Best RV Wax For Fiberglass, Gel Coat, Aluminum Siding, Decals & UV Protection

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Want to maximize the resale value of your precious RV? While an RV is a substantial investment, it is highly prone to damages from being exposed to the harsh outdoor elements. You’ll notice in no time that the new RV glow has faded; your precious RV is starting to look dull and older than it is. Regular waxing with the best RV wax will keep your investment looking new and shiny, therefore maximizing its resale value. 

With the help of a high quality wax, you can protect most parts of your RV from scratches and weather damages. A good RV wax with UV protection can even help in protecting your RV from the damaging effects of direct sunlights when you’re on RV camping trips.

While the market for this category is saturated with so many options that can overwhelm you, we’ve done the hard work and handpicked a list of the very best RV wax products on the market, each with an in-depth review, to save you a lot of time browsing.

Also included in this review are everything you should know when shopping for the best RV wax for your precious vehicle: benefits and types of RV waxes, important buying factors, plus some of the most frequently asked questions when using this maintenance product. 

Now that you’re all set, let’s wax away!

Quick Recommendations For The Best RV Waxes

  • BEST OVERALL RV WAX: Turtle Wax T-477R
  • BEST VALUE: CorrosionX 61002
  • Best RV WAX FOR ALUMINUM SIDING: Nu-Finish Liquid Polish
  • BEST RV WAX FOR FIBERGLASS: Protect All 62016
  • BEST RV WASH AND WAX: Gel-Gloss WW-128
  • BEST WAX FOR GELCOAT RV: Meguiar’s M5016
  • BEST RV WAX WITH UV PROTECTION: 303 UV Protectant
  • BEST SPRAY WAX FOR RV: Turtle Wax T-477R
 Product's namePriceKey FeaturesMore Info
Turtle Wax T-477R ICE Spray Wax - 20 oz. , WhiteTurtle Wax T-477R ICE Spray Wax - 20 oz. , White$$$$All-season
RV spray wax
Wash and dry
See Latest Price
Corrosion Technologies RejeX 61002 (16 fl oz) – High Gloss Finish That Protects | For All Vehicles...Corrosion Technologies RejeX 61002 (16 fl oz) – High Gloss Finish That...$$$$Polymer
Non-stick
High-release
See Latest Price
Car Polish by Nu Finish, NF-76 Liquid Polish for Cars, Trucks, 16 Fl Oz EachCar Polish by Nu Finish, NF-76 Liquid Polish for Cars, Trucks, 16 Fl Oz...$$$$High-gloss shine
Non-abrasive
Wax-free formula
See Latest Price
Protect All 62016 All-Surface Care Cleaner, Wax, Polisher and Protector - Interior and exterior use,...Protect All 62016 All-Surface Care Cleaner, Wax, Polisher and Protector -...$$$$5-in-1 formula
No residue
Non-oily
See Latest Price
Gel-Gloss RV Wash and Wax - 128 oz. - WW-128Gel-Gloss RV Wash and Wax - 128 oz. - WW-128$$$$Biodegradable
2-in-1 (wash and wax)
Plastic bottle
See Latest Price
Meguiar's M5016 Marine/RV One Step Cleaner Wax, 16 fl ozMeguiar's M5016 Marine/RV One Step Cleaner Wax, 16 fl oz$$$$Eliminate scratches, swirls, hazes,…
Non-abrasive formula
One-step application
See Latest Price
303 Aerospace Protectant - Provides Superior UV Protection, Helps Prevent Fading and Cracking,...303 Aerospace Protectant - Provides Superior UV Protection, Helps Prevent...$$$$Non-toxic
Water-based
Rinse-free formula
See Latest Price
Meguiar’s M5616 Marine/RV Pure Wax Carnauba Blend, 16 Fluid OuncesMeguiar’s M5616 Marine/RV Pure Wax Carnauba Blend, 16 Fluid Ounces$$$$Long-lasting protection
Extraordinary gloss
Hand and machine application
See Latest Price
3M Marine Restorer and Wax, 32 oz3M Marine Restorer and Wax, 32 oz$$$$One-step application
Restore shine and color
Water and UV rays protection
See Latest Price
Meguiar's M5032 Marine/RV One Step Cleaner Wax, 32 fl ozMeguiar's M5032 Marine/RV One Step Cleaner Wax, 32 fl oz$$$$Non-abrasive
Restore gloss and color
Address light defects
See Latest Price

Basics of RV Exterior Materials

RV’s come in a wide range of configurations with regard to exterior materials and surfaces. The following are the most common materials on the RV market today:

Fiberglass/Gelcoat

These are the most common type of RV exterior. They start at entry level pricing and continue towards the higher-end RV with full paint.

Fiberglass refers to the fiberglass cloth used to reinforce the substrate, and resin is applied to the cloth to form a hard material, then on top is a finishing coat made of gelcoat.

  • Colour: Mostly white; sometimes cream.
  • Usually have some form of decal striping or decoration.
  • May also have limited use of paint such as the bottom half of the RV or stripes applied with paint.
  • Fiberglass/Gelcoat becomes hazy, uneven, and chalky over time.

Notes on cleaning:

  • Any form of car wax, RV wax, or marine wax can be used on the bottom painted section.
  • To get rid of oxidation on the surface: you will need RV wax with either chemical cleaners or abrasive cleaners that have the ability to remove the oxidation. You can either remove the oxidation first with a cleaner, or you can use an RV cleaner wax to do both cleaning and waxing steps in one.

