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The Best RV Roof Cleaners (Fiberglass & Rubber Treatments)

Writen by Tom Hank

Fact checked by Joseph Varney

It is necessary to clean the RV roof and do it the right way using the best RV roof cleaner and protectant. RVs usually have rubber roofs as they are much easier to maintain. This material is also less slippery and provides ample insulation against the heat of the sun. Hence, you need to get one that can clean and protect a rubber roof on RV.

best rv roof cleaner

However, not all RVs have rubber roofs, also known as EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer). Some have fiberglass as it is one of the most popular materials for RV roofs back then. With that in mind, you have to consider getting the best product to use to clean an RV rubber roof.

The best choice is that which can work properly regardless of the kind of roof your RV is rocking. This article will show you how to track down and buy the best RV rubber roof cleaner to avoid wasting your money and possibly causing significant damage to your vehicle.

Table of Contents

Best RV Roof Cleaner Reviews

1. B.E.S.T. 55048 Rubber Roof Cleaner

The thing that I like the most about the BEST rubber roof cleaning product is that it is essentially a two-in-one product. By buying this one, you will be getting an RV rubber roof cleaner and conditioner in one.

It is a must-have, especially if you live in a place where the heat of the sun can be too unbearable most of the time.

If you are a new RV owner, you need to avoid petroleum-containing cleaning products, especially for an RV’s roof. It is because such cleaners can cause a significant amount of damage. This BEST rubber roof cleaner has a zero caustic chemical formula, but can still clean thoroughly. Other cheaper brands would usually cause the rubber to dry up and crack, leading to more expensive damage.

This product is professional-grade, which means it can do short work on even the toughest of oxidation stains, road film, bird droppings, and many more types of dirt and grime.

I am also glad that this product leaves a protective layer, which does not only help in making the surface look shiny and many years newer, but also protects it against mold and mildew growth. Aside from that, this cleaner works in getting rid of all the unsightly dirt on your roof while also extending its service lifespan.

However, you need to rinse your RV thoroughly after using this B.E.S.T. rubber roof cleaner. If not, it can leave some residue on the sides of your vehicle.
What We Like
  • Cleans and protects your RV’s rubber roof in just one step
  • Does not contain any chlorine or petroleum-based additives
  • Can get rid of tough dirt and stains in one wash
  • Leaves a protective layer that prevents further stains
  • Can also protect against the growth of mold and mildew
What We Don’t Like
  • Leaves white residues if you let it dry without thorough rinsing
I am lucky to discover that the residue does not stain and needs to be scrubbed off. Regardless of the minor issue, this professional-grade rubber camper roof cleaner is one of the best products that money can buy right now.

2. Camco Pro-Tec RV Rubber Roof Care System

This Camco RV roof cleaner is a two-part rubber roof care system – the first is a professional-grade rubber roof cleaning product and the second is an RV rubber roof protectant that seals the surface and prevents further dirt and damage from occurring.

I am truly delighted that this product is specifically formulated for rubber roofs. Furthermore, it works in protecting and revitalizing the RV roofs, too.

You can use this rubber roof care cleaner to remove tough dirt and stains, like baked-on tree sap, rotten leaves stains, black streaks, and many others. It can loosen and lift the dirt with relative ease, making it easier to wash away. This product also does such easy and smooth cleaning without the use of chlorine and other caustic cleaning substances.

After cleaning the EPDM rubber roof, you can proceed to the second step, which is the application of the protectant. This product is quite easy to apply, especially if you have a long-handled sponge mop. With such mop around, you have an assurance that the application of the protectant/polish for your roof will turn out to be even.

I also appreciate that both products in this two-step product kit are biodegradable. I enjoy spending time with my family in the great outdoors, which is the reason why I got my RV. It is also the reason why I do my best to get cleaning products that are both biodegradable and non-toxic. With that, I can do my small part in protecting the environment.

This cleaning product kit would have scored much higher than what it did now if not for the reason that the protectant takes a while to dry.

I also noticed that it makes the roof somewhat more slippery. I have had a couple of close shaves myself, and I highly suggest that you use very grippy shoes when using this kit on your RV.

What We Like
  • Comes in the form of a complete kit containing a heavy-duty cleaner and protectant
  • Multi-purpose and functional product in different applications
  • No harmful chlorine bleach or petroleum-based products
  • Prevents future stains
  • Ensures that mold and mildew do not grow
  • Easy to use – Need a mop brush to use both products.
What We Don’t Like
  • The protectant is somewhat slippery while it is still wet.
It would help if you took the necessary precautions when cleaning the roof of your RV. With that said, you should still consider getting the Camco Pro-Tec roof cleaning system.

