Even if your RV is in prime condition, a dirty, mildew-speckled awning will spoil its looks completely.
Whether you’ve stored it outside, or put away your awning wet, grime is an all too common occurrence, not to mention the bug splatter, bird poop, tree sap, and traffic grime, all common RV awning stains.
Using the best RV awning cleaner will restore your motorhome to its former glory, so you can park up and roll out your awning without feeling ashamed. In this article, we review the best options on the market today.
Table of Contents
Best RV Awning Cleaner
- Camco Best RV Awning Cleaner
Buy from AmazonRead Our Review - Star Brite Mildew Stain RemoverBuy from AmazonRead Our Review
- Thetford Premium RV Awning CleanerBuy from AmazonRead Our Review
- Valterra LLC V88542 Awning CleanerBuy from AmazonRead Our Review
- 303 Multi Surface Cleaner SprayBuy from AmazonRead Our Review
- B.E.S.T. RV Awning CleanerBuy from AmazonRead Our Review
- Korkay RV Awning CleanerBuy from AmazonRead Our Review
- Wet & Forget Awning CleanerBuy from AmazonRead Our Review
- Bugs N All – All-Purpose Vehicle CleanerBuy from AmazonRead Our Review
Here’s a selection of our top favorite RV awning cleaners. If your RV awning has seen better days, check out the following products to find the best cleaner for your motorhome awning.
Camco Awning Cleaner
This pro-strength RV awning cleaner by Camco is a popular choice thanks to its low price and high efficacy.
Simply mix four ounces of this concentrated formula to a gallon of fresh water, or use neat on stubborn stains – it’s a good choice for general maintenance as well as removing built-up grime.
Suitable for vinyl, acrylic, fabric, and nylon awnings, this RV awning clear is gentle on your awning material, yet tough on dirt, including tree sap, road grime, and bugs.
It can also be effective on black streaks, mildew, and mold, depending on their intensity – so it’s well worth trying out. Simply apply with a sponge or soft brush, tough stains will, however, require a bit of elbow grease and a couple of passes over.
Available in 32 ounces or a one-gallon format, this cleaner is cheaper than most dedicated RV cleaning products, making it excellent value for money. While it does not provide any protection for your awning, it is a great general cleaner that will help to keep your awning in prime condition. It isn’t noxious, although it does contain chemicals that can irritate your skin, so be sure to use gloves.
On the whole, this is an excellent budget-priced product that cleans well and can even tackle some serious staining when used repeatedly.
Star Brite Mildew Stain Remover
This special spray-on formula by Star Brite has been specifically developed to remove even years’ worth of mildew.
It gets to work quickly and is safe for most awning materials, including vinyl, fiberglass, and plastic. However, the main reason that it is so highly effective, often succeeding where others fail, is its buffered-bleach formula.
While this makes it our top pick for removing mildew from your RV awning, it also means it is unsuitable for use on fabrics, such as canvas, or colored materials which may fade. So, be sure to test on an inconspicuous area before use.
Unlike other RV awning cleaners, this special formula does not require heavy scrubbing. Simply spray on and leave it to work with a light brush over in case of stubborn stains. For a like-new finish, heavily soiled RV awnings may need a few applications.
Note that this product smells strongly of bleach and is best used outside for maximum ventilation. It contains sodium hypochlorite, so use gloves when applying and be careful to avoid run-off onto plants and into water sources.
If your RV awning is covered with mold or mildew, this cleaner makes an excellent choice and could even restore it fully to its former glory with just a few applications. One of the most effective formulas on mold and mildew, this makes it worth its above-average price tag for the saving in time and hassle cleaning.
Thetford Premium RV Awning Cleaner
If you are looking for a cleaner that won’t damage your RV awning, check out this Premium RV Awning Cleaner by Thetford. Containing no bleach, chlorine, or toxic chemicals, this biodegradable formula is safe for use on colored, vinyl, and fabric awnings.
Bear in mind that this gentle formula is less effective on stubborn stains; however, it is a great choice for maintaining your RV awning. It also helps to keep your awning in prime condition for longer thanks to its active UV blockers. So, if your awning is in good shape, or you have recently restored it, this cleaner makes a good choice for keeping it clean.
However, if your awning has a lot of stubborn stains, tree sap, or mildew, you’ll want to try out a more effective stain-removing formula, before moving on to this milder cleaning solution. If you are worried about your awning’s suitability with harsher chemical cleaning products, you may still want to try using this product on built-up grime, to avoid risking any deterioration.