Corrugated Fiberglass

  • These RVs come with rib texture instead of smooth surfaces.
  • These are the cheapest entry level RVs, toy haulers, or trailers.
  • Colour: usually white, with many vinyl decal stripes and lettering.

Fully Painted

  • These RVs have full 2-stage paint just like car paint: a base color coat with a top clear coat.
  • These are the easiest to wash, wax, and detail.
  • These are the most expensive, which is why they are far less common than the other types of RVs.

Bare/Coated Aluminum

  • These are rare and nowadays only represent the Air Stream line-up of trailers.
  • Older models are bare aluminum and can be polished. All new models have a clear-coat applied over the aluminum and can be maintained like any car paint.

Why You Should Use an RV Wax?

Just like washing and waxing your car, waxing your RV is important. We all know that nothing can escape the damaging effect of time and the harsh outdoor elements. In order to protect your investment, you want to take care of it and keep it looking its best, and regular waxing is the best way to do that. 

After years in service and weathering trips after trips, you will start to notice the same thing that happens to your family car, albeit with a vehicle as large as an RV, the effect is much more noticeable. 

The exterior has lost its shine, the paint job is dull and faded from the hours standing under the sun, then stains, scratches and even chipping here and there from tree branches, and quick buildup of dirt and grime right after a thorough wash.

Waxing your RV should be thought of as essential maintenance best performed twice a year to keep the exterior of your vehicle in good shape. Not only does it keep the surface looking shiny and new, it will also create a protective layer that will serve to reduce the impact of dirt and grime, moisture, and direct sunlight on your rig’s exterior. 

best rv wax for fiberglass
RV waxes help keep RV exterior look new & protect it from outdoor elements.

This protective barrier can make it harder for dirt and dust to accumulate, protect from fading, deterioration and discoloration, help prevent staining and sometimes chipping. Some offer a water repellent coating that resist water.

For the less experienced RV owners, the quest for the best RV wax will start among traditional car wash and wax products. However, you must get specialized products specifically made for RVs and boats due to the fact that RV’s and boats are made of fiberglass and gel coat, not regular car paint.

To get the most suitable wax for your particular RV model or type, first you need to grasp the basics of RV exterior materials in order to grab the best RV wax.


Types Of RV Waxes

Major Ingredients

1. Carnauba wax and other natural waxes/oils

Carnauba wax is a vegetable wax obtained from the leaves of a Brazilian palm tree, which serves to coat its leaves and shield them from the intense tropical sun. Carnauba wax is the hardest natural wax known to man, and is harder than beeswax.

It is extremely durable, repels water and dries to a glossy finish. Due to these characteristics, Carnauba wax is used in automobile waxes, shoe polishes, floor and furniture polishes and cosmetics.

Carnauba wax is one of the main ingredients of many car and RV waxes due to its top performance in polishing many types of surfaces. They can also offer water repellent coating that resist water and protect the RV surface from degradation.

Even though paint sealants have numerous benefits, they will never surpass a premium carnauba wax for shine and warmth. However, Carnauba based waxes must be reapplied frequently in order to maintain shine.

A more naturally derived car wax formula usually consists of a blend of carnauba wax, mixed with other natural waxes, such as beeswax, and natural oils. Beeswax is a durable wax found in honeycombs used for protection, while natural oils, such as linseed oil, are emollients used to provide added shine, luster, and protection.

Compared to synthetic wax ingredients, natural waxes and oils are less durable and less resistant to dirt and grime.

These natural ingredients tend to be sticky, with a low melting point, so they tend to attract dust to the paint surface and must be reapplied every one to three months in order to maintain protection and shine.

2. Polymers and resins 

Many newer formulations also contain special polymers and resins which are used as both automotive wax hardener and shine enhancer. Resins and polymers are plastic like substances that adhere to the paint surface offering longer lasting protection than the natural waxes mentioned above. However, they also tend to provide less shine. Polymers and resins are now commonly found in auto paint sealants and waxes.

3. Petroleum distillates

Among the ingredients for waxes used in various industries, petroleum distillates are the cheapest. They are solvents derived from crude oil that make the wax easier to spread and to clean the surface. However, they can leave a greasy residue.

Be cautious when applying any wax or protectant containing petroleum distillates. Low grade distillates can deteriorate the gel coat finish causing the paint to oxidize with time. Premium car, RV and boat waxes usually do not contain petroleum distillates.

Packaging

Just like car waxes, RV waxes are available in three forms: spray-on, liquid and paste.

1. Spray-on Waxes

The least common type of wax for RV use, spray-on waxes are generally the most convenient to apply. It allows you to spray with one hand and with the other hand, wipe with polishers or hand pads on the wax-covered surfaces to clean and polish. 

Since bottle sizes tend to be small, and the spray-on action leads to a lot of oversprays and wasted wax, they aren’t the most economical when it comes to waxing an RV. In other words, expect to buy a few extra bottles of spray if you want to use this type of wax.

Due to the nature of spray-on waxes, they are more common for passenger cars instead of RVs. Sometimes, owners of new RVs with minimal blemishes opt for these small-sized spray bottles to try out a brand, which might make sense considering that their new RVs do not require a lot of work.