3. Thetford RV Rubber Roof Cleaner

What I find so impressive about this Thetford rubber roof cleaner is how it is specifically made for rubber RV roofs for breezy and effective cleaning.

The solution does not contain any harsh chemicals that will dry and crack the rubber matting on your roof. It can clean the surface thoroughly and deeply without worrying about any damage whatsoever.

This cleaning product can tackle all sorts of difficult stains and dirt. For instance, if you are at your wits’ end on how you can get rid of the oxidation marks, like roof chalk, without damaging the surface of the roof, then this cleaning product is just what you need. It can even get rid of the chalk-like substance that you usually see on heavily oxidized surfaces.

I also like how easy-to-use this product is. You just need to sweep away and hose off most of the dirt and dust that you can from the roof. After that, spray on this substance and use a mop to spread it all over the roof.

You do not even need to rinse off the product. You can just let it air dry and wait for it to perform its function. It is one of the easiest to use roof cleaners that you can find.

I also much appreciate just how safe and eco-friendly this product is. I found out that it is completely biodegradable. With that said, you do not have to worry if you spill some of it on the ground. It is because it is also non-toxic to plants and animals.

The only complaint that I have regarding this product is that it requires you to scrub it in to get the deep-seated dirt out. It means you will need to put in a bit more effort to get certain kinds of stains out.
What We Like
  • Can deeply clean without damaging the surface of the RV roof
  • Can tackle particularly stubborn dirt and stains, even oxidation stains.
  • Easy to use – Spray on the surface, spread it out, and wait for it to dry
  • Pet and plant-safe with non-toxic and biodegradable ingredients
  • Protects the surface of the roof from getting too dirty
What We Don’t Like
  • Needs a bit of elbow grease to work the cleaner into the stain
Although this cleaning product needs a bit of elbow grease to take out the tough stains, the fact that it can do it should be reason enough to give it a try.

4. Thetford RB Rubber Roof Treatment

The RB Rubber Roof Treatment from Thetford is part of the brand’s roof cleaning system. The first one is used for thoroughly cleaning the surface of the roof and getting rid of stains. This one will then provide a layer of protection against dirt from sticking onto the roof. It means that cleaning the roof later will be much more comfortable with the aid of this product.

This RV rubber roof treatment does not only prevent dirt and grime from attaching themselves onto the surface of the roof but also serve as UV protection. Note that the UV rays do not only cause discolouration on the roof surface but also dry up the rubber, causing it to develop cracks and leaks.

Another great feature of this product is that it can revitalize the rubber roof. It also moisturizes it to return it to almost like-new condition. It means that applying this product will be able to lengthen the service lifespan of your RV roof for an almost indefinite amount of time, but with regular use, of course.

The best thing about using this product is that it significantly decreases maintenance costs by up to 75%. It is mainly because the protective layer prevents dirt and grime from sticking onto the surface of the roof.

It also means you do not need to wash the roof of your RV quite as often as before. Instead of cleaning it at least four times a year, you can now decrease the number into just once a year.

I can’t think of any major issue to complain about with this RV rubber roof maintenance product. However, if I truly have to point out something, then it is that you can’t tell right away if the protective layer does its job. Only time will tell how effective this product is in that area.
What We Like
  • Breezy application – Spray on the surface, use a mop brush to spread it out.
  • Prevents dirt and grime from sticking onto the roof
  • Provides a protective layer for less minimum washing time a year
  • Protects against the harmful UV rays of the sun
  • Reconditions and revitalizes the RV’s rubber roof
What We Don’t Like
  • The effects of the protectant are not immediately visible.
Although you will not immediately notice the effects of this product, the many positive reviews will tell you that it indeed does its job.

5. Dicor Corporation RP-RC-1GL Rubber Roof Cleaner

What I like the most about this Dicor RV roof cleaner is that you can use it on all kinds of RV roofing materials while also being specifically formulated for use on rubber roofing.

As a multi-purpose product, the solution works wonders on other rubber and plastic components of the RV. I have used this cleaner on the fiberglass panels, and the result is incredible.

Furthermore, the Dicor rubber roof cleaner is not just made for RV rubber roofs. You can use the cleaner on your car’s exterior. Surprisingly, the cleaner does not damage the clear coating, nor did it cause any discolouration.