Available in a 64-ounce bottle, this format should cover around 300-600 square feet of awning depending on how dirty it is. You can also purchase a spray-on 32-ounce bottle or a large one-gallon version.
If you are sensitive to harsh cleaners, or if you have a colored or fabric RV awning, then this biodegradable, non-toxic RV awning cleaner is a good choice. While it is less effective on stubborn stains, it is safer to use, has a pleasant fragrance, and will continue to protect your awning via its UV blocker.
If your awning is in good shape, but in need of a little TLC, this cleaner is a perfect choice.
Valterra LLC V88542 Awning Cleaner
This RV awning cleaner by Valterra is available in a 32-ounce format. It is suitable for use on all awning fabrics, making it a good choice if you are worried about harsher formulas that could damage your canvas or vinyl RV awning.
While the concentrated formula has been designed to remove dirt, mildew, mold, and tree sap, you may need to use it undiluted and to give it a good scrubbing in order to remove any noticeable stains. In short, this product works well for removing grime and general build-up; however, it is not really an effective stain remover for stubborn, baked-on stains.
A good choice for colored awnings, this formula will not cause any fading. It does not, however, contain any protectant, so you may want to treat your colored awning separately after cleaning. On the other hand, it does condition your awning which can help to improve its general appearance, making it easier to maintain and improving its lifespan.
If you are looking for a mild RV awning cleaner that is safe for use on all awning fabric types, then this version makes a good choice. It won’t fade your colored awning and it will remove all traces of general dirt and grime with just a light scrubbing.
303 Multi Surface Cleaner Spray
If you are looking for a good general cleaner that can also be safely used on your RV awning, take a look at this Multi Surface Cleaner Spray by 303.
Recommended by Sunbrella, this product is solvent and dye-free, as well as completely safe to use on any surface that can be cleaned with regular water, making it suitable for even synthetic and delicate fabrics.
This cleaner is very easy to use, simply spray it on, scrub, then rinse off. You may, however, need to use a fair amount on very dirty RV awnings. It is available in an easy to use 32-fluid ounce spray-on format, or for very dirty awnings you may want to pick up a larger gallon format or two sprays.
Once sprayed on, the formula loosens up built-up dirt and grime, making it easy to scrub your awning clean. To treat baked-on stains, multiple applications may be necessary, with a longer soak time and extra scrubbing.
However, note that this particular RV awning cleaner is not a stain remover, so if you are looking to remove mold or mildew stains in particular, there are other dedicated stain removal cleaners in this range, or else see our other recommendations.
While there are other more effective cleaners for removing stubborn stains, this version does an excellent job of lifting dirt for a clean awning. It is also really useful to have around, being suitable for most fabrics in your RV.
For the amount that you get, it doesn’t come cheap. But if you are looking for a spray-on RV awning cleaner without any harsh chemicals, that is good for use on all water-safe materials, then this is the one to go for.
B.E.S.T. Awning Cleaner
The B.E.S.T Awning Cleaner is a handy version to quickly lift recent stains and grime from your RV awning. Simply spray on and scrub it in, before rinsing off. It is easy to use, although it is not the cheapest awning cleaner around.
Suitable for use on acrylic, vinyl, synthetic and natural fabric awnings, this cleaner is suitable for all awning types. However, as it is only available in a 32-ounce spray-on format, it is less suitable for very soiled awnings that require extensive cleaning.
Easy to apply, you may find that it takes several applications to work effectively on stubborn stains such as mold and mildew. Longterm, baked-on stains, will require a lot of elbow grease, making this product more suitable for general cleaning, rather than effective stain removal.
If your RV awning is in good general condition, but in need of a light clean, this product makes a good choice. It also helps to protect against UV damage, weathering and salt, for a longer lasting, premium finish.
However, for treating highly soiled, aging RV awnings, we recommend taking a look at some of our other recommendations for a more intensive clean.
Korkay Awning Cleaner
For general RV maintenance, as well as getting your RV awning sparkling clean, check out this Awning Cleaner and Black Streak Remover by US firm Korkay. Available in a handy 32-fluid ounce spray-on format, this formula is a great choice for removing bugs, sap and pollutants with ease.
Suitable for most RV awnings, it is also safe for cleaning your RV exterior and removing black streaks. This makes it a handy option to have around for periodic use, as well as more intensive, maintenance cleaning sessions.
This product is a concentrated cleaner, so be careful when using and take all appropriate safety precautions, including wearing gloves. Be sure to only use it outdoors, as it does give off a very strong chemical odor.
Used with a scrubbing brush, this RV awning cleaner will get most RV awnings pretty clean, making it a good choice for restoring a new-to-you model with a neglected awning. As it can also be used to clean your RV exterior, it’s a good multi-purpose option to go for.
