Camco Pro-Strength Awning Cleaner (41024) is the top pick for most buyers because its purpose-built formula tackles common RV awning dirt without requiring a homemade mix. For shoppers comparing the best homemade rv awning cleaner options, this ready-made spray offers predictable use and less measuring, which makes routine awning care simpler.
This guide is for RV owners who need to remove road film, mildew, stains, or dusty buildup from an awning. The key factors are material compatibility, cleaning coverage, and how well each option handles the type of grime on your RV. Check whether a cleaner suits vinyl or acrylic fabric before applying it. The seven picks below are ranked with clear reasons and honest drawbacks for each, so you can choose a cleaner that fits your awning and maintenance routine.
Quick Comparison
| # | Product | Best For | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Camco Pro-Strength Awning Cleaner (41024) | Removing Heavy Awning Grime | ~$8 | View → |
| 2 | STAR BRITE RV Awning Cleaner Spray | Quick Spray-On RV Cleaning | ~$17 | View → |
| 3 | Walex RV Awning Cleaner | Routine Vinyl Awning Maintenance | ~$18 | View → |
| 4 | Camco 41028 Awning Cleaner | Treating Stubborn Outdoor Stains | ~$23 | View → |
| 5 | RV Awning Cleaner Spray, 3-Piece Set | Multi-Bottle RV Cleaning Kits | ~$19 | View → |
| 6 | MSRXUP RV Awning Cleaner | Budget-Friendly Awning Care | ~$9 | View → |
| 7 | Dicor CP-AC-1GL RV Awning Cleaner | Large-Rig Awning Cleaning Jobs | ~$24 | View → |
7 DIY RV Awning Cleaners Worth Considering
This list is ranked by cleaning strength, material safety, cost, and ease of mixing, counting down to the top pick.
7. Dicor CP-AC-1GL RV Awning Cleaner
Best for: Removing heavy stains from RV awnings
Dicor CP-AC-1GL is a one-gallon cleaner made for RV awnings. It targets marks from leaves, bird droppings, tree sap, and other outdoor grime. The large container suits owners cleaning a full-size awning or maintaining more than one rig. At around $24, it costs less than many smaller specialty cleaners, though prices vary by seller.
Its main strength is material coverage. The formula is designed for fabric, vinyl, and acrylic awnings, so buyers do not need a separate product for each common awning type. It also aims to cut through stubborn dirt with minimal scrubbing, which can shorten cleanup time when an awning has sat under trees or collected bird mess. The listing does not state a dilution ratio, coverage area, or exact cleaning time, so buyers should follow the package directions rather than estimate how much one gallon will handle.
Pros
- One-gallon size provides a substantial supply for repeated awning cleanups.
- Works with fabric, vinyl, and acrylic awning materials.
- Targets tree sap, bird droppings, leaves, and other stubborn stains with less scrubbing.
Cons
- The gallon container takes more storage space than a small spray bottle.
- No coverage estimate, dilution guidance, or exact cleaning time is provided in the listed details.
6. MSRXUP RV Awning Cleaner
Best for: Spot-cleaning washable RV awnings
The MSRXUP Powerful RV Awning Cleaner is a targeted spray for routine care of RV canopies. It is intended to loosen visible dirt, dark marks, road grime, and weather residue on compatible washable surfaces. The spray format suits small problem areas better than mixing a full bucket of cleaner. Aim it at the buildup, then wipe the loosened soil with the included cleaning towel.
Use it on compatible vinyl, synthetic canopy material, and similar washable fabrics only after testing a hidden patch for colorfastness and material compatibility. The basic routine is simple: remove loose debris, spray the affected section, gently wipe it clean, and let the awning dry fully before folding or storing it. At around $9, it is a low-cost option for seasonal preparation or regular maintenance. Still, the listing does not state a bottle size, coverage area, ingredient list, or specific dwell time. That makes it harder to estimate how many cleanings one container will provide.
Pros
- Direct spray application targets isolated stains without preparing a bucket of solution.
- Included cleaning towel provides a ready cloth for wiping treated sections.
- Suitable for vinyl, synthetic canopies, and similar washable fabrics after a hidden-area test.
Cons
- It is not confirmed safe for every awning material, so compatibility testing is required.
- The product details do not list container size or coverage, limiting value comparisons.
5. RV Awning Cleaner Spray, 3-Piece Set
Best for: Routine RV awning cleanup between trips
This three-piece RV awning cleaner set is made for routine care after camping, travel, and extended outdoor storage. The spray targets everyday dust, dirt, stains, and outdoor residue on compatible RV awnings, camper canopies, and other exterior fabric surfaces. It is intended for suitable vinyl and synthetic materials, so buyers should confirm their awning’s care instructions before use. The price is around $19, though it can change.