The packaging of this cleaning product also mentions that it is also useful for boats and other watercraft, which I do not doubt.

I am also glad that this product also contained water softeners so that there is no further risk of watermarks and other forms of oxidation. It is a significant advantage for me because the water coming out of our faucets is a bit hard so I had to install a water softener for the inside of the house. With that said, the outdoor faucets pour out hard water.

Every RV owner will appreciate that this product is ready to use and comes in a professional-strength formulation. I used it on an RV roof that has been left to its own devices for almost a year. Although it is impossible to make the roof look like new, it did make the once dirty roof somewhat a couple of years younger looking.

The only problem that I have about this product is that it might leave a whitish residue if I do not rinse it thoroughly. Sometimes, I had to scrub the sides of the RV quite a bit to get rid of the white stains left behind.
What We Like
  • Completely safe to use on plastic and rubber materials
  • Contains water-softening additives to prevent watermarks from appearing
  • Comes as a professional-strength formulation
  • Ideal for use on other vehicles, like cars and boats
  • Can recondition and moisturize the rubber roof of your RV
What We Don’t Like
  • If not rinsed thoroughly, it can leave a white residue
Even though you need to be very thorough when rinsing this cleaning product, there is no doubt how effective it is at cleaning your RV’s rubber roof.

6. Dicor Corporation RP-RG-1GL Rubber Roof Protectant

As you can probably tell, this product is the protectant part of the Dicor rubber roof cleaning system. Once the roof is sufficiently cleaned and cleared of dirt and stains completely, it will add a layer of protection that will prevent further dirt and stains from latching onto the surface of the roof.

Aside from repelling dirt and grime away from the surface of the roof, it also conditions and moisturizes the rubber sheet covering. The product also prevents the rubber from drying up and cracking. That means the roof can last longer than when it is just left to its own devices.

Additionally, the protective layer left behind by this product also protects the surface against the harmful UV rays of the sun. By applying this protectant right after cleaning the roof with the Dicor rubber roof cleaner, you will be preventing your RV roof from losing its original colour. In other words, this cleaner is also a high-SPF sunblock for your RV.

This product is also versatile, which most of us will truly appreciate. By that, it is meant to work perfectly on any surfaces that need protection against the elements. On my part, this product did a fantastic job on my plastic patio furniture.

I can’t find any significant fault and downside regarding this product. However, there is no shiny layer left behind, and it does not feel even slick as other products.
What We Like
  • Leaves a protective layer that repels dirt and stains
  • Reconditions and revitalizes the rubber roof
  • Protects the surface against the damaging effects of the sun’s UV rays
  • Useful in protecting versatile surfaces from the elements
  • Hassle-free and convenient as washing once a year is enough
What We Don’t Like
  • Does not leave a slick and shiny layer, making it quite hard to believe at first that it is indeed doing its job
All in all, it is almost a guarantee that this product does deliver on all its promises just by basing on the many positive customer reviews it earns.

7. Thetford Premium RV Rubber Roof Cleaner

This product by Thetford is not just a rubber roof cleaner but also a conditioner rolled into one.

When using this solution, after rinsing the roof thoroughly, there will still be a thin film of protectant left on the surface. I like it because it essentially cuts the amount of time I need to spend on top of my RV by half.

More importantly, you can rest assured that this product is specifically formulated for use on rubber roofs. It means it does not contain any ingredients that can damage the surface, like petroleum-based ingredients or any bleach.

In truth, it contains gentle surfactants that work overtime to lift the dirt and grime on the surface. To my surprise, it works even better than cleaning the RV roof with bleach.

Moreover, such a professional-grade cleaner like this one can amaze you by how efficiently it can rid of different kinds of dirt and stains. In my case, I used to scrub extremely hard to get rid of the disgusting bird droppings that have been baked onto the roof. But with this product, the cleaning process is more straightforward and less time-consuming.

With the view to protecting our environment and customers’ health, the brand decides to release this eco-friendly product. In fact, not only is this product completely and readily biodegradable, but it is also non-toxic and will not cause any harm to plants and animals.

