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Do NOT use WD-40 on these parts of your RV

Dave Solberg
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5
Do NOT use WD-40 on these parts of your RV

Dear Dave,
You recently ran a post about different lubricants for specific areas and WD-40 was only recommended by HWH [Corporation]. What areas should we be careful not to use it on? —Lem, 2021 Grand Design Imagine

Dear Lem,
For years I was a big fan of WD-40, starting with old cars in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Back then, we would get condensation inside the distributor cap and a good shot of WD-40 fixed that. However, in recent years I have found that many of the components on RVs have an inherent grease or lubrication. WD-40 will actually wipe that off and do more harm than good.

Here are some areas and components that should not be sprayed with WD-40

Door locks, latches, and compartment door latches

Trimark is one of the major manufacturers of door locks and latches. Here is what they recommend for their latches, locks, and cylinders:

Products manufactured by TriMark are lubricated and shipped with the minimum amount of lubrication to function correctly when they leave the factory. Many products have a dry-type solid film lubricant applied that will give years of trouble free performance. However, mechanical products do require maintenance and periodic lubrication. The application of a quality lubricant such as Cen-Pe-Co HTLD Grease, or its equivalent, will maintain the quality and performance of the TriMark products.

TriMark ensures high performance grease is used and demonstrates excellent mechanical stability with no breakdown after 100,000 cycles. In addition, it has excellent thermal stability and performs well over a wide temperature range. It is also resistant to water and provides corrosion resistance.

Door Latch
Door latch

Lock cylinder lubrication

Under certain conditions, the TriMark lock cylinder can experience corrosion build-up that can cause the lock shutter to stick open and the key insertion to be slightly difficult. Depending on application and environmental conditions, the following recommendations should be used: 1) For indoor use – no maintenance is necessary. 2) For outdoor use in areas that endure constant exposure to snow and rain – lubricate with “Tri-Flow” or any other lightweight oil every 3 months. Coastal areas that have constant exposure to salt atmosphere may require more frequent applications. 3) For outdoor use in areas where there is not constant exposure to moisture and dust – no lubrication is recommended. Do Not use a heavy grease or WD-40.

Slider windows

According to Hehr and other manufacturers, it is not recommended to use WD-40 on the slide rails of windows as it will attract grit and deteriorates the rubber seals. It is best to use powdered graphite or a dry lube.

Cabinet doors and drawers

WD-40 will penetrate into wood when applied to lubricate hinges, sticky doors, or wooden drawer tracks. It will not only stain the finish, but can also deteriorate the wood itself. It is recommended to use beeswax or even a bar of soap.

Liquid propane (LP) stovetop, oven, furnace, or water heater

WD-40 is flammable, so using it around any appliance that has an open flame can be dangerous.

Stovetop
LP stovetop

Toilet flange or dump valves

Since WD-40 degrades rubber, using it on the toilet seal or dump valve lever can cause the seal to deteriorate and leak. Also, it will wash away any inherent lubrication on the valve bar.

Toilet Seal

Dump Valve
Dump valve

Polycarbonate and clear polystyrene plastic

According to their website, WD-40 is great on most plastics. However, it should not be used on impact resistant and clear plastics like eyeglasses and lighting fixtures, It can be difficult to tell what type of plastic is used in your RV, so do a test in a small area before applying.

Electronics

Items such as phones, tablets, keyboards, and light switches or buttons can stick, but using WD-40 can seep inside and cause damage.

Anything that comes into contact with food

WD-40 is not food-safe and should not be use to lubricate or clean any device, utensil, or appliance that has the potential of coming into contact with food.

The front of your RV

Bugs, tar, and grime have always been difficult to get off the front fiberglass or plastic components of RVs. I have talked with several owners that spray WD-40 on the front cap, bumper, and grill to make it easier to clean. However, this just attracts grit and can discolor the paint and plastic.

Travel Trailer

Bearings

WD-40 will degrade the grease designed to lubricate bearings and cause premature bearing failure.

Body parts

Sounds weird, but some people claim to spray WD-40 on knees, elbows, and other joints and claim it helps! WD-40 has a neuro toxin property in its formula that can be drawn into the blood system quickly and can cause damage to your heart.

What WD-40 can be used for

However, WD-40 does have some great qualities—so don’t throw it away until you read the good things it does in this article by Russ and Tiña De Maris here.

 You might also enjoy these posts from Dave 

Dave Solberg is a leading expert in the RV industry and the author of the “RV Handbook.”

Read more from Dave here. 

