The complete guide to washing your motorhome or caravan in New Zealand, New Zealand

If you're searching for the best way to wash your motorhome or caravan in New Zealand, especially if you're based in Northland, you’re in the right place. This easy, step-by-step guide shares exactly how to clean your vehicle safely and effectively, including the tools we recommend, the techniques we trust, and the protective products we use to get a lasting, radiant finish.

We’ve owned our own motorhome for years, and this year switched to a 9 meter bus. Setting out on an adventure makes us a WHOLE LOTTA HAPPY. And even more so when the inside and outside are nice and clean.

We use it regularly often towing a boat behind and packing it with two teens, a tween, and their friends. So we know exactly how quickly grime builds up and how much better it feels to head out on the road with a motorhome that’s clean, shiny, and fresh inside and out.

This guide is based on real-world experience. You’ll find clear advice, practical tips, and the methods we’ve refined over countless washes. If you’d rather skip the DIY and get someone else do it for you, we can help with that too.

Want a professional clean without the hassle?
Get your custom quote today and we’ll take care of the grime so you can get back to the good part - adventuring.

Dirt, mould, and grime are shaking in their boots because you’re here, learning the best way to eliminate them and get your moterhome or caravan sparklt clean.

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 Table of contents

Step 1: Gather the right cleaning tools

Step 2: Wash in sections using the right techniques

Step 3: Protect with a ceramic coating

FAQ:   Answering your top motorhome cleaning questions

How often should I wash my motorhome or caravan?

Is it safe to pressure wash my motorhome or caravan?

What are the best products for cleaning a motorhome?

What does it cost to have your motorhome washed?

How to wash a motorhome or caravan in 3 easy steps

Step 1: Gather the right cleaning tools and supplies

Having the right gear makes all the difference. These are the tools we trust after years of washing our own motorhome:

You will find more information on the above tools below in the FAQ section under the heading "The best products for motorhome cleaning"

Quick tip: On the road and need a quick refresh? Use a waterless wash spray for touch-ups between big cleans.

Step 2: Wash in sections using the right technique

Working in sections helps prevent streaks and soap stains. Here’s our go-to approach:

• Remove bugs – Bug splatter can be stubborn. Apply a bug remover, let it sit, and then gently wipe it away.
• Start with the roof – Use the platform ladder and soft brush to remove dirt and grime from the roof and solar panels.
• Move on to the sides – Apply your foaming cleaner section by section. Let it dwell for a minute before gently scrubbing with your long-handled soft brush.
• Clean the windows and mirrors – Loosen dirt with the window brush, then finish with a squeegee for a spotless result.
• Do the wheels and tyres last – Use a dedicated tyre cleaner and brush. Finish with a tyre dressing to prevent cracking and keep them looking sharp.

Don’t skip the extras:
Your awning collects a surprising amount of mould and dirt, especially in damp or humid climates. Give it a clean every six months, and treat it once or twice a year.

• Use water and a soft brush for regular cleaning
• Choose an awning-safe cleaner for stains—never use household detergents
• Let the fabric dry completely before rolling it back up

Other often-missed areas worth a clean: vents, exterior storage compartments, and lights.

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Step 3: Protect your finish with a ceramic coating

After the wash, apply a hydro-ceramic coating to the roof, sides, front, and back. It adds a protective layer that resists UV rays, dirt, grime, and harsh weather.

• If you have a water blaster, attach the ceramic applicator to your gun
• No water blaster? Use a foamer attachment connected to your hose

Ceramic coatings take the hard work out of future washes and keep your motorhome looking cleaner, longer.

Finishing touches:

• Apply a tyre dressing to seal and protect the rubber
• Wipe down door seals to prevent dirt build-up
• Inspect decals and trims for any missed spots

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FAQ's

How often should you wash your motorhome?

As a rule of thumb, wash your vehicle once a month or after every major trip, especially if you've been near the ocean or on dusty roads.