The only problem that I have is that there does not seem to be any visible indication that the product indeed left a protective coating after washing. I can only tell if there is a protective coating by waiting a couple of weeks and checking the roof for any damage.
What We Like
  • Multipurpose as it is cleaner and protectant in one product
  • Cleans thoroughly without the help of caustic chemicals like bleach
  • Leaves a thin layer of protectant right after rinsing the cleaning product
  • Can clean even the toughest of dirt and stains
  • Does not contain any chlorine bleach or any petroleum-based ingredients
What We Don’t Like
  • Has little to no indication that there is a protective layer left after washing
Time will tell if this product indeed left a protectant layer, and if it is truly effective, but as far as cleaning goes, its effectiveness is unquestionable.

8. Dometic D1202001 D Line Roof Cleaner

Not just useful on rubber roofs, the D line cleaner from Domestic One can help clean a bunch of other stuff as well, like the awnings and the fiberglass panels.

Aside from making those materials shine, it does not also cause even a bit of damage. Even though this product is quite versatile, it is still an efficient cleaner. It boasts of its professional-grade quality, meaning it is potent stuff, even though stains like dried-on bird droppings and heavy oxidation stains are no match for the Dometic roof cleaner.

If you have a rather old RV and you want to make it look almost like new, start by using this product. As mentioned earlier, it is quite concentrated, so a little bit can go a long way. You can probably clean the entirety of your roof using just a couple of capfuls of this stuff.

I have a 30-foot RV, and I just needed four capfuls diluted in a small gallon-bucket of water to clean it thoroughly. If you will be dealing with real tough stains, you can use a bit of this cleaner at full strength for spot treatments.

In my opinion, the best feature of this product is the fact that it is completely biodegradable. It means that you can safely use it virtually everywhere, even somewhere near a body of water, like a creek or brook. You cannot avoid spilling a lot of this cleaner, but at least, you can rest assured that the amount you will spill will not negatively affect the environment in any way.

There is nothing about this product that warrants a real complaint. However, you need to dilute it in some water – four capfuls to one gallon of water. I have rather shaky hands, and the cap of this cleaner is a bit small, so getting an accurate solution every time is pretty hard.
What We Like
  • Cleans RV rubber roofs rather well
  • Useful at full-strength for the spot stain treatment
  • Concentrated stuff – so a little of it can go a long way
  • Can deal with tough dirt and stains
  • Completely biodegradable and eco-friendly
What We Don’t Like
  • A bit tricky to get an accurate dilution every time
There is nothing serious to complain about with this product. It can clean thoroughly and is safe for plants and animals, so you should at least give it a try.

9. Bio-Kleen M02409 Roof Clean and Protect

The next highly-recommended product that I deem one of the best RV roof cleaners is the Bio-Kleen M02409 Roof Clean and Protect. It is very concentrated and will need to be diluted in equal parts of water.

RV-owners have many good things to say about this powerful solution. For instance, they claim that just a little bit of it can go a long way. I used it on the roof of my 30-foot RV, and I managed to use less than a third of the gallon bottle.

What I am so impressed with about this cleaning product is that it is also useful at full strength for spot cleaning heavy stains and dirt. I had to use this rubber roof cleaner for RV this way because there were a lot of stains left by tree sap. With the help of this product, those stains went away with minimal scrubbing.

Even though it is tough on stains, it does not ruin the surface of the rubber roof. It does not contain any chlorine or petroleum distillates that can dry up the rubber material and cause it to crack and split. More than that, the product promises thorough moisturization and conditioning for your RV rubber roof.

This complete cleaning system leaves behind a thin protective layer that repels dirt and grime away from the roof surface. Bio-Kleen claims that this protective layer can last for around six months, which means that you do not have to clean the roof of your RV quite as often.

The only thing that did not impress me about it is that you need to make sure that you also rinse away the runoff that comes from the roof after you finish washing it. If not, you will be getting some white streaks running down the sides of your RV.
What We Like
  • Highly effective for tough dirt and stains
  • Can be used at full strength for spot treatments and tough, deep-seated stains
  • Contains a protectant to repel dirt and grime from the surface
  • Comes with a protective layer lasting up to six months
  • Completely biodegradable and safe for the flora and fauna
What We Don’t Like
  • Leaves a white residue down the sides of the RV if not being rinsed thoroughly
Although there is an issue about the runoff staining the sides of my RV, it is not that much of a big deal as you can still rinse it off quickly. Do not let it dissuade you from using this product as it is genuinely superb.

10. L R Liquid Rubber RV Roof Smart Cleaner

What makes the model from Liquid Rubber stand out is the fact that it is one of the fastest-acting roof cleaners on the toughest stains.

I use it to get rid of the stains left behind by rotting leaves, and I barely have to do any scrubbing. The oxygen bleach in this cleaning product does most of the work for me. I only have to rinse the suds away.