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RVDT2672

16 helpful tips and tricks for your RV kitchen

Gail Marsh
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4
16 helpful tips and tricks for your RV kitchen

I love RVers’ ingenuity! Here are some kitchen tips and tricks fellow RVers have taught me. The tips will save you time, money, and even a bit of frustration as you RV!

I hope these tips work as well for you as they do me.

Grocery tip

RVers make it a habit to keep an insulated bag in the back seat of the car and truck. An instant ice bag rides inside it. (The kind you twist to activate. Like this.)

How it helps: The bag is ready in case you purchase an item that must be kept cold on the ride back to the RV campground.

Bitter coffee

Add a generous pinch of kosher salt to the top of the coffee grounds before adding the water. Your coffee will not taste bitter.

How it helps: You can save money by not purchasing expensive coffee blends. More $$ for RV travels!

Add creamer

Substitute flavored coffee creamer for milk when making French toast. My favorites are hazelnut and vanilla. Yum!

How it helps: One less spice to pack along in your RV. Let the creamer do double duty!

Soften brown sugar

If you need to soften that rock-hard brown sugar, just slip it in the microwave for about 30 seconds. Or, put marshmallows inside the brown sugar bag to soften the sugar within a day.

How it helps: You’re going to pack along marshmallows for s’mores, anyway. Just pop a few extras in the brown sugar bag! Not a s’mores fan? Use your microwave and get those cookies stirred up in a jiffy.

Soft ice cream

Keep your ice cream soft and ready to eat. All you have to do is place the carton inside a zip-type bag, zip it closed, and place it inside your RV freezer.

How it helps: No more ice crystals or so-hard-it’s-impossible-to-scoop ice cream!

Quick chill wine

Place your wine bottle inside a tall pitcher. Add ice and cold water. The wine will be chilled in about 20 minutes—or by the time you get snacks prepared and delivered to the campfire.

How it helps: Store unopened wine bottles elsewhere and save precious space inside your RV refrigerator.

Easily remove husks

Shuck corn quickly like this. Place the corn (with husk) into your RV microwave. Heat on high for 30 seconds to a minute. The corn easily slips out and leaves the husk (and silk) behind.

How it helps: Save time (and frustration). You’ll have more time to watch the sunset!

Dice eggs with a cooling rack

RV kitchen tip: use cooling rack to chop boiled egg. Image: Gail Marsh (no need to attribute.)

Forget packing an egg slicer/dicer. Use your cooling rack instead. Place a cooling rack over a bowl. Then press a hard-boiled egg through the rack. The diced eggs will fall through to the bowl, instantly ready for your salad. This also works for dicing avocados.

How it helps: No egg slicer needed so the method frees up some RV drawer space.

Grate cheese easily

Spritz a quick spray of your cooking spray onto your cheese grater. Then grate away! Also, if you grate soft cheese, put the cheese in your RV freezer for about 30 minutes. It will harden a bit and be easier to grate. In a hurry? Use unflavored dental floss to cut soft cheeses into slices.

How it helps: Cheese will not stick to the grater. Save money by purchasing block cheese and have more $$ for adventures.

Keep snacks cool

Fill a zip-type bag with ice. Zip the bag closed and place it in the bottom of a bowl. Top with lettuce leaves. Then arrange your appetizers on top of the lettuce.

How it helps: Your appetizers will remain cool and safe to eat!

Top it off

If you use coffee that comes in a 48-oz. plastic container (like Folger’s brand) don’t toss out the lid when the container is empty. The lid perfectly fits a Corelle bowl!

How it helps: No need to transfer leftover food into a storage container. Plus, you’re recycling!

More juice

Before juicing lemons for lemonade, try this. Put the lemons in the microwave and heat on high for 7-10 seconds. Remove and use your palm to roll the lemons back and forth on the countertop. Then poke a hole in the non-stem end using a skewer. Squeezed juice can be directed exactly where you want it.

How it helps: You’ll get much more juice with less effort. This works for limes, too.

Cut herbs quickly

Use your pizza cutter to quickly cut herbs. Bunch up the herbs and place them on a cutting board. Then roll the pizza cutter over the herbs in all directions until the herbs are cut to your satisfaction.

How it helps: Saves time (and is even kind of fun).

Preserve tomatoes and more

If you store tomatoes stem down they will last longer. Or you can remove the barcode sticker and put it directly on the stem end.

Also, to keep bananas fresh longer, tightly cover the stem with plastic wrap.

How it helps: Reduces waste and allows you to spend less time at the grocery store. Win, win!