2. Liquid Waxes

Liquid waxes make up the bulk of most RV fiberglass waxes. These products typically come in a 32-ounce or 1-gallon capacity. The size options allow you to choose based on your preferences.

They also tend to respond well to both hand and power application, making this type extremely versatile in matching your personal preferences on waxing your RV.

In case you plan to wax your recreational vehicle on an occasional basis, it’s fine for you to settle for low-capacity units. On the other hand, if you have a big RV and travel throughout the year, you should pick up high- capacity varieties so you don’t run out of wax in the middle of applications.

3. Paste Waxes

Pastes, especially carnauba waxes, are harder and can be more difficult to apply by hand. For RV use, they are less common but remain a good choice if you prefer to avoid liquid and spray-on solutions.


In-Depth Reviews Of Top-Rated Waxes For RV

With the above critical buying factors in mind, we’ve done the hard job of browsing different offerings in the market and checking their reviews to handpick the absolute best RV wax products that will give you the best value for your money. 

Whatever your travel needs and priorities might be, there is something for every RVer in this list. While each and every RV wax below offers a balance of the important buying criteria, they make a good mix of different features and strengths to cater for different needs.

1. Turtle Wax T-477R ICE RV Wax – Best Overall

Why This The Best:

Made to work well on a wide range of surfaces, Turtle Wax T-477R ICE would work magic in a variety of RV settings. From rubber trims to exterior plastics, T-477R ICE offers comprehensive all-around protection to any material. 

Besides recreational vehicles, this Turtle Wax also performs admirably on other applications like motorcycles, boats and more. Naturally, most RVers who desire a fuss-free one-for-all wax would consider Turtle Wax T-477R ICE to be the best RV wax available for purchase.

Regarding applications, the sprayer design of T-477R ICE allows you to apply the wax with ease. The exterior of your RV would boast a mirror-like finish at the end of the day. In addition to aesthetic benefits, Turtle Wax effectively addresses fading by offering protection from the damaging UV rays.

As for longevity, Turtle Wax incorporates anti-static properties into T-477R ICE which make it last for a long time, so rest assured that you wouldn’t need to reapply the whole rig again very soon.

This is the best spray wax available today!

I’ve tried many different spray waxes including Meguiar’s Gold Class Carnauba Plus Premium Quik Wax, California Gold Spray Wax, and Optimum spray Car Wax. The only one remaining to try is Chemical Guys.

Turtle Wax Ice Spray Wax gives the deepest shine out of ALL of these spray waxes and has less static charge to attract dust. There are no if and buts about it. The results can best be seen on vehicles that are dark or have metallic paint and is the same as using pure carnuba paste or liquid wax buffed on. This stuff does not discolor or build up on any plastic or vinyl trim and works on glass very well too.

Shared RG

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Straightforward application
  • Top-notch RV protection

Cons

  • Tends to spread unevenly the first time
  • RVers complain about blocked streams

2. CorrosionX 61002 Rejex RV Wax – Best Value

Why It’s The Best Value:

As a thin-film polymer coating, CorrosionX 61002 Rejex provides a rugged, long-lasting barrier that minimizes the impacts of outdoor elements on your rig’s exterior. The CorrosionX wax also tackles a series of common contaminants on the road including bird droppings, tree saps, and brake dust. 

Thanks to such reliable protection, 61002 Rejex often stands out from competitors as the best RV wax for full-time RV travels. Since it also comes with a reasonable price tag, it is understandable that the wax is consistently among the best selling RV waxes these days.

Available in a 16-ounce bottle, CorrosionX wax can easily last through the waxing of a sizable RV. If you want to use it on other smaller vehicles, 61002 Rejex should be able to handle a few projects. Thanks to the fact that the polymer coating could be applied to a variety of surfaces, applications would be a breeze in most cases. Aside from constructing a deep, lustrous shine on the finish, CorrosionX 61002 Rejex prevents oxidation, which would significantly boost the longevity of the protective wax layer.One major plus of CorrosionX 61002 Rejex is that it causes zero glares on RV headlights. As a result, the CorrosionX wax is deemed the best RV wax for RVers that must travel in low-light conditions from time to time.

This went on extremely easy, goes a LONG way

Just used on our Class C RV. We do not have the full body paint and wanted something to protect the gel coated side walls and vinyl graphics from the southwest sun. This went on extremely easy, goes a LONG way, and one of the best things to note….with traditional wax, if you leave it on too long it’s really difficult to get off. With this Rejex, we took a break for about 45 minutes and when we started wiping with our micro fiber cloth it wasn’t too difficult at all to buff out.

We had quite a bit left in the bottle after finishing the whole 25′ class C including all the glass.

Very happy with the application, the shine it put on, and the water shedding properties so far. I will update this review once we see how well the bugs come off which is why we tried this in the first place.

Shared by NMPharmer

Pros

  • Guard against road contaminants
  • Retards oxidation on the finish
  • Deep and lustrous shine

Cons

  • Slightly greasy
  • Vulnerable to fingerprints

3. Nu-Finish Once-A-Year Polish RV Wax – Editor’s Choice

Why It’s An Editor’s Choice:

You find that the usual waxes you’ve been using break down too soon? Hate to waste hours rubbing and buffing the waxes to bring out a glossy finish? If longevity and easy application are your top priorities, Nu-Finish Once-A-Year Polish would be the best RV wax for you. 