As mentioned, instead of chlorine bleach, this cleaning product uses oxygen bleach, which cleans without discolouration. With this solution, your RV rubber roof will not become too dry to the point it cracks.

Also, I notice that because the LR roof smart cleaner does not contain any bleach, it is very much safe for the environment. This cleaner also does not contain petroleum distillates, so it is relatively non-toxic both for plants and animals. With that, you do not have to worry even if you live right next to a small body of water. Hence, you can conveniently wash your RV without worrying about the environmental effects.

Another thing that I like about this product is it is a ready-to-use solution. You do not have to dilute the cleaner before applying it on the surface that requires cleaning. For incredibly tough stains, you just let the cleaner steep for a minute then scrub with a medium-bristled brush.

There isn’t anything that bad that I can say about this product. It does everything that it promises to do and more. Therefore, it is a bit on the pricey side, and you have to buy the protectant separately.
What We Like
  • Fast-acting to start lifting dirt and stains immediately and upon contact
  • Works on rubber roofs, as well as fiberglass, metal, and even wood
  • Does not contain any bleach or petroleum distillates
  • Proven to be easy to use
  • Completely biodegradable and non-toxic
What We Don’t Like
  • A bit expensive and does not come with a protectant
This product is highly recommended, especially if the roof of your RV has been neglected for a couple of years. It will make it look almost like new.

11. Camco 41063 Pro-Strength Rubber Roof Cleaner

The next product coming from a reliable brand for you to check out is the Camco 41063 Pro-Strength Rubber Roof Cleaner.

It gains numerous compliments on the incredible efficacy in Camco rubber roof cleaner and conditioner reviews. I think that it is mainly because it does what it promises and more. It is great for dealing with the usual tough dirt and stains, like disgusting bird droppings, dried tree sap, and road grime.

I am also glad that it is not just suitable for the rubber roofs of RVs, but also for cleaning and restoring fiberglass, plastic, and even wooden surfaces. I have tried using this product for my plastic patio furniture, and the results show that they look almost brand new.

Another great thing that made the Camco 41453 pro-tec pro-strength rubber roof care system one of my favourites is that it does not only clean the surface of my RV’s rubber roof but also conditions and revitalizes the material. It essentially extends the life of the rubber roof with every application.

Furthermore, you will find it useful at full strength for spot treating stubborn stains. It is particularly good at treating tree sap stains, moss stains, and even heavy oxidation. For the latter, you might need a bit more elbow grease to scrub deep-seated stains out.

Beyond that, you have to rinse the stuff thoroughly as you wash the roof in sections if you do not want the white residue stuck on the RV.
What We Like
  • Can deal with the usual dirt and stains with relative ease
  • Can be used at full strength for difficult stains
  • Conditions and moisturizes the rubber to make it more pliable and resistant to wear
  • Works almost immediately with minimal scrubbing
  • Extends the service lifespan on your rubber roof almost indefinitely
What We Don’t Like
  • Leaves a white residue along the sides of the RV if not rinsed properly
Camco has been at the forefront of RV care products for years, and this rubber roof cleaner of theirs is not an exception. You should consider getting this one and trying it out.

12. Propack B.E.S.T. 55128 Rubber Roof Cleaner

The neat thing about this cleaner and protectant from BEST is that it can deep clean the rubber roofs of RVs without using chlorine bleach and petroleum distillates.

For your information, it is also completely eco-friendly and biodegradable, so there is no risk of harming the environment even if you spill a bit of it on the ground.

Even though it does not contain any caustic substances, this cleaning product uses a professional-strength formula. It can even handle the toughest of stains. It can deal with common stains effortlessly. Aside from that, it can also get rid of tree sap stains and bird droppings with little effort.

Another major function of this roof cleaner is cleaning the roof surface efficiently while also conditioning the rubber. With that, it can help prevent the material from drying up too much under the heat and UV-rays of the sun. This product moisturizes and conditions the rubber material to make it last much longer.

It also leaves a layer of protectant that repels dirt and grime from attaching onto the surface of the roof. Also, I am glad to say that this protectant also prevents the growth of mold and mildew, which can lead to a lot of other serious problems.