Scoop tip

Use an ice cream scoop to remove seeds from a cantaloupe. It works much better than a spoon.

How it helps: An ice cream scoop is usually sharper than the edge of a regular spoon so removing seeds is easier—and quicker, too. You can get the melon to the picnic table in no time.

Even out baking

Some RVers put a pizza stone in their RV ovens to help even out temperatures when baking. Here’s an alternative idea. Use an AirBake insulated bakewear sheet. Place your casserole dish or cake pan atop the AirBake sheet to bake.

How it helps: Things will bake more evenly and, unlike a pizza stone, the AirBake bakewear sheet weighs less and will not break.

Your turn

Do you have some tips and tricks for your RV kitchen? Share your ideas in the comments that follow.

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RVDT2672

Campsite theft gets weird and personal

Video Editor
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14
Campsite theft gets weird and personal

Some people expect wild animal encounters or questionable bathrooms when camping, but nobody really thinks their biggest problem will be theft—especially not theft of something so oddly personal. After more than a decade of carefree camping, Andy and Wendy from The Camping Loop finally got hit by campground robbers, and the story is almost too strange to believe.

The trip started like any other, with a friendly setup and that perfect feeling of being outdoors. A day or two in, the mood shifted. Andy and Wendy noticed something missing, but not the usual valuables. After double-checking every nook and cranny, reality set in: they’d been robbed. But it wasn’t propane, an inverter, or even their scooter. It was… their custom RV sign.

What did the campground robbers steal? Not what you’d expect!

Instead of going for things that might actually fetch some cash, the thief swiped the family’s hand-painted, personalized “Home is Where You Park It” wooden sign. The scooters? Untouched. The wannabe Yeti cooler? Left right where it was. Forget the expensive stuff—just take this chunk of wood with our names on it!

Andy joked that maybe someone wanted to make their RV look like it was a year or two newer (the sign had the family’s name and “established” date), or perhaps they just needed a new “identity.”

Who steals a wooden sign at a campground? Andy rattled off a few wild guesses:

• Maybe the thief wanted a fake “established” date for their own RV.

• Perhaps it was meant as a prank to get a laugh.

• Or there’s just someone out there who’s a klepto for keepsakes.

Who even does that?

When Wendy mentioned it to the ranger making rounds, the answer was almost as surprising as the crime:

“Oh, yeah. That happens sometimes.”

So, it turns out that campground theft isn’t as rare as most hope. And while bears might snatch a cooler or raid your marshmallows, only humans steal signs with your name on them.

The sign was attached to the front tongue of the camper jack—a spot Andy never thought twice about. It seemed safe, especially since it was personalized. But that made it even more tempting for the wrong person.

After the theft, the family didn’t sit back. Armed with a handful of zip ties (thanks, junk drawer), Andy decided future signs would stick around much longer. Here’s how:

1. Hang your sign on your fence or camper.

2. Thread several zip ties through holes in the sign and fence.

3. Use every other loop to make removal a hassle.

It won’t stop a determined thief, but it sure might slow them down—or at least make enough noise to give you a chance!

General camping theft prevention tips

Andy and Wendy offered up these straightforward tips to help keep your stuff safe:

• Don’t leave gear or decorations unattended.

• Store anything tempting inside when leaving your site.

• Pay close attention to the people around you.

• Look out for your neighbors’ stuff, too.

• Report any suspicious activity.

One neighboring couple even shared how their grill was taken right out of their truck on a previous trip. It pays to be careful.

In over 12 years, not one thing was ever stolen from Andy and Wendy’s campsite. No firewood, no gear, just plenty of minor annoyances like propane leaks and questionable restrooms. That streak ended with a custom wooden sign.

Have you ever had something stolen while camping? Share your stories in the comments below!

Oh, and wait until you hear what was stolen from another RV last week. Think: $3,500 of western gear! Gone! Here’s that crazy story.

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RVDT2672

Do you own your RV outright or make payments?

RV Travel
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20
Do you own your RV outright or make payments?

For many RVers, buying a rig is one of the biggest purchases they’ll ever make—second only to buying a home. That’s why we’re curious: At this very moment, do you own your RV outright, or are you still making payments on it?

We all know that RV ownership comes with plenty of rewards—freedom, adventure, and the ability to bring your “home” just about anywhere. But it also comes with costs, and financing is a common part of the equation. Depending on the type of RV and the terms of the loan, monthly payments can stretch across 10, 15, or even 20 years. Some folks dive in with big down payments and aggressive payback schedules, while others are more comfortable spreading the cost out over time.