Using a wax-free formula, Nu-Finish’s polish liquid could be applied under direct sunlight without requiring tedious rubbing and buffing. Furthermore, the liquid is produced to work on multiple surfaces, only except for rubber and plastic, giving you fuss-free protection on your vehicles and machines.

While Nu-Finish Once-A-Year Polish is definitely adept at repelling elements, it also excels at addressing outdoor annoyances such as tree saps, road grimes, bird droppings and more. Featuring a network of crosslinked polymer emulsions, this Nu-Finish wax holds together many months on the road, which lives up to its name. 

On average, you only have to apply the polish liquid on your rig once a year to preserve its finish. If you travel often and on long trips at a time, you would need something that keeps your rig shiny for extended periods of time. Nu-Finish Once-A-Year Polish would be the absolute best RV wax.

As for post-purchase support, Nu-Finish offers generous terms. If Once-A-Year Polish fails to deliver satisfaction, the 30-day money-back guarantee would ensure a full refund. That speaks volumes about the quality and consistent performance of the product.

I used this on 3 sides of my travel trailer with the 4th needing a but more buffing. As long as the surface is shiny, this stuff works great to continue protecting your investment. Just as the bottle says, wipe it on and let it haze then wipe it off. That’s all I did in direct sunlight during the heat of the day and it looked perfect. I am really happy and so glad other rated it so highly so I would give it a try.

Shared by PB

Pros

  • Highly adaptable
  • Great values for the price
  • Excellent longevity

Cons

  • Emit unpleasant odors on occasions
  • Ill-suited for rubber and plastic

4. Protect All 62016 RV Wax

Why We Love It:

Formulated with premium-grade carnauba wax, Protect All 62016 could create a resilient and lustrous shine in the exterior as well as interior of recreational vehicles. Protect All 62016 should provide an anti-static and water-repellent finish, which definitely proves advantageous in lots of travel settings. Last but not least, unlike the average waxes for RV on the market, 62016 leaves virtually no white powder so you don’t have to worry about annoying residues.

Thanks to its non-abrasive nature, it’s perfectly safe to use the Protect All on delicate surfaces. If your rig happens to feature expensive paint coats on the exterior, Protect All 62016 would be the best RV wax for you. Since Protect All designs this 62016 to be a multipurpose product which does it all – wax, treat, polish, clean and protect, you won’t have to spend extra to get many products for different projects. If you need to deal with various issues on your RV’s exterior, 62016 is all you need.

Regarding usage, Protect All 62016 is accompanied by a convenient trigger sprayer. After spraying, use a clean piece of cloth to ensure equal distribution across the surfaces. Subsequently, wipe the finish dry using additional cloths.

I detail cars and RVs and am a big McGuires car product fan. But as far as a wax for RV Fiberglass this Protect-all has them all beat, plus it also has UV inhibitors to screen out harmful sun rays to your fiberglass finish. I started using this product 12 years ago on a new RV and used it a few times a year it goes on extremely easy and you don’t need very much at all and it comes off just as easy leaving as good a long lasting shine as one can expect. My travel trailer at the time looked new till I sold it 10 years later only using Protect-all I have used it on 2 other RVs I owned.

On this used motor home I recently bought I decided after compounding finish to try McGuires Flagship wax made for boats and RVs It had great reviews and at 1st I liked it, but in a short period of time I discovered the McGuires would hold the dirt from the water streaks from the roof. Despite my roof being as clean as new the sides using the McGuires would hold the dirt in streaks and not even a simple wash would remove them. I never had that problem using the Protect-all for the past 12 years.

I highly recommend McGuires products Meguiar’s Marine & RV Fiberglass Restoration Systemfor car and McGuires Fiberglass restorer which is the best compound to clean oxidation and dirt off RV finish ( I have extensive review on amazon on that product) But once you have it backdown to original finish nice and glossy again. I strictly use the protect-all a few times a year and its fast and easy to apply so its easy to give another coat. It will even wax and remove dirt and old waxes on plastic its the best leaves no white residue on anything, great on glass too. It wont even dirty up caulking on seams as most waxes can do, stuffs really that good on cars too. You can wax entire 30 ft RV in and hour using protect-all. If you start with a clean new surface this stuff will maintain that new look for as long as you use it a few times a year as it will lightly clean and apply a nice wax to you finish. Really really!If you can cover you RV with proper RV cover or keep in garage as I have been able to do makes your unit stay looking good and out of the sun.

Shared Ed D

Pros

  • Good price
  • Lots of functions
  • All-around protection

Cons

  • Inconsistent performance between products 
  • Less than ideal shipping service

5. Gel-Gloss RV Wash and Wax

Why We Love It

You have a rather big rig but would like to save on waxing? If that is the case, this Gel-Gloss RV Wash and Wax will be the best RV wax for you in terms of economy. Coming in a 1-gallon bottle, this biodegradable wax boasts a concentrated formula of waxes and washing compounds to effectively clean plus wax for an impressive shine.

This Gel-Gloss wax features a single-step fuss-free application yet will provide a lasting shine: apply then buff by hand, polishers or buffers. All in all, if you need the best wax for RV in terms of cost-effectiveness, this Gel-Gloss wax will be your best friend.

In use, several users notice slightly unpleasant scent from Gel-Gloss RV Wash and Wax but such is a minor inconvenience.