This product does what it is supposed to do, but if there is something even remotely negative to say about it, then it is that the protectant layer that it leaves on the roof is quite oily.
What We Like
  • Completely biodegradable and non-toxic
  • Does not contain chlorine bleach
  • Promises no risk of discolouration
  • Deep cleans and lifts deep-seated stains
  • Conditions and revitalizes old rubber roofs
What We Don’t Like
  • Leaves a greasy protectant layer
The greasy protectant layer is not that huge of an issue. It is more like a slight inconvenience, so I can still prove that it is one of the best cleaning products available right now.

Best RV Roof Cleaners Buying Guide

best-rv-roof-cleaner-and-protectant

Before you purchase a particular RV roof cleaner, or worse, use a homemade RV roof cleaner, here are a few crucial factors you need to take into consideration to ensure that you are not buying the wrong kind.

The type of roof your RV has – RVs typically have one of two types of roof material. It is either constructed from a rubber matting on top of sheet metal or made of fiberglass. You need to choose the right kind of cleaning product that will not harm or damage the roof of your RV.

There are several multi-purpose cleaners out there that can work on both rubber and fiberglass. However, these cleaners are usually not as efficient in cleaning compared to cleaning products dedicated to particular roofing material.

On the other hand, if you do not know what material your roof is made of, it would be a good idea to use a multi-purpose cleaning product.

The size of your RV – Considering the size of your RV is vital in finding out how much cleaning products you need to buy. You would not want to buy a particular size bottle of a cleaning product only to find that you only have enough to wash half of your roof.

It is the reason why you should not buy one of those multi-purpose cleaners in spray bottles if you have to clean the roof of a 40-foot long RV. You will end up spending more money than you should. However, if you will only be cleaning a small teardrop travel trailer, then that one spray bottle should be enough.

If you are cleaning a large vehicle, then I suggest getting a gallon container of the concentrated RV roof cleaner. That way, you will have more than enough product to clean your RV roof several times over.

Ease of use – Most of the RV roof cleaning products you will encounter are usually pretty simple and straightforward to use. It may earn a lot of points from many RV owners. But then again, some companies think that it is better to make things more complicated than they should be.

To be sure that you will not be getting one of those overly complicated cleaning products, you should check the instructions printed on the packaging. If you can understand the step-by-step instructions and believe you can follow them easily, then you have a cleaning product that is worthy of your time and money right there.

Cleaning efficiency – There is no way to tell how effective a particular cleaner is without having to try it out for yourself. However, you can consult with various customer reviews that you can find online.

You can also find vloggers that report on different kinds of cleaning products on YouTube. This one is particularly great because you can see the product in action other than just reading about it.

If there are any available, get the smallest package of the cleaning product that you can. If you can buy a small pouch or packet of the stuff, then it would be better. You can then test out each one of the products that you can find and see which one of them does a better job at cleaning.

Additional features – When it comes to roof cleaners, you need to keep an eye out for the protective coating. You should find out if the cleaning product also leaves a protective coating after rinsing.

Another advice is to find out if the cleaning product comes bundled with a separate protective coating that you have to apply separately.

Versatility – It would be great if the cleaning product that you bought can also clean the other parts of your RV, and not just the roof. Although having a dedicated roof cleaning product is preferable, then it is worth checking out if it is also useful in cleaning the entire RV.

However, as mentioned before, buying a dedicated roof cleaner is better. But if you can find a multi-purpose cleaning product that can somewhat work similarly, then go for the one that is more convenient to use.

Is the product biodegradable? – It is quite unavoidable that a lot of the cleaning product will spill onto the ground. It is the reason why you need to make sure that the product you buy is at least eco-friendly. Users should consider looking for any indication on the label that states that it is biodegradable and non-toxic to both plants and animals.

If you enjoy camping out in the great outdoors, you should at least do whatever you can to not contribute any more to our already damaged ecosystem.

Price – Just like in most other cases, you get what you pay for when it comes to RV roof cleaning products. However, you do not have to get the absolute most expensive one available. Keep in mind that lots of products that fall in the middle-range prices are quite good as well.

To make sure that you do not go overboard, set a respectable budget for purchasing roof cleaners. Set one that is around the median price of cleaning products, if possible, up to 125% of the median to be on the safe side.

Also, keep in mind the amount of cleaning product you will get for the price, so do not end up with multiple bottles of a certain product that might rack up the total price.

How Many Types of Roof Cleaners for RV Are There?

Basically, there are just two distinct types of RV roof cleaners – the ones that contain chlorine bleach and those that do not contain such harsh chemicals, making them often marketed as eco-friendly products.