So today we want to know: Do most of you own your rigs outright, or is monthly financing the norm? If you’re someone still making payments, we’d love it if you’d share how much longer you expect to be making those payments. Your insight could help fellow RVers who are weighing their own financing options or just trying to understand what’s typical in the community.

Paying off an RV can be a huge relief—no more monthly bills, and more flexibility to use that money elsewhere, like fuel, campground fees, maintenance, or travel adventures. On the flip side, having an RV loan isn’t necessarily a bad thing. For many, it’s what makes RV life possible in the first place. Especially when interest rates are low, financing can be a reasonable way to hit the road sooner rather than later.

So tell us—where do you stand? Is your RV all yours, or are you still in payback mode? Take the poll and, if you’re willing, leave a comment with your loan timeline. You never know who might benefit from hearing your story.

MORE POLLS YOU MIGHT ENJOY:

RVDT2672

RVer dies from brain-eating amoeba. How can you protect yourself?

Russ and Tiña De Maris
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2
RVer dies from brain-eating amoeba. How can you protect yourself?

Recently, a 71-year-old woman died after using a nasal rinsing device filled with tap water from her RV’s water system at a campground. Tests confirmed she was infected with Naegleria fowleri. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) now says it’s the first known death linked to nasal rinsing with untreated water from an RV system. Is there anything RVers can do to protect themselves from brain-eating amoeba in RV water?

How to avoid brain-eating amoeba in RV water

The rare but deadly infection called primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) is caused by a tiny organism named Naegleria fowleri. It’s often called the “brain-eating amoeba.” This microscopic amoeba lives in warm freshwater and can enter the body through the nose. It can cause a severe brain infection that is almost always fatal. Unfortunately, there are very few effective treatments.

Doctors warn that using water that isn’t properly disinfected for nasal rinsing can be extremely dangerous. Even if the water looks clean, it may contain harmful germs like this deadly amoeba.

Can RVers test their water for this amoeba?

Unfortunately, testing for Naegleria fowleri is not practical for most RVers. The organism is microscopic and requires specialized lab tests that aren’t available for consumer use. While some water testing kits can check for common bacteria, they cannot detect this amoeba. Testing water immediately before nasal irrigation isn’t feasible, so prevention is the best approach.

What about water filters?

brain-eating amoeba in RV waterSome water filters can remove certain bacteria and cysts, but most are not designed to remove all pathogens, including Naegleria fowleri, reliably. If you use filters, make sure they are rated to remove particles as small as 1 micron or less. Even then, filtration alone may not guarantee safety from this amoeba.

How can you keep your RV water safe?

To avoid health issues related to water, always fill your fresh water tank from trusted, treated municipal supplies or certified safe water sources. That’s a good trick, and in this case, hard to determine. In the case of the tragedy that befell the RVer, testing couldn’t find out just what the source of the amoeba was. Neither the RV fresh tank, the nasal spray bottle, nor the RV park water system turned up traces of the bug. How could that be?

Investigators pointed out that the water samples were taken 23 days after the woman used the water for nasal rinsing. Because of this delay, it’s possible the harmful organism was no longer present or was in amounts too small for the tests to detect. Even though the amoeba wasn’t found in the samples, it was still clear that the water had not been properly disinfected. So what else can you do?

More tips for keeping water safe

  • Regularly sanitize your RV’s fresh water tank and plumbing. This usually involves flushing the system with a bleach solution and thoroughly rinsing afterward.
  • Never use tap or RV tank water directly for nasal rinsing. Instead, use distilled, sterile, or boiled water (boil for at least one minute, or three minutes at higher elevations).
  • Keep your water hoses and connections clean, using only hoses rated for drinking water.
  • Some RVers only use water from their fresh tank, or an unknown-quality water supply, for cleaning and cooking. When it comes to drinking or toothbrushing, they rely on known-quality bottled water.

Although more research is needed to fully understand infections like this and how to prevent them, taking these simple steps helps reduce your risk. Protect yourself and your family by making sure your water is safe every time you fill your RV tanks and before using it for sensitive uses like nasal rinsing.

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RVT1219b

Rats! RV fire blamed on rodents. Here’s how to protect your rig

Russ and Tiña De Maris
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2
Rats! RV fire blamed on rodents. Here’s how to protect your rig

An RVer who hadn’t used their fifth wheel for more than a week had to be mighty dismayed when they found the rig completely destroyed by fire. The Idaho State Fire Marshal’s office points the finger at rodent activity. Rats! RV rodent-caused fires are enough to really ruin your lifestyle.