Pros

  • Great price 
  • High capacity wax bottle 
  • Many methods of application 

Cons

  • Odd color mix 
  • Produce streaks on occasions

6. Meguiar M5016 RV Wax

Why We Love It

In case you want the best RV wax that could get rid of unsightly marks on your exterior, Meguiar M5016 is going to be the top candidate. The robust composition of the Meguiar wax permits it to remove all sorts of contaminants and oxidations on a variety of vehicle surfaces. 

In addition, M5016 also creates an all-around protection on the finish of your RV that will last you many demanding trips on the roads. Such first-class extensive protection against the harsh elements would prove exceptionally useful if you spend a lot of time in the outdoors. 

Employing a non-abrasive formula, this Meguiar wax  is one of the finest choices on the market once it comes to waxing delicate surfaces, or one of the best wax for gelcoat RV thanks to its accommodating nature.  The straightforward application of the wax makes it highly appreciated by first-time RVers. 

Like other RV waxes from the brand Meguiar, M5016 could be applied using a wide range of methods from hands to machines with consistent results.

Pros

  • Undemanding application
  • Splendid life expectancy 
  • First-class outdoor shielding

Cons

  • Only add insignificant gloss for heavy oxidized surfaces

7. 303 Aerospace Protectant RV Wax

Why We Love It

Hailed as the best RV wax with UV protection, 303 Aerospace Protectant is highly sought after by RVers that plan to hit the road in summer times. Aerospace Protectant effectively prevents annoying issues caused by sunlight exposure like fading, discoloration and cracking. Additionally, the Aerospace Protectant also repels grimes, stains, and dust, so you only need to clean your RV exterior intermittently.

Regarding versatility, Aerospace Protectant works without a hitch on rubber, vinyl, plastic, gel coat, fiberglass and many other surfaces. If you intend to use the 303 protectant on leather-based applications, remember that it’s only rated for finished leather. 

Being rinse-free, 303 Aerospace Protectant is going to put together a dry, non-greasy finish which is loved by first-time and seasoned RVers alike. To enhance bonding, longevity and repellency, it’s a good idea to meticulously buff the exterior using a dry cloth.

303 Aerospace Protectant is available with and without sprayer, so just pick what suits you. The only downside is it is not exactly an affordable RV wax; you would need to pay a fair price for such versatile and reliable performance.

Best for our RV

I’ve been using 303 Protectant for about a decade now for cleaning and protecting the outdoor surfaces on our RV. It is especially effective in preserving the rubber seals and painted fiberglass surfaces. I use it instead of traditional waxes on our coach and recieve frequent admiration for how our 9-year-old Phaeton looks. I’m sure that there are more uses for this product. Obviously, I love it.

Shared by Orvil

Pros

  • Multiple choices 
  • Unmatched compatibility 
  • Reliable and versatile

Cons

  • Not too affordable
  • A few RVers complain about leakage 

8. Meguiar M5616 RV Wax

Why We Love It

Supporting both hand and machine application, Meguiar M5616 is by all accounts a sublime companion for all, from novices to veterans. Besides giving your recreational vehicle a high gloss finish, M5616 also guarantees top-notch protection against devastating UV rays. 

While this Meguiar wax performs admirably in all vehicles, it is particularly well-suited for dark-colored and clear-coated finishes. Its delicate formula allows Meguiar M5616 to tackle a variety of RV surfaces.

Packing pure Brazilian carnauba wax alongside complementing ingredients such as polymers and resins, M5616 is undisputedly second to none in terms of longevity. It’s going to take a long time before the Meguiar wax wears off so you have no need to concern yourself with constant reapplication. If required, Meguiar M5616 could be put to good use on non-RV applications including cars, boats and other machines, saving you significant time, money and effort working on a variety of projects.Acknowledged to be safe for humans and pets by many reviews, Meguiar M5616 is famous for being the best RV wax for sensitive, health conscious buyers.

Pros

  • Marvelous gloss
  • Suitable for many materials
  • Protect against UV rays

Cons

  • Tough to remove if you need to make corrections 
  • Quality control requires improvements

9. 3M Marine Restorer & RV Wax

Why We Love It

By making use of a double-duty formula with rubbing compounds and waxes, 3M Marine Restorer & Wax lets you restore the shine of your RV finish and add layers of protection at the same time. 

In addition, this product also removes medium oxidations, rust deposits and skid marks with ease. Although it indeed costs more than most of its competitors on the market, the performance of 3M Marine Restorer & Wax justifies the price if you prioritize a deep gloss and vibrant finish. Moreover, it’s residue-free. Thanks to such outstanding performance, coupled with the use of non-abrasive ingredients, this Marine Restorer & Wax is considered to be among the best wax for fiberglass RV

As for endurance, the 3M wax is able to hold together for a long time on the road if you follow the application instructions strictly. Similar to other leading RV waxes on the market, 3M Marine Restorer & Wax should perform well on a wide range of surfaces without requiring special preparation beforehand.

Marine Restorer & Wax is available for purchase in two options: 16-ounce and 32-ounce. For large waxing projects, the 32-ounce is ideal while for moderate-sized rigs, the 16-ounce version would suffice.

Pros

  • Lasting protection
  • Intuitive handling
  • Anti-contaminants

Cons

  • Price is on the steep side
  • Some products arrive damaged or leaked 

10. Meguiar M5032 RV Wax

Why We Love It

Capable of removing light oxidation effectively, Meguiar M5032 is known as the best RV wax for fiberglass surfaces that have weathered moderate uses. Being non-abrasive, M5032 would cause no damage to the delicate finish of your precious RV. Made to be highly adaptable, the Meguiar wax is applicable by hands, polishers and buffers. 