The spray-and-clean format is the main convenience. Apply it to the surface, let it work according to the label directions, then wipe or rinse as appropriate. That process can make regular awning maintenance easier than mixing a separate cleaner. The three-piece package also gives you more than a single bottle, although the listing does not state the amount in each bottle or the total coverage. This cleaner is best viewed as a maintenance product for common outdoor buildup, not a guaranteed solution for deep stains, mold, or heavily weathered fabric. Use it on approved surfaces only, and avoid assuming it fits every awning material.
Pros
- Designed for RV awnings, camper canopies, vinyl, and synthetic outdoor surfaces.
- Spray application supports a simple apply, wait, wipe, or rinse routine.
- Three-piece package provides multiple bottles for ongoing cleaning supplies.
Cons
- The listing does not provide bottle size, coverage estimates, or a clear number of uses.
- Material compatibility is limited, so it may not suit every fabric, coating, or awning finish.
4. Camco 41028 Awning Cleaner
Best for: RV owners cleaning fabric awnings
Camco 41028 Pro-Strength Awning Cleaner comes in a 1-gallon container for larger cleaning jobs around an RV, camper, or patio awning. Its formula targets mold and mildew stains, everyday dirt, tree sap, and road grime. That mix makes it more useful than a cleaner aimed only at light dust or surface marks. The price is usually around $23, though store pricing can change.
The main draw is its broad fabric compatibility. Camco lists it as safe for all awning fabrics, so owners do not need a separate cleaner for different awning materials. Its industrial-strength formula may suit fabric that has picked up sticky sap, dark mildew marks, or traffic film during travel. Still, results can vary with stain age and fabric condition. Set-in discoloration may need repeated cleaning, and the product cannot repair sun damage, tears, or fabric wear.
Pros
- Targets mold and mildew stains, which can darken awning fabric.
- Breaks down tree sap and road grime from outdoor exposure.
- One-gallon size provides plenty of cleaner for full-size awnings and repeat use.
Cons
- The gallon container takes more storage space than a small spot cleaner.
- It removes surface stains and grime, but it cannot fix faded, torn, or weakened fabric.
3. Walex RV Awning Cleaner
Best for: RV owners cleaning vinyl awnings
Walex RV Awning Cleaner is a 64-ounce liquid cleaner for vinyl and fabric awnings on RVs, campers, trailers, and motorhomes. It targets everyday buildup such as dirt, grime, mold, mildew, bird droppings, and tree sap. The formula is designed to clean the awning material without damaging it, while regular care may help preserve its appearance and extend its usable life.
The main advantage is its broad cleaning range. Many awnings collect several types of mess at once, especially after storage or time spent under trees. This product addresses those common stains with one dedicated cleaner instead of separate products. Walex also sells 32-ounce, 64-ounce, and 1-gallon sizes. The 64-ounce bottle offers a practical middle option for owners who clean more than once but do not need bulk storage. At around $18, it costs less upfront than the gallon size, though the final value depends on how much cleaner each wash requires.
Pros
- Safe for both vinyl and fabric awnings.
- Designed to break down sap, bird droppings, mold, mildew, and dirt.
- Three size options support occasional or frequent cleaning.
Cons
- Heavy buildup may still require scrubbing and rinsing.
- The 64-ounce bottle may not last long for large awnings or repeated seasonal cleanings.
2. STAR BRITE RV Awning Cleaner Spray
Best for: RV owners cleaning fabric awnings
STAR BRITE RV Awning Cleaner & Protectant Spray is made for RV awnings constructed from fabric or vinyl. It targets common outdoor messes, including leaf marks, bird droppings, and bug residue. The spray also works on outdoor furniture cushions, so one bottle can cover more than the RV exterior. Its concentrated formula is designed to spread farther than a ready-to-use cleaner, though the listing does not provide a coverage estimate or bottle size.
The main draw is its simple spray, wait, and wipe routine. It is designed to loosen dirt without heavy scrubbing, which may help reduce wear on awning material. Special polymers leave a UV-resistant barrier that helps slow fading and surface damage, but this does not replace retracting the awning during harsh weather. The formula is designed to avoid discoloration and dries quickly after cleaning. At around $17, it fits a reasonable price range for a dedicated fabric cleaner. STAR BRITE has made marine, auto, RV, home, and outdoor products since 1973.