However, bear in mind that it does not contain any protectants, so you may want to purchase an additional product for that purpose.
Wet & Forget Cleaner
If you want an easy way to a sparkling clean RV awning then the Wet & Forget Cleaner will be just what you’re looking for. Simply attach your hose pipe to the 48-ounce hose-end bottle and spray your awning clean. No scrubbing or rinsing required.
Suitable for fabric, plastic and vinyl, this bleach-free formula is non-acidic and contains no phosphates, making it safe to use around landscaping and plants. It is not the cheapest, although it is very easy to use, saving you time and effort scrubbing and rinsing.
This formula works well on grime and dirt build-up, as well as staining, mold, and mildew. You may find that when you use this formula on very stubborn stains, it can take a few days to come completely clean. It is also long lasting and will help to keep your awning clean for several months onwards.
With your hose pipe attached, it can spray up to 30 feet and one bottle covers up to 2,000 square feet, making it good value for money as you can use it several times on your awning, even though the purchase price is higher than most others.
For an effortless way to get your RV awning clean, Wet & Forget is a popular choice that is both rapid and highly effective.
Bugs N All – All-Purpose Vehicle Cleaner
This all-purpose vehicle cleaner Bugs N All is a great choice for any motorhome. Not only will it remove bug splatter and black streaks from your RV, it is also effective at removing tree sap and stains from your awning.
At first glance, this concentrated version appears expensive. However, the four ounces dilute to make two quarts and it comes complete with a handy, empty one-quart spray bottle, making it easy to apply. So, it actually works out to be good value for money, despite its higher than the average price tag.
Non-toxic and non-corrosive, with no harsh chemicals or strong odors, you can use this product on virtually all types of awnings and around pets, children and plants, without worry. Spray on and leave it to get to work, scrub, then rinse. Stubborn stains, especially baked-on tree sap, can require multiple applications.
You can also use this RV awning cleaner on your RV exterior to remove back streaks, mildew, oxidation, and bird poop. This makes it a good versatile product that is handy to have around when you’re out and about. While it is good at general cleaning and lifting grime, bear in mind that it does not contain any protective ingredients.
On the whole, if you want a good general RV exterior spray-on cleaner that can also be used to brighten up your RV awning, this product is a popular choice that works very well.
Compare the Best RV Awning Cleaners
| Image | Title | Price | Rating | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
Camco Best RV Awning Cleaner |
$
|
Buy on Amazon | |
 |
Star Brite Mildew Stain Remover |
$$$
|
Buy on Amazon | |
 |
Thetford Premium RV Awning Cleaner |
$$$
|
Buy on Amazon | |
 |
Valterra LLC V88542 Awning Cleaner |
$$$
|
Buy on Amazon | |
 |
303 Multi Surface Cleaner Spray |
$$$$
|
Buy on Amazon | |
 |
B.E.S.T. RV Awning Cleaner |
$$$
|
Buy on Amazon | |
 |
Korkay RV Awning Cleaner |
$$$
|
Buy on Amazon | |
 |
Wet & Forget Awning Cleaner |
$$$$
|
Buy on Amazon | |
 |
Bugs N All – All-Purpose Vehicle Cleaner |
$$$$$
|
Buy on Amazon |
Buyer’s Guide to Buying the Best RV Awning Cleaner
To help you to find the very best RV awning cleaner, we’ve compiled this buyer’s guide. Read on to discover what to look out for when purchasing your motorhome awning cleaner.
Price
Most RV awning cleaners are fairly inexpensive and price is not always a good guide to efficacy.
In fact, you may find that some of the higher priced cleaners are less effective on stains and mold, but kinder to your awning fabric. So, if you have a very dirty awning with a lot of staining that has been there for several years, a more expensive cleaner is not always the best option.
On the other hand, if your RV is in good condition and you want to keep it that way, you may wish to opt for a higher priced RV awning cleaner that has a milder formula. Some RV awning cleaners also have built-in protectants that can help to protect your awning from UV rays and dirt build-up for a longer-lasting clean finish.
Lastly, as RV awning cleaners are sold in different formats, be sure to compare prices on a like-for-like basis. For example, a seemingly high-priced, concentrated version could actually work out cheaper once it is diluted and, therefore, better value for money than a ready-to-use version.
Type of Awning Cleaner
There are several different types of RV awning cleaner, so be sure to check out what’s available, to find the best one for your circumstances.