For protection, this Meguiar wax is an excellent RV wax with UV protection that can protect against color fading and oxidation. In addition to V protection, Meguiar M5032 proves to be effective at expelling corrosion from salt air, a must-have for RVers that travel through coastal areas. 

Depending on the size of your rig, you could choose from three options: 16-ounce, 32-ounce and 1-gallon bottles. 

To get the most out of M5032, it’s widely advised that you use cloths to wipe clean the finish of your rig before application. Next, apply the wax using whatever method you see fit but remember to spread it out evenly across the finish. Finally, use a microfiber towel to buff it off for a glossy finish.

Pros

  • Easy application 
  • Comprehensive protection

Cons

  • Often bake-in 
  • Minor inconsistencies in performance 

How to Choose the Best RV Wax

While different RVers may have different preferences, taking the following criteria into consideration while shopping for the best RV wax would surely get you a product with great value for your money.

best rv wax
Waxing protect your camper from outdoor factors.

Versatility

If you want to get the most out of your RV wax, you’ll need a product that works on various surfaces. This way you can use this wax on all sorts of vehicles and machines without it lying for months on end or wondering whether this wax would ruin your boat.

It’s also essential to ensure the RV wax has desirable versatility regarding climates and weather conditions. A hassle-free wax would offer protection against snow, rain, sleet, and extreme or fluctuating temperatures.

A glance at both the product description and customer reviews should give you a good idea on how a certain RV wax performs under varying conditions on the road. After all, you want an RV wax that will make sure your precious rig is glowing at all times while being protected, no matter where you roll.

Longevity

Waxing the exterior of a big recreational vehicle involves lots of hard work, which is why you need to use an RV wax that holds together for a while. The last thing you want, on top of many other RV maintenance duties, is to see the wax wearing off for a mere month after being applied, leaving your RV naked under the harsh elements. 

Therefore, it’s strongly recommended that you make longevity one of your priorities. You can find waxes with estimated longevity on the containers but as a precaution, check out the customer reviews to make informed investments. The best RV wax products currently on the market boasts up to a year of protection for your rig, which is ideal for frequent travelers. 

Protection

Aside from preserving the exterior of your rig in a pristine state, RV waxes also help to repel or guard against a variety of outdoors elements. For instance, if you apply layers of waxes designed to withstand UV rays on your vehicle, it would be able to retain its color and vibrancy for longer than usual under direct sunlight exposure. 

To make sure that the waxes you use pack the required protective properties, look carefully into product descriptions as well as user reviews. Additionally, take into account major weather challenges your RV face on the road and make purchases accordingly.

Abrasiveness

The abrasiveness, or “roughness,” of a wax measures how likely a wax is to cause haziness or leave small scratches on a finish. In most cases, scratches caused by applications of waxes often show up more clearly in dark-colored vehicles compared to light-colored ones.

RV waxes tend to be low or non-abrasive to avoid scratching a delicate fiberglass surface, but it’s best to look for waxes that advertise a non-abrasive formula and keep an eye on any fine scratches as you apply a wax to avoid major damage.

Application

Technically, you could always bring your recreational vehicle to auto workshops and let the professionals take care of the waxing. Nonetheless, as waxing service tends to cost a good deal of money, it’s wise for you to grab a product that allows straightforward application. 

Fortunately, modern-day waxes for RV don’t exactly demand a lot of time and effort to apply. But if you like to play it safe, glance over the product descriptions to see what needs to be done to properly apply a particular wax.

Cost

The best RV wax is not necessarily the most expensive, although highly-priced waxes generally feature more premium ingredients and technology and indeed offer more value than dirt-cheap ones. However, unless you have special needs, it’s unnecessary for you to empty your pockets to buy premium-grade waxes. If you search around, you would be able to locate affordable products that suit the requirements of the average RVers.


So, Which Is The Best RV Wax?

The Turtle Wax T-477R is our choice for the best RV wax. This spay wax is great for waxing your RV for any season. It produces exceptional water beading, and contains UV protection to help prevent fading from harsh sun exposure.

CorrosionX 61002 is another great choice as it produces an ultra-slick, high gloss polymer finish that seals and protects painted surfaces, glass, metal, gel coat, plastics. Super high-release coating technology rejects UV degradation & common contaminants.

Nu-Finish Liquid Polish is my personal favorite as it can keep the vehicle exterior looking new with only one application per year. It delivers impressive shine and protection without rubbing or buffing.


FAQs About Waxes Of RV

1. How to apply an RV wax?

Before applying an RV wax, it would be best to give your RV a good clean. You can do that with the help of a soft brush and a power wash.
Then, make sure you read the instructions on the wax bottle. In most cases, an RV wax can be applied on the surface, then buffed off in just one step.
Note that some of these products require the use of an applicator or soft cloth for the application. You may also need to let the surface sit and dry before you use a soft towel to buff it off.
An RV’s extensive surface area requires quite a bit of work. If you perform the work by hand on a 40’ motorhome, it would take you over 10 hours to finish the giant beast. 
Probably the best and the easiest way of applying an RV wax is with the help of a dual-action buffer. It will save you a lot of time and labour, and produce an excellent result without breaking the bank.
Such a buffer typically has a soft foam waxing pad on the head that rotates and oscillates. It is not a rotary tool so you don’t have to worry about inducing swirl marks into the finish.