Obviously, the downside to using a cleaning product with chlorine bleach is that it is not eco-friendly. When misused, it can also damage the roof surface. However, because chlorine bleach is such an effective surfactant, it can deal with tough stains better compared to the eco-friendly ones.

Eco-friendly cleaning products are completely biodegradable and non-toxic. One downside of using this kind of product is it can be quite expensive. Moreover, for the most part, you will need to do a couple of passes over one area to clean it thoroughly.

How Do RV Roof Cleaners Work?

The way this product works will depend on the type of roof cleaner you have decided to use. The most common, and most affordable, is the two-step system. It refers to a set of two cleaning products – one is a surfactant that lifts and washes away the dirt and grime on the surface, and sometimes even beneath the surface.

It is then followed by a product that leaves a protective layer over the recently cleaned surface. You can expect it to help prevent dirt and dust from latching onto the surface. Aside from that, it protects against harmful elements.

You can also take advantage of the one-step cleaning products where the detergent/surfactant and the protective product are rolled into one. You can see these products often contained inside spray bottles and directly sprayed onto the surface to be cleaned.

In most cases, you do not even need to lather up these cleaners. You just have to spray them on the surface, wait a couple of minutes, and then wipe the excess away. Just like any other part of your RV, you need to take care of the roof properly. If not, it can lead to a multitude of costly repairs.

Who Makes the Best Roof Cleaner for RV?

Even the best homemade RV roof cleaner is no match for commercial products. You can find many brands that make roof cleaners for RVs, but not all of them are worth your time and money. However, with that said, you can also find several brands that provide an excellent cleaning product.

I have used many different RV roof cleaners throughout the years. With that, I discovered that among the best brands of cleaners for RVs that are available right now include B.E.S.T., Camco, Thetford, Dicor, Dometic, Bio-Kleen, L R, and Propack.

What Can I Use to Clean My RV Rubber Roof?

If you are one hundred percent sure that your RV has a rubber roof, then it is advisable to get a cleaning product that can clean rubber surfaces without damaging them. As much as possible, go for one that specifically states that it is made for RV rubber roofs.

Do not use the same detergent that you use to clean your bathroom. It will be too strong and might cause the surface of the roof to dry up and crack. It is also unwise to use bleach-based products on rubber roofing for RVs as it can eat through the rubber and ruin the material instead of cleaning it.

If there is heavy staining that you need to clean on the roof, you should get a product labelled as industrial-strength while still being only formulated for rubber roofs. These cleaning products are gentle enough not to damage the RV rubber roofing while also remaining strong enough to get most if not all of the tough stains on the roof.

Can You Use Bleach on a Rubber RV Roof?

It is generally not a good idea to use straight bleach to clean any RV roof, especially an RV roof rubber. It is the reason why you should not use a homemade RV cleaner, which usually contains dishwashing soap and some bleach to take out stains.

Instead of preserving the rubber roof, it will cause a plethora of damage, like discolouration, bubbling, drying and cracking, and overall deterioration. You can also find products formulated explicitly for rubber RV roofs.

Aside from doing a pretty good job in cleaning and removing different kinds of dirt and stains, these products can also protect the surface of the roof from further dirt and stains.

Making your RV cleaning product because you want to save money might lead to even more costly repairs later. With that in mind, it would be more beneficial for you to look for the most suitable one for your RV. It certainly deserves to be pampered.

Is It Okay to Power Wash an RV Roof?

No, you should not even think of using a high-pressure power washer to clean the roof of your RV no matter how dirty or stained it might be. Pressure washing can remove the dirt and grime from the roof. There is no doubt about that. However, those are not the only things that will come off.

You can also take off the gel gloss coating, the caulking from the seams, and in the case of rubber roofs, a power washer can peel off the roof itself. Another reason why you should not use a power washer is you might force water into the ceiling of your RV, which can cause even more costly damage later.

You can potentially ruin your entire RV because you want to take a shortcut in cleaning the roof, so you should not even think about doing it.

How Do You Use an RV Roof Cleaner?

In this section, you will learn about the common steps you have to take in using any RV roof cleaner safely and adequately. First, you need to ensure your safety. You will be working atop a tall vehicle and standing on a slippery surface, so the danger of slipping and falling is real.

You need to use a secure ladder when going up and down the roof, and hoist your cleaning supplies up the roof using a bucket and a piece of rope. Do not carry the supplies up the ladder. It is also advisable to wear grippy-soled shoes. Do not walk barefoot on the roof. Also, only walk on the safe parts of the roof.

