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Updated September 20, 2025
If you’ve ever asked, “Can I wash my RV with Dawn dish soap?”, you’re not alone. Dawn is famous for cutting grease – even oil off wildlife – so many RV owners assume it’s safe. But when it comes to washing your camper, motorhome, or travel trailer, the real answer depends on where and how you use it.
In this updated guide, we’ll cover:
- ✅ The best soap to wash an RV
- ✅ Whether Dawn is safe for RV exteriors, roofs, and awnings
- ✅ Tips for removing black streaks and tree sap
- ✅ Where you can wash your RV (DIY, truck wash, or mobile wash services)
Let’s dive in.
Is Dawn Dish Soap Safe for Washing RV Exteriors?
While Dawn will remove dirt, bugs, and grime, it can also strip away protective wax and sealants. If you use it, always re-apply wax or UV protectant.
Better alternative: RV-specific cleaners such as:
Can I Use Dawn on My RV Roof?
Yes—for most roofs. Many RVers safely use Dawn on:
- Rubber Roofs (EPDM/TPO): Clean 3–4 times a year. Avoid citrus, petroleum, or abrasive cleaners.
- Fiberglass Roofs: Use non-toxic, biodegradable soap.
Always inspect seals and cracks while cleaning. And check your manual before walking on the roof—some aren’t weight-rated.
👉 Learn more in our article 9 Easy Tips for Cleaning Your RV Rubber Roof.
Can I Wash My RV with Simple Green?
Yes. Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner and Wash & Wax are biodegradable and safe for RV exteriors, roofs, and awnings.
- Awnings: Spray both sides, roll for 5 minutes, rinse.
- Mold & Mildew: Use vinegar + baking soda or a mild bleach solution (check manufacturer first).
👉 For more details, check our article on Homemade RV Awning Cleaner.
Can I Pressure Wash My RV?
Be careful. High PSI can damage decals, paint, and seals.
- Stay under 1200 PSI.
- Use a foam cannon for gentle cleaning.
- For roofs, stick with a long-handled soft brush.
👉 Many readers also ask: Is Pressure Washing an RV Safe?
Best Soap for Washing an RV (2025 Picks)
Top RV wash products recommended by owners and detailers:
- Star brite RV Wash & Wax
- Reliable 1 Cleaner (Best for Black Streaks)
- 303 RV Wash and Seal
- Valterra Awning Cleaner
👉 See our full roundup of How to Clean the Outside of a Camper Trailer.
Will Dawn Dish Soap Remove Black Streaks?
Not effectively. Black streaks come from roof runoff baking onto RV siding. Use Reliable 1 Black Streak Remover or Star brite Black Streak Cleaner instead.
Can Dawn Remove Tree Sap?
Yes, for light sap. For stubborn spots, try:
- Rubbing alcohol
- Goo Gone
- Turpentine
- Formula 409
Always rinse with soap and water after spot cleaning.
Where Can I Wash My RV?
Options include:
- Campgrounds (check rules; may charge a fee)
- Mobile RV wash/detail services (charged by the foot, includes waxing)
- Truck washes like Blue Beacon ($40–$60 nationwide)
- DIY at home (garden hose, RV wash soap, microfiber towels)
👉 Considering a Mobile RV Wash service? Check out our article called: Is Mobile RV Wash & Detailing Worth It? My Experience & Tips
Final Thoughts: Should You Wash Your RV with Dawn?
You can use Dawn, but it’s best reserved for roofs, awnings, or spot cleaning tree sap—not your whole RV exterior. Stick with RV-specific soaps for the best long-term protection and shine.
Regular cleaning—whether you DIY or hire pros—will keep your RV looking sharp, extend its life, and protect your investment.
🚐✨ Happy washing, and safe travels!
Related Reading:
How to Clean the Outside of a Camper Trailer
9 Easy Tips for Cleaning Your RV Rubber Roof
Homemade RV Awning Cleaner
Can I Use Flex Seal on My RV Roof?
Best Sealant for RV Windows – Leakproof Your RV!
RV Roof Reseal Cost
About the author
Terri Nighswonger – Author and Full Time RVer
Terri Nighswonger and her husband Todd have been RVing and work camping for six years with their Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Newton, and their Minnie Australian Shepherd, Remi. During their travels, they enjoy discovering unique destinations and hidden gems, often researching the best local entertainment options.
In Addition to the RVBlogger team, Terri has written for RV Life and RV Camping Magazine and is always excited to talk about her passion for RVing and her knowledge and experience in work camping.
Writing is Terri’s passion, but she also loves hiking, kayaking, walking her dogs, and anything she can do outdoors.
They originate from the Midwest but plan to enjoy the West for a few years, wintering in Arizona and summering wherever the road may lead.
I’ve pretty much spent most of my morning reading most of your blogs.
I MUST say that they were read with amazed interest.
An ABSOLUTELY AMAZING site.
There isn’t a day that you shouldn’t learn something.
KUDOS my friends.
Caution for bare aluminum siding/roofing on RVs (Airstream) and trailers when utilizing Truck Washes. Many use a acid wash that will discolor bare aluminum, especially where it runs down the siding. I made this mistake recently and my siding is discolored as a result.
I made the mistake of using Simple Green to wash a fiberglass boat. I washed one side at a time. By the time I finished washing one side, I hosed it off. When it dried streaks now run from top to bottom on that side of the boat. And it doesn’t matter what I do to try to remove them, short of taking it to a fiberglass body shop. I DO NOT recommend Simple Green.
Tim Lercbacker