2. How to choose the right wax for my RV based on its materials?

If you are unsure, it is best to grab an RV wax that claims to work on many surfaces, including the decals you would often see on many RVs. Otherwise, you can get a wax specifically designed to work on fiberglass, aluminum siding, decals, gel coat, or any other materials.
Most RV waxes would typically claim to work on fiberglass/gelcoat surface, which is the most common exterior material for RVs. In case your particular RV is made of a different material:
Fiberglass/gelcoat RVs: Make sure to get an RV wax specifically designed for this type of material. In case of corrugated fiberglass RVs, the material is still fiberglass/gelcoat but only with a rib texture, so you can use any wax that claims to work on fiberglass/gelcoat surfaces. You would only have more work to do due to the textured surface of your rig. 
Bare or coated aluminum RVs: All new models have a clear-coat applied over the aluminum. With bare RVs, you can wash and wax like with any car paint, so regular car wash and wax products would be sufficient.
Fully painted RVs: These RVs have full 2-stage paint, just like car paint: a base color coat with a top clear coat. Therefore, a regular car wax product would be sufficient.
You can use any form of regular car wax or RV wax for the painted sections on your RV. 

3. Do I need to prepare the waxing surface before applying?

To obtain the desired result with waxes, you need to wipe clean the exterior surfaces of your rig in advance. Warm waters and several pieces of cloths should be more than enough in most cases. 
Your targets include clumps of dust, leaves, seeds buds, bird droppings, stains and any type of buildup. Avoid using cleaning solutions. Afterward, you must wait for the surfaces to dry completely then proceed to apply the waxes using tools and materials stated in the product descriptions.

4. Is it mandatory to use specific waxes for specific materials?

You would be able to find out what sorts of materials your waxes work best on by reading product descriptions. To make things simple for RVers, manufacturers have churned out many products that perform well across surfaces. 
Nonetheless, your RV might be expensive and might demand different wax products for particular parts for optimal results. In such cases, remember that your RV is a huge investment, which justifies the expenses for the wax.

5. How often should I wax my recreational vehicle on average?

Depending on how often, when and where you travel, the interval between waxing varies markedly from person to person. Full-time RVers that travel around the year tend to reapply the wax every month.
On the other hand, RVers that only travel in selected seasons consider annual waxing sufficient. All in all, if you truly wish to keep your rig in top shape, remember to give it a solid wash and wax every 6 months. In case you notice flaking, it’s imperative to reapply the wax without delay.

6. What brands offer the best choices regarding RV waxes?

In the domain of car and RV wash and wax products, certain names stand out from the rest such as Meguiar, Gel-Gloss RV, Thetford, and Protect All. While products from these labels indeed fail to match customers expectations in some cases, you will get your money’s worth with a safe bet from one of these brands.

7. Is it wise to use RV waxes for other things?

Assuming that whatever you intend to apply the waxes on features the same properties as your rig, you would experience negligible issues during the applications. In fact, most RVers that bring cars, boats and other vehicles with them while traveling routinely wax everything with the RV waxes instead of buying separate products.
So feel free to use waxes of recreational vehicles for other things if you know that your boat, for instance, has the same material and/or finish with your RV. Once again, for safety reasons, go back and read the product descriptions before applying waxes.

You can also find our guides on how to choose the best wheel bearing grease for travel trailers, best RV roof sealant, best RV wash brush with detailed reviews in RV Maintenance category. In these buying guides, we only include and recommend the best products with the highest ratings among highly sold products on the market.

About Chris Coleman

Chris Coleman is an interesting travel blogger and outdoor photographer with a great sense of humor. He owns an RV Accessories shop in New York City so he has the knowledge necessary to provide thorough reviews and give advice on how to choose the right products for RV travel. He puts all that RV knowledge and experience to good use in his sharing posts. Besides product buying guides/reviews, Chris also writes informative articles, how-to articles and RV camping guides in his own interesting viewpoint. Chris’s blog is one of the most reliable information sources for RV campers no matter if you're an expert or a determined beginner.

18 thoughts on “Best RV Wax For Fiberglass, Gel Coat, Aluminum Siding, Decals & UV Protection”

  1. Just used CorrosionX 61002 on our Class C RV. We do not have the full body paint and wanted something to protect the gel coated side walls and vinyl graphics from the southwest sun. This went on extremely easy, goes a LONG way, and one of the best things to note….with traditional wax, if you leave it on too long it’s really difficult to get off. With this Rejex, we took a break for about 45 minutes and when we started wiping with our micro fiber cloth it wasn’t too difficult at all to buff out.

    We had quite a bit left in the bottle after finishing the whole 25′ class C including all the glass.

    Very happy with the application, the shine it put on, and the water shedding properties so far. I will update this review once we see how well the bugs come off which is why we tried this in the first place.

    Reply
    • Hi Jordan, Thanks for your useful review on CorrosionX 61002. We tested all 10 products above and CorrosionX 61002 stood out to be one of the best RV waxes. Easy on, easy off and a great shine afterwards. It makes bug and bird splat easier to remove. Good value for the price!