Before you hose down the roof, use a broom and sweep off as much dirt, dust, and debris as you can. It will also be the right time to inspect the roof for any sign of mold and mildew. You will need to treat it later to prevent the fungi from spreading.

Also, check if the caulking is still good, and take note of the parts that might need touching up later. Rinse the roof of the RV to get rid of as much of the loose dirt that remained after sweeping up the roof. Now, you need to prepare the roof cleaner.

Dilute the cleaning product in a bucket with the right amount of water, and then use a long-handled, medium-bristled brush to apply it on the roof surface. It is alright to use a medium-stiffness brush on the roof since you do not have to worry about micro-scratches as the roof is usually dull anyway.

To make the cleaning process safer, clean the rubber roof in sections, starting from the front and work your way to the back where the ladder is. This way, you will not be walking on the just cleaned surface.

Rinse off the cleaner with clean water, and use a mop brush to dry off the roof as much as you can. If the cleaning product does not contain a protectant, you should apply it using the brush mop to make it easier on your back.

Care and Maintenance

If there is still a considerable amount of RV roof cleaner leftover, you can store it away for the next time you will be washing the roof of your RV. Speaking of which, you will need to wash it ideally four times a year.

Other RV Roof Cleaners We Reviewed

TR Industries Gel-Gloss RV Wash and Wax

This heavy-duty RV cleaner is one of the best that you can use for an RV roof right now. It works well even if the roof of your RV is made of fiberglass.

Key Features:

  • Cleans and leaves a protective wax layer on the roof
  • Contains high-quality and high-gloss carnauba wax
  • Completely biodegradable

Camco Pro-Tec Rubber Roof Cleaner

This Camco product refers to a cleaner specifically made for rubber RV roofs. Aside from being effective in cleaning, it also protects and extends the life of your RV roof.

Key Features:

  • Deeply cleans rubber RV roofs
  • Can easily get rid of stubborn dirt like tree sap and even oxidation
  • Helps extend the service lifespan of your roof

Thetford Premium RV Rubber Roof Cleaner

This professional-grade rubber RV roof cleaner can remove stubborn dirt and stains. It also conditions the material to make it last longer.

Key Features:

  • Specially formulated for rubber roofs
  • Can dissolve and remove deep-seated dirt and grime
  • Non-toxic, non-abrasive, and completely biodegradable

Star Brite RV Wash & Wax

This product is an all-around RV cleaner. You can use it to wash the body and the roof of the RV as well.

Key Features:

  • Requires only a couple of capfuls diluted in water to clean your entire roof
  • Tough on dirt but will not damage the surface of the RV
  • Leaves a protective wax coating on the surface after washing

303 (30320) Products Aerospace Protectant

Keep your RV’s rubber roof always looking like new for many years using this aerospace-grade surface protectant.

Key Features:

  • Protects and brightens up the surface of your RV’s roof
  • Ideal for use on other surfaces like leather, vinyl, and plastic, too
  • Protects against the damaging UV sun rays

Valterra LLC V88548 Rubber ROOF Cleaner

This product is not just any ordinary rubber roof cleaner. It also revitalizes and recondition roofs.

Key Features:

  • Can be used on all rubber and other synthetic surfaces
  • Works well against tough dirt and stains
  • Deep cleans and provides a layer of protection

Star Brite 75800 0 Premium RV Rubber Roof Cleaner

This professional-grade rubber roof cleaner will make short work of even the toughest dirt and stains on your RV.

Key Features:

  • Specifically formulated so that it can loosen and lift dirt without the need for heavy scrubbing
  • Cleans rubber roofs thoroughly without damaging the surface
  • Useful on rubber roofs while also being safe to use on fiberglass and paint

EternaBond 801.1415 EC-1 EternaClean Spray Cleaner

This product is a spot cleaner that gets rid of any dirt on the roof, or in any part of the RV, in preparation for spot fixes.

Key Features:

  • Formulated to allow surfaces to release the contaminants trapped underneath the surface
  • No chlorine bleach content as it is completely biodegradable
  • Prepares the surfaces that require paint repair or touch-ups

Conclusion

The roof of the RV is often the most ignored part of the vehicle when it comes to cleaning. However, you have to start prioritizing it now. It is crucial to keep it clean to prevent severe damage, which can then result in even more costly damages later.

If you want to keep the roof and the rest of your RV in the best condition and maintain it that way for many years, you will need to use the best RV roof cleaner that you can find.

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