Pros
- Cleans fabric and vinyl awnings without heavy scrubbing.
- Adds UV protection to help limit fading.
- Works on outdoor cushions as well as awnings.
Cons
- No stated bottle size or coverage rate makes value hard to judge.
- Set-in stains may need a second application or manual cleaning.
1. Camco Pro-Strength Awning Cleaner (41024)
Best for: RV owners cleaning outdoor awnings
Camco Pro-Strength Awning Cleaner is a 32 fl oz solution for removing common outdoor buildup from RV awnings. Its formula targets dirt, stains, tree sap, and road grime on vinyl, acrylic, nylon, and fabric surfaces. That broad material coverage makes it useful for full-size RVs, pop-ups, and tents. It is designed for routine cleaning rather than a single-purpose spot treatment.
The main advantage is versatility. One bottle can handle several awning materials, including fabrics that may need gentler care than vinyl. The cleaner also aims to refresh faded or weathered surfaces, helping an older awning look cleaner before a camping trip. The 32 fl oz bottle should provide enough product for a full awning and possibly more than one cleaning session, depending on coverage and soil level. At around $8, it is a low-cost option for seasonal maintenance. Still, the result will depend on how long stains have set and how much buildup the awning has collected.
Pros
- Works on vinyl, acrylic, nylon, and fabric awnings.
- Targets tree sap, road grime, stains, and everyday dirt.
- A 32 fl oz bottle can cover a full-size awning and multiple applications.
Cons
- Deeply set stains or heavy weathering may require repeated cleaning.
- The 32 fl oz size may run out quickly when cleaning several large awnings.
Buying Guide
Material safety matters most when choosing a DIY awning wash because vinyl, acrylic, and coated fabric can react differently to cleaners. A mild formula can remove grime without stripping waterproofing or leaving brittle spots.
- Awning material: Check the fabric label first. Use pH-neutral soap, about pH 6-8, on acrylic or coated fabric. Avoid bleach and strong solvents unless the manufacturer approves them.
- Cleaning strength: Start with 1 tablespoon of mild dish soap in 1 gallon of lukewarm water. Increase the concentration only after testing a hidden 2-inch area.
- Stain type: Match the mix to the mess. Add 1 cup of white vinegar per gallon for mildew odor, but never mix vinegar with bleach. Use a soft brush for bird droppings.
- Application method: Choose a 6- to 10-inch soft-bristle brush or microfiber mop. Keep the awning wet for 5-10 minutes, then rinse from the top down.
- Storage and cost: Mix only what you need for one cleaning, usually 1-2 gallons. Store ingredients in labeled containers, and discard diluted solution after 24 hours.
If you must compromise, prioritize material safety over stronger stain removal.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make a homemade RV awning cleaner?
Make an RV awning cleaner with one gallon of warm water, two tablespoons of mild dish soap, and one cup of white vinegar. Stir it in a bucket, then apply with a soft brush instead of a pressure washer. Rinse after 10 minutes, and keep the solution away from aluminum hardware and sealed seams.
What homemade solution is safe for RV awnings?
A diluted dish-soap solution is usually the safest homemade option for most RV awning materials. Mix two tablespoons of mild soap with one gallon of warm water, then test it on a hidden area first. Avoid laundry detergent, harsh degreasers, and chlorine bleach, which can damage fabric coatings or leave faded spots.
Can I use vinegar to clean an RV awning?
You can use diluted white vinegar for light mildew and mineral marks on some RV awnings, but rinse the material thoroughly afterward. Combine one cup of vinegar with one gallon of water, apply it for no more than 10 minutes, and avoid using it on unknown coatings without a small spot test.
Are vinegar and dish soap good for cleaning RV awnings?
Vinegar and dish soap can clean light dirt from many RV awnings, but they may not remove heavy stains or embedded mildew. Use two tablespoons of mild soap and one cup of vinegar per gallon of water, scrub gently, and rinse with a garden hose after about 10 minutes.
Conclusion
Camco Pro-Strength Awning Cleaner (41024) is the top recommendation for RV owners who want a purpose-made cleaner with clear directions and less mixing. If your priority is the lowest cost and you only need light cleaning, pick a mild dish-soap-and-water mixture instead, since common household supplies can handle fresh dust and surface grime. Before buying, double-check the container size, compatibility with your awning’s fabric or vinyl, the quantity included, and the current price. A homemade solution can work well for routine touch-ups, but tougher stains may require more time and repeated applications. Whichever route you choose, rinse thoroughly and let the awning dry before rolling it back in.