      Reply
  2. I bought Turtle Wax T-477R ICE with the intention of using it after every wash as I’ve already applied the Turtle Wax Seal N Shine as a base layer on the car and RV, which only really needs to be applied again every few months. I went with this due to how cost-effective it is and every picture/review I’ve seen has shown some incredible results and said it is the best spray wax available on the market.
    Using the product doesn’t take long at all – though that can be dependent on how big your vehicle is. I drive a Honda Civic Sedan, and it took about 20 minutes to wipe down the whole car. Simply spray and wipe with a microfiber cloth, and you’ll instantly see some shine. I also works great with my Lazy Daze Class C RV.
    I was more than impressed with the glossiness of the product. It really makes your car showroom sparkly, and that’s exactly what I wanted – a product I could use after every wash, that was quick and not high-maintenance but gave me excellent results.
    I’d highly recommend the product if you’re looking for something quick and simple with a nice glossy finish. Or if you’re someone who wants to take care of your car but doesn’t want to spend a lot of time detailing it. I’ll definitely be buying another bottle once it runs out.

    Reply
    • Hi Chuck, I need to admit that I was surprised with what this Turtle Wax T-477R ICE can do on my camper and my truck giving the deepest shine out of almost the spray waxes on the market that I’ve tried and having less static charge to attract dust. It gives you everything you need for a much lower price than its competitors.

      Reply
  3. I’ve been using 303 Protectant for about a decade now for cleaning and protecting the outdoor surfaces on our RV. It is especially effective in preserving the rubber seals and painted fiberglass surfaces. I use it instead of traditional waxes on our coach and receive frequent admiration for how our 9 near old Phaeton looks. I’m sure that there are more uses for this product. Obviously, I love it, best RV wax for fiberglass.

    Reply
    • Some of my friends recommended me this protectant from 303 Products. They said that they would never use anything else. Testing on this product I realize that it prevents uv damage and drying out of multiple surfaces effectively. It is great for RVs roof, trucks and cars on plastic, rubber, tires, and trim. We should use this spray on a clean surface about once every other month to keep your vehicle look always new and shinny. Thanks for your review, Bill.

      Reply
  4. I am using Nu Finish Liquid Polish on my Sportsmen 17fkth Toy Hauler/ Camper mainly to protect against UV damage. Read positive things about Nu Finish on RV forums and I have to agree. Went on easy and came off easy. Left a fantastic shine and beads water like crazy. I am very happy with this RV wax and would recommend to other RV campers.

    Reply
  5. I used Meguiar’s M5616 Pure Wax Carnauba Blend and I think it had a problem that it was a bit hard to wipe off and this was a horrible thing for me. I want to change a new brand that can work more effectively. Do you have any suggestions for me?

    Reply
    • Hi Robert, thanks for reaching out. Hope you had great time reading our article and gained some useful information about RV wax. To give you a reasonable recommendation on what RV wax to use, I would like to know what material of your RV exterior is. And what you mean specifically with the requirement “work more effectively” – easy to wipe off or more shiny or good longevity….? I mean what are your preferences?

      Reply
      • Thanks for replying, Chris! The material of my RV is aluminum and I looking for a wax that can remove stains and debris effectively as well as protect my RV from harsh elements and abrasive. And, easy to wipe off or more shiny or good longevity, of course.

        Reply
  6. I bought Meguiar’s M-4965 kit for my recent 1988 Bayliner Center Console that looked as though it had not been buffed in years. The polish helped enrich the blues and whites on the hull of my boat. The wax finished it off with a protective layer that guards against water spots, bird droppings, etc… I will be buying it again and highly recommend it!

    Reply
  7. My husband said that he had used up TR Industries product. Our housekeepers pretty much ruined the sink with the use of a cleanser, so I switched to this product to avoid any further damage. It is thought and a little difficult to spread, and requires a bit of elbow grease to polish and shine, but it does work well.

    Reply
  8. We used Meguiar to wax our RV. After using it, our RV was a totally different color! It went from old dingy yellow to a nice new off-white. I did skip the polish step a few times and just removed oxidation then sealed it with pure wax. Very happy with this product.

    Reply
  9. I bought Turtle wax to use on my cars for a quick an easy protective shine. It is easy to apply and buff to a shine without the mess and effort of paste-type wax. Love this product. Use it to wax my entire 40′ RV in record time.

    Reply
  10. Thanks so much for sharing! Your article was really useful for me that compared almost the best products on the market. This helps me easier to choose a suitable one for me.

    Reply
  11. If what you are shopping for the best spray wax for RV then I am pretty sure that you will be satisfied with the Meguiar’s M5032 One-step Liquid Cleaner Wax: it contains chemical cleaners designed to eliminate minor swirls, light oxidation, scratches, and haze from your marine or RV. Removes stains and debris and deliver long-lasting protection from corrosion, salt air, and the V rays of the sun. It is one of the best wax for gel coat RV as well as fiberglass as it ensures that the materials stay vibrant, crisp, and shiny for a long period of time.

    Reply
    • If you are seriously searching for a high-quality Meguiar’s RV wax then I can say that the brand’s M5032 One-step Liquid Cleaner Wax designed for RV and marine use is one of your ultimate solutions.

      Reply
  12. We have a new Forest River Geo Pro. As it has lots of decals and we live in Albuquerque, NM where summers are very warm and we get a lot of sunshine our primary concerns are not damaging the decals by using the wrong wax and getting the best in UV protection. Your article covers which brands have good UV protection but it wasn’t clear to me after reading it which products are safest for decals.

    Reply

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