For interiors, our safe RV upholstery and interior cleaners remove odors, mold, and stains without toxic fumes—critical for full-time RV living where ventilation is limited. What sets 13Supplies cleaner apart is our understanding of RV chemistry. We avoid products that degrade seals, weaken structural integrity, or leave residue that traps moisture.
Safe for Fiberglass, Vinyl & Rubber Roofs
Our formulations are specifically designed to clean the diverse materials found on RVs—fiberglass sidewalls, vinyl windows, rubber roofs, and metal trim—without chemical damage to any surface type. We understand how each material responds to different cleaning chemicals and formulate accordingly.
Removes Streaks & Stains
Our specialized stripper removes the black streaks caused by tire spray and oxidation from RV sidewalls. The chemistry targets the specific compounds that create these unsightly marks while protecting the underlying finish.
Works for Interior & Exterior
Whether you need exterior surface restoration or interior odor and mold removal, our complete product line addresses every RV cleaning need with specialized formulations appropriate for each application.
Ideal for Long-term Maintenance
Our formulations focus on protection and longevity. Rather than harsh one-time cleaning, our products establish protective barriers and prevent future buildup, reducing the frequency and intensity of future cleaning needs.
Step-by-Step Guide:

Prepare the RV by parking in shade or overcast conditions and gathering all necessary supplies and towels

Rinse the entire exterior with low-pressure water to remove loose debris and dust

Apply RV exterior cleaner starting at the top and working downward to prevent streaking

Scrub gently with a soft-bristle brush or microfiber cloth to lift buildup without scratching

Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove all cleaner residue

Clean windows and trim using appropriate glass and metal cleaners for streak-free results

Dry with microfiber cloths to prevent water spots

Apply protective products to roof and seals as recommended for long-term preservation
Prepare the RV by parking in shade or overcast conditions and gathering all necessary supplies and towels
Rinse the entire exterior with low-pressure water to remove loose debris and dust
Apply RV exterior cleaner starting at the top and working downward to prevent streaking
Scrub gently with a soft-bristle brush or microfiber cloth to lift buildup without scratching
Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove all cleaner residue
Clean windows and trim using appropriate glass and metal cleaners for streak-free results
Dry with microfiber cloths to prevent water spots
Apply protective products to roof and seals as recommended for long-term preservation