Some popular types include:
- Spray-on
- Concentrated
- Rinse-free
- Protective
- Mild formula
- Special mold and mildew removing formulas
We’ll take a look at some of these different types of awning cleaner in the following sections. However, when choosing your cleaner, you should focus upon your priorities and the condition of your RV awning.
For example, for very dirty awnings that may require multiple applications, you may wish to opt for a concentrated version. If you are short of time, a spray on or rinse-free formula will save you time and effort.
Spray
Spray-on RV awning cleaners are a highly practical choice.
Easy to apply, simply spray on as needed. You can spray extra over areas that have tougher stains, making spray bottles a good choice for spot treating. This can be handy when you get a new stain on your awning, allowing you to quickly remove it without having to mix up a large amount and treat your whole awning.
Concentrate
Concentrated formulas often provide good value for money, producing a large quality of diluted cleaner. They also have the added advantage of being easier to store.
What’s more, some concentrated RV awning cleaners can be used diluted to clean your whole awning, but dabbed on undiluted for extra stain removal power. For this reason, you may wish to look out for a concentrated version if your awning is in dire need of cleaning with a lot of staining.
Versatility
As space is limited when you’re RVing and there is no point spending extra dollars when you don’t need to, opting for a multi-purpose cleaner makes perfect sense.
Whether you go for an all-round cleaner for use inside and out, or an exterior and awning cleaner depends on your personal preferences and how dirty your awning really is.
Some RVers prefer to go for a dedicated awning cleaner for bi-annual cleaning, then pick a one-does-it-all go-to cleaner for when they’re out on the road. This means you can quickly treat any stains, wherever they are, before they become baked-on and more difficult to remove.
Biodegradable & No Harsh Chemicals
Whenever possible, you should opt for an RV awning cleaner that is biodegradable and has no harsh chemicals.
Not only is this better for the environment, but also for your health. Some cleaners contain chemicals that can be extremely dangerous or even fatal if ingested.
No Chlorine
Chlorine, commonly found in household bleach, is a powerful cleaner, but it also causes colors to fade. If you have a colored awning, then you will want to look for a chlorine-free RV awning cleaner.
Also, bear in mind that while chlorine is used to get whites sparkling, on some fabrics it can, in fact, cause certain fibers to yellow, especially when exposed to sunlight over extended periods of time.
Your Awning’s Fabric
Not all awning fabrics are compatible with every type of cleaner.
Be sure to check that your RV awning cleaner lists your awning fabric as being suitable before proceeding to clean. In particular, you may find that certain formulas are unsuitable for use with natural fibers such as canvas.
Synthetics, vinyl and acrylics are generally compatible with RV specific awning cleaners. However, they may be unsuitable for cleaning with regular household cleaners – so always be sure to use an RV-specific product that mentions your awning type of fabric.
Effectiveness
Effectiveness is difficult to measure across the board and what works well on one type of stain, doesn’t always work well for others.
This is why it is important to consider the general condition of your awning before purchasing a cleaner. If your RV awning is predominantly covered in mildew, then a specialist mildew remover will be more effective for better results.
For general dirt and grime, most RV awning cleaners are very effective. As stated earlier, if you are looking for a cleaner to remove stubborn stains, you may be better off purchasing a concentrated version that you can use neat.
Most RV awning cleaners will require some scrubbing in order to fully remove staining. The same cleaner can be a lot more effective if given a longer soak time, harder scrubbing and multiple applications, depending on your awning condition.
If this sounds like too much had work, you may wish to look for an awning cleaner with harsher chemicals to use as a one-off, then to purchase a milder, regular RV awning cleaner for maintenance cleaning.
Safety – Non-toxic
For your own health and the environment, it’s best to use non-toxic cleaners. This is also important if you have children or pets, who could potentially accidentally ingest your cleaning products.
You should also consider where you will be using your RV awning cleaner and where it will go once you rinse it off. Toxic cleaners can damage your plants and surroundings, or even end up being released into nature where they could harm local wildlife or pets.
Protective Features
If possible, opt for an RV cleaner that has built-in protective features.
UV blockers help you to keep your awning looking like new by protecting it from the sun’s rays which can cause colors to fade or yellowing.
Some RV awning cleaners condition your awning, while others help to prevent dirt from building up after washing.
