Proper Washing Tips
1. Wash the wheels first. This prevents you from
splattering cleaners, dirt and brake dust on already cleaned panels.
2. Make sure your RV’s finish is cool and work in the
shade if at all possible. A hot surface causes the wash and rinse water to
evaporate too quickly, increasing the likelihood of water spotting. One trick
I’ve learned is to park on a slight incline. This allows the rinse water to
run off moldings, trim, and recessed areas better. Start by thoroughly wetting
the RV’s finish with a medium spray of water to remove loose grit and surface
dirt.
3. Use a car wash shampoo specifically formulated for
automotive or RV use. Look for a shampoo containing surface conditioners and/or
natural oils. These oils act as a lubricant. Sand and abrasive grit slide off in
the rinse water without scratching the surface. These shampoos cost a little
more but are worth every penny if you own a dark color car. Eimann
Fabrik Gentle Shampoo
and P21S
Bodywork Conditioning Shampoo are both highly recommended if you
own a black, red or dark color RV. Follow the directions on the bottle for the
proper mix ratio. Using too much soap is wasteful and may leave a slight soap
residue on the surface.
4. I prefer a natural
(not synthetic) sea sponge for washing. Natural sponges have a
large number of fine filaments that draw dirt and grime away from the surface
being cleaned into their internal cell structure. Synthetic (flat sided) sponges
trap dirt, grit and grime on the surface which can cause fine scratches in the
paint. If you use a natural sea sponge, use the outer “soft” side for
washing, not the harder “cut” side and always rinse new sponges thoroughly
to remove any remaining sand or shell particles. A natural sea sponge should
last 12 to 18 months of normal use.
Sheepskin
wash mitts are preferred by many enthusiasts and have the same
characteristics of a natural sponge. They keep grit away from the surface and
should last for years. 100% cotton chenille wash mitts and pads are also
excellent as they hold lots of soapy water yet are paint friendly. Cotton
Chenille Mitts and Cotton Chenille Pads are substantially less
expensive than sheepskin mitts & natural sponges and should last 6 months or
more of weekly washings.
5. Once you have your bucket, soap and hose, start
washing from the top down and rinse the RV often. Frequent rinsing is especially
important if you are using a wash containing natural oils. While these oils
cushion the paint and minimize abrasion they are heavier than water and can
leave a film if allowed to dry on the surface. I use a final rinse of free
flowing water (nozzle off the hose) allowing the water to sheet off the RV.