Cleaning Your Camper: Removing White Streaks Effectively

White and black streaks on campers are a common problem, often caused by dirt, dust, or mould build-up, or by water from rain or air conditioners running down the surface of the camper. To prevent white streaks, it is recommended to keep the camper clean, use a car wax or sealant, and wash the camper regularly. To remove white streaks, you can try using a glass cleaner or a professional-strength cleaner. For black streaks, there are several methods you can try, including using a black streak remover, WD-40, lemon juice or white vinegar, Murphy's Oil Soap, car wax, toothpaste, baking soda, carpet cleaner, Soft Scrub, or ammonia.

Clean your roof and oxidation off the body

White streaks on your camper are an indication that there is residue on the roof. This could be due to oxidization or dirt build-up. To prevent this, you should regularly clean your camper's roof and body.

Cleaning the Roof

When cleaning your camper's roof, it is important to avoid using abrasive cleaners, citric cleansers, or products that contain petroleum distillate, as these can damage the roof. Instead, use a soft brush and a mixture of soap and water to scrub the surface. Rinse the roof with clean water and be sure to also rinse the sides and front of the camper to prevent streaking.

Removing Oxidation

If the white streaks are caused by oxidization, you will need to use a special rubber roof cleaner. Look for a product that is designed to remove oxidation and follow the instructions on the label. You may also need to apply an acrylic coating to the roof to protect it from further deterioration.

Preventing Future Streaks

To prevent white streaks from reappearing, it is important to keep your camper clean. Wash your camper regularly, paying special attention to the roof and body. You can also apply a car wax or sealant to protect the surface and make it easier to clean.

Alternative Methods

If you are looking for a more intense clean, you can try using a pressure washer or a drive-in car wash. For smaller areas, such as windows, you can use a glass cleaner or a ceramic glass cleaner and coating to repel the white substance.

Wash and wax the roof

Washing and waxing the roof of your camper is an important step in keeping it well-maintained and streak-free. Here's a detailed guide to help you through the process:

Step 1: Prepare the Necessary Supplies

Before you begin, gather all the supplies you'll need for the job. This includes a suitable cleaner, such as a specialised rubber roof cleaner or a mild soap like Dawn Dish Soap, as well as a brush or sponge for scrubbing, and plenty of clean water. You may also want to wear protective gear, such as gloves and eye protection, to shield yourself from any chemicals.

Step 2: Clean the Roof

Start by thoroughly cleaning the roof of your camper. Fill a bucket with clean water and add a small amount of your chosen cleaner. Dunk your brush or sponge into the mixture and gently scrub the entire roof surface. Be careful not to use too much pressure, especially if you have a rubber roof, as this can cause damage. Rinse the roof with clean water to remove any remaining dirt and cleaning solution. Ensure that you also clean the sides and front of the camper to prevent streaking from the roof run-off.

Step 3: Dry the Roof

Once you've finished cleaning the roof, take the time to dry it thoroughly. Use clean towels or a squeegee to remove any remaining water or moisture from the surface. This step is important, as it will help prevent water spots and streaking from occurring again soon after cleaning.

Step 4: Apply Wax

After the roof is completely dry, it's time to apply a layer of wax. Choose a high-quality car wax or a specialised product like Reliable 1 Super Spray All-Purpose Cleaner. Follow the instructions on the product and apply a thin, even coat to the entire roof surface. Let the wax sit for a few minutes, as per the manufacturer's instructions.

Step 5: Buff the Roof

The final step is to buff the roof to a shine. Use a soft, clean cloth to gently buff the waxed surface. This will help remove any excess wax and create a smooth, streak-free finish. Buffing the roof will also help to shed water more effectively, reducing the chance of streaking in the future.

By regularly washing and waxing your camper's roof, you can effectively prevent and remove white streaks. Remember to always follow product instructions and take the necessary safety precautions when working on your camper's roof.

Use a gutter or an acrylic coating

Gutters can be an effective way to prevent white streaks on your camper, which are often caused by water from rain or air conditioners running down the exterior of your camper and leaving behind dirt and pollutants. By installing a gutter or a mini gutter to the sides of your camper, you can help direct the water flow and prevent it from running down the sides of your camper, reducing the likelihood of streaks forming.

Additionally, you can consider applying an acrylic coating to your camper's roof to prevent white streaks. Over time, the sun's rays can cause the outer layer of your camper's roof to oxidize, leading to white streaks. By applying an acrylic coating, you can create a protective barrier that shields the roof from the elements and helps maintain its appearance. This coating should be applied after thoroughly cleaning and scrubbing the roof to ensure that any existing dirt, oxidation, or residue is removed.