Top RV Awning Cleaners Video
Frequently Asked Questions about RV Awning Cleaners
Cleaning and maintaining your RV awning is essential to preserve its appearance, functionality, and longevity. However, with various cleaning products and techniques available, it’s natural to have questions about the best practices for keeping your RV awning in pristine condition. In this FAQ section, we address common inquiries and provide expert answers to help you make informed decisions when it comes to selecting the best RV awning cleaner and caring for your awning. Whether you’re a seasoned RV owner or a newbie in the world of recreational vehicles, this FAQ section will guide you through the essential aspects of RV awning cleaning, materials, safety precautions, and maintenance tips. Read on to find answers to your burning questions and ensure your RV awning remains a reliable and visually appealing part of your outdoor adventures.
Why do I need a specific cleaner for my RV awning? Can’t I just use regular soap and water?
RV awnings are typically made from specialized materials, such as vinyl or acrylic, which require gentle cleaning agents to prevent damage. Regular soap and water may not effectively remove stubborn stains or mildew, and harsh chemicals can degrade the fabric. Using a dedicated RV awning cleaner is recommended to ensure proper care and maintenance.
How often should I clean my RV awning?
It’s a good idea to clean your RV awning at least twice a year, preferably before and after the camping season. Regular cleaning helps prevent the build-up of dirt, debris, and stains, and extends the lifespan of your awning. However, if you notice any specific stains or signs of mildew, it’s best to clean your awning as soon as possible.
Can I use the same cleaner for both vinyl and acrylic awnings?
Some RV awning cleaners are formulated to work on both vinyl and acrylic awnings, while others may be specific to one type of material. It’s essential to check the product label or manufacturer’s instructions to ensure compatibility with your awning material. Using the wrong cleaner may cause damage or discoloration.
Are there any specific safety precautions I should take while using an RV awning cleaner?
Yes, when using an RV awning cleaner, it’s important to follow the safety instructions provided by the manufacturer. In general, it’s advisable to wear protective gloves and goggles to avoid skin or eye irritation. Also, make sure to work in a well-ventilated area and avoid inhaling any fumes. If the cleaner comes into contact with your skin or eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical attention if necessary.
Can I use a pressure washer to clean my RV awning?
It’s generally not recommended to use a pressure washer directly on your RV awning. The high-pressure water stream can damage the fabric or strip away any protective coatings. Instead, opt for a soft brush or sponge along with a suitable awning cleaner to gently remove dirt and stains.
How do I remove tough stains or mildew from my RV awning?
For tough stains or mildew, you may need to use a specialized cleaner or a mildew remover designed specifically for RV awnings. Follow the instructions provided by the product manufacturer, which usually involve applying the cleaner, letting it sit for a specific duration, and then rinsing thoroughly. For stubborn stains, you may need to repeat the process or consider professional cleaning services.
Can I use an RV awning cleaner on other parts of my RV?
RV awning cleaners are specifically formulated for awning materials and may not be suitable for other parts of your RV, such as the exterior walls or roof. It’s essential to use the appropriate cleaners designed for those surfaces. Always read the labels and follow the instructions for any cleaning products you use on your RV.
Are there any additional maintenance tips to keep my RV awning in good condition?
Along with regular cleaning, there are a few maintenance tips to ensure your RV awning stays in good condition. Avoid storing the awning while it’s wet to prevent mildew growth. Retract the awning during strong winds or storms to prevent damage. Additionally, consider applying a fabric protectant or UV blocker to help prolong the life of your awning and protect it from the sun’s harmful rays.
Remember, it’s always best to consult your RV awning manufacturer’s recommendations and guidelines for specific cleaning and maintenance instructions.
Disclaimer: This FAQ section provides general information and suggestions. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines for the specific products you use on your RV awning.
Final Thoughts
A dirty, mildew-stained awning can really spoil the appearance of your RV and even affect its resale value. Thankfully, there’s a great choice of RV awning cleaners out there that will help to keep your vehicle looking its best.
Keep your RV awning spotless and prevent stains from setting in with Thetford’s Premium RV Awning Cleaner. Its mild formula is suitable for all RV awning types and it is also non-toxic and biodegradable. A great choice to keep your awning in prime condition.
For general maintenance cleaning and stain removal, go for the ever-popular Camco Awning Cleaner. This inexpensive product does a great job of getting all awning types clean and is good on stains too.
If you need a heavy-duty mold and mildew cleaner for your RV awning, try out Star Brite Mildew Stain Remover. This product requires a minimal amount of scrubbing and works instantly to remove mold and mildew on even older RVs and pop-up campers.
Lastly, if you don’t have the time or the will to spend hours scrubbing at your RV awning, try out Wet & Forget. Simply spray down your awning and leave it to clean all by itself, for a minimum of fuss and an easy, rinse-free way to a good clean awning.
Whatever the circumstances, you’re sure to find the best RV awning cleaner for you in our selection!