Key areas to prioritise:

• Roof and solar panels – These should be cleaned monthly and treated once or twice a year to prevent black mould buildup.
• Bug splatter – Soften the area with water before wiping with a microfiber cloth. Avoid washing in direct sun.
• Awnings – Clean twice a year, more often in humid conditions. Apply a mould treatment when needed.
• Tyres – A regular clean and protective dressing keeps them from cracking or looking dull.

Quick tip:
After removing bug splatter, spray on a wax or sealant to protect the surface and make the next clean even easier. Some people also find used dryer sheets handy for gently removing bugs from glass.

Want a hassle-free clean? We offer professional motorhome and caravan washing services throughout Whangārei, One Tree Point, Kaipara, Kerikeri, and beyond the Bay Of Islands. Just ask us for a quote.

Want to make regular washes easier?

If you're in Whangārei, One Tree Point, Kaipara, Kerikeri, or anywhere in the Bay of Islands, we’d be happy to take care of your next clean for you.

Get a quote for your motorhome or caravan wash and we’ll send you a custom price based on a few quick details.

Outside these areas?
Still request a quote. If we have other work nearby, we’ll gladly look at fitting your caravan or campervan wash in too.

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Is it safe to pressure wash my motorhome or caravan?

It depends on your equipment and experience. High pressure can damage paintwork, seals, decals, or panels if used incorrectly.

That’s why we use soft washing, a low-pressure method that safely removes dirt and mould without harming surfaces. We pair that with:

• Soft brushes on long handles
• Microfiber cloths
• Foam cleaners that do the heavy lifting

If you’re not confident with water pressure settings or don’t have the right attachments, it’s best to skip pressure washing altogether.

What are the best products for cleaning a motorhome?

Here’s the gear we use and recommend:

• Platform ladder – Makes roof cleaning safe, stable, and effective
• Foamer (foam cannon) – Ensures even, clingy coverage with less product
• Soft-bristle brush on a long handle – Lets you reach all areas without stretching or leaning dangerously
• Window brush and squeegee – Speeds up the process and eliminates streaks
• Biodegradable, alkaline cleaner – Cuts through grime without damaging surfaces or harming the environment
• Hydro-ceramic wax – Gives a long-lasting, water-repelling shine with zero elbow grease

Need help sourcing the right gear? Contact us and we’ll happily point you in the right direction—or do the wash for you.

Need help? If you’re looking for expert cleaning or just need advice on maintaining your vehicle, get in touch—we’re always happy to help!

What does it cost to have your motorhome washed?

A full exterior motorhome wash starts at $180 + GST and increases depending on complexity.

The price varies based on the size and height of your vehicle. Larger motorhomes with over-cab sleeping areas or extended slide-outs require more time, more product, and more water. Heavily soiled vehicles or those exposed to coastal salt, long-term storage, or tree sap may also need additional care.

Every wash Blast Away Guys does includes a ceramic coating. This isn't an optional extra. It's part of what sets the service apart. You get a clean, glossy, protected finish that repels dirt, speeds up future washes, and keeps your motorhome looking adventure-ready for longer.

If your awning has picked up mould or your roof has signs of lichen or black streaking, you can add an awning treatment or a roof treatment. These extras help protect against regrowth and prolong the life of your surfaces.

You’ll know exactly what to expect before you book. A quick photo or two and your location are all we need to provide a tailored quote. Just send them through and we’ll walk you through the options—no pressure, just helpful advice.

Bonus tip: Many regulars book a combined roof treatment and exterior wash to keep costs down and their motorhome protected between full cleans.

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Want to see what a radiant motorhome costs?

Get a quote that matches your vehicle, your lifestyle, and your next adventure.

Get your custom motorhome quote

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Here’s to a clean, adventure-ready motorhome

For us, it’s more than just a vehicle. It’s our escape, our adventure hub, and sometimes a rolling base camp for fishing or boating. It holds the memories of road trips, late-night card games, and long weekends where the only plan was to chase the sun.

Keeping it clean helps protect your investment, but it also just feels good. A spotless motorhome sets the tone for the trip ahead. It tells you you’re ready to roll.

Whether you’re a proud DIYer or want someone else to handle the mess, we’re here to help.

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Want a clean and sparkly motorhome or caravan without the hassle of doing it yourself? Get a quote