To clean the roof, use a specialised rubber roof cleaner or a mild soap and water solution. You can also use a brush or a soft-bristled broom to scrub the surface gently. It is important to avoid using abrasive cleaners, citric cleansers, or products containing petroleum distillate, as these can damage the roof. Always be cautious when working on top of your camper and consider hiring a professional if you are uncomfortable with heights or balancing on a ladder.

Once the roof is clean and dry, you can apply the acrylic coating. This coating will not only help prevent white streaks but also provide a protective layer that can extend the lifespan of your camper's roof. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper application techniques and safety precautions.

By combining the use of gutters and an acrylic coating, you can effectively prevent white streaks on your camper, keeping it looking clean and well-maintained.

Clean your AC drain pipes

To clean your AC drain pipes and prevent black streaks on your camper, follow these steps:

First, turn off your air conditioner and locate the condensate drain line. This is usually a PVC pipe located outside your house, near the outdoor unit. Follow the pipe to find the drain pan at the end of the line. Use dry rags to remove excess water from the pan. If there is mould or bacteria in the pan, clean it with soap and water.

Next, find the access point to the drain line, which is typically a T-shaped vent with a cap or cover. Remove the cap and inspect the interior for any blockages. If there are large chunks of debris, put on some gloves and remove them manually or use a wire brush to break them up.

Now, it's time to flush the drain line with a cleaning agent. You can use distilled vinegar, which is a powerful acid that kills bacteria and breaks down debris. Pour about 1/4 cup of vinegar down the drain line and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. If there are stubborn clogs or foul smells, let the vinegar sit for a few hours. Then, flush the drain line with water. If the water doesn't drain properly, repeat the process and let the vinegar sit for longer.

You can also use peroxide, hot water and dish soap, or a water hose with enough pressure to clear a small clog. However, for more complicated clogs, vinegar or bleach are more effective.

To prevent future clogs, pour a cup of bleach down the drain line at the start of every spring to eliminate algae and mould. Additionally, invest in high-quality HVAC filters to trap debris and change them regularly, at least once every three months.

Try a pressure washer

If you have white streaks on your camper, it's likely that they are caused by something on the roof providing that residue. This could be due to the paint oxidizing or simply a build-up of dirt. To remove these white streaks, you can try using a pressure washer.

A pressure washer is a powerful tool that uses a high-pressure stream of water to clean surfaces. It is an effective way to remove dirt, grime, and stains from a variety of materials, including the exterior of your camper. Here are some tips on how to use a pressure washer to get rid of those unsightly white streaks:

• Prepare your pressure washer: Ensure that you have a suitable pressure washer for the job. It should have adjustable settings so you can control the water pressure and spray pattern. Familiarize yourself with the machine's instructions and safety guidelines before starting.
• Choose the right nozzle: Your pressure washer may come with several nozzles that produce different spray patterns. For cleaning white streaks on your camper, a wide-angle nozzle (usually around 40 degrees) is a good choice. This will provide a strong, even spray without being too concentrated, which could potentially damage the surface of your camper.
• Adjust the pressure: Start with a lower pressure setting and test it on an inconspicuous area of your camper. Gradually increase the pressure until you find a setting that effectively removes the white streaks without damaging the surface.
• Apply detergent: If your pressure washer has a detergent tank, fill it with a suitable cleaning solution. There are specialized RV cleaning detergents available, or you can use a mild soap or detergent. The detergent will help loosen and lift the dirt and grime, making it easier to wash away.
• Start washing: Begin by standing a few feet away from the camper and spraying the sides with the detergent. Let the detergent sit for a few minutes to allow it to work on the dirt and stains. Then, starting from the top of the camper, systematically work your way down, using long, even strokes with the pressure washer. Keep the nozzle in constant motion to avoid concentrating the spray in one area for too long.
• Rinse and dry: Once you have covered all the affected areas, switch to a plain water spray to rinse away any remaining detergent. Ensure that all surfaces are thoroughly rinsed, as detergent residue can attract dirt and leave streaks. Finally, use a soft, clean cloth or towel to dry the camper, or let it air dry.

Using a pressure washer can be an effective way to remove white streaks from your camper. Just be sure to follow the safety instructions and adjust the pressure and spray pattern accordingly to avoid any potential damage to your camper's exterior.

Frequently asked questions