RV rodent-caused fire breaks out in Cascade, Idaho

While not directly able to point to the critter in question, the fire marshal says the big fire which wiped out the RV last Saturday was “possibly caused” by some sort of rodent. “Possibly” was enough for the authorities to offer the advice for RV owners “to use repellents designed to discourage mice and other small animals from nesting inside recreational vehicles.”

Happily, nobody was hurt in the fire. The indirect cause of the fire was specified as “electrical in origin.” It begs the question, how often are rodents responsible for reprehensible RV damage? While exact statistics are hard to pin down, here are some credible estimates:

  • The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) doesn’t track rodent-specific fire stats, but says about 51,000 U.S. home fires annually are caused by electrical failure or malfunction. Rodents are believed to be a significant contributor to these, though not always isolated in reports.
  • Pest control and insurance industry sources often estimate that 20–25% of all fires of unknown origin may be caused by rodents chewing wires.
  • RVs and vehicles are especially vulnerable. In colder months, rodents nest in engine bays and undercarriages, where wire-chewing is common. Some insurance companies report dozens of fire claims per year linked to rodent activity.

So how are rodents and RV fires related?

Rodents (especially rats and mice) have a habit of chewing through electrical wiring, which can lead to:

  • Short circuits
  • Electrical arcing
  • Overheating
  • Fires in walls or hidden spaces

Look for rodent infestation

So how can you protect your RV from rodent-related fires? Look for the telltale signs for rodent infestation. Check out our handy chart.

RV rodent fires
RV rodent infestation (click/tap to enlarge)

And one more thing on RV rodent fires: If you find evidence of RV rodent riders, skip the idea of putting out soap. Click here for the rodents-and-soap reveal.

MORE POSTS ON PESTS

RVT1215b

Love’s hits 100 RV Stops with style

Russ and Tiña De Maris
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2
Love’s hits 100 RV Stops with style

Back in 2021, Love’s Travel Stops rolled out its very first RV-friendly location in Guthrie, Oklahoma. Since then, they’ve been on a roll—and now they’ve just hit a major milestone: Love’s 100th RV Stop, this time in Carlin, Nevada.

That’s a whole lot of places for RV travelers to park, plug in, and take a breather on the road.

Four-legged co-pilots enjoy Love’s 100th RV Stop

The brand-new Carlin stop sits right off Interstate 80 in northeastern Nevada, and comes loaded with everything RVers dream about: seven RV hookups with water and sewer, a dump station (because, let’s be honest, that’s a big deal), and even Wi-Fi for those who want to stream their favorite shows while enjoying the great outdoors.

But wait, there’s more! The stop also features six private showers, a dog park where your four-legged co-pilot can stretch their legs, plus delicious grub options with a Carl’s Jr. and Love’s Fresh Kitchen right there.

Jim Wheeler, Love’s director of hospitality and RV operations, says, “Reaching 100 RV stops is a proud moment for all of us. We’ve listened carefully to what RV travelers want—convenience, cleanliness, safety, and that ‘home away from home’ feel. The Carlin stop really shows what we’re aiming for: making every visit smooth, easy, and enjoyable.”

What makes them different? Love’s tells you

What sets Love’s apart from the pack? It’s their coast-to-coast network of locations, 24/7 service, and top-notch cleanliness and customer care.

Whether you’re a weekend warrior, a family heading out on vacation, or a full-time RV nomad, Love’s has your back. From a place to eat, to a place to get rid of your holding tank contents, Love’s has it.

With more and more people hitting the road in their RVs every year, Love’s is committed to providing reliable, welcoming spots to rest, refuel, and refresh. You can be sure Love’s 100th RV Stop isn’t the last.

Want to find the nearest Love’s RV Stop on your route? Check out their website for the full list of locations and get ready to hit the road with confidence!

MORE ON LOVE’S TRAVEL STOPS

RVT1215b

A hot dog at a nudist RV park allegedly sparked a double murder

Russ and Tiña De Maris
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2
A hot dog at a nudist RV park allegedly sparked a double murder

A man accused of killing a couple at a Southern California nudist resort may have done so after becoming angry over a hot dog, according to a detective’s court testimony in a preliminary hearing. It’s the latest detail in the tragic story we carried earlier of the RV park murders.

RV park murders at Olive Dell Ranch

RV park murders
Alleged murderer, Michael Sparks. Redlands, CA, police photo.

Michael Royce Sparks, 62, has been charged with two counts of murder with special circumstances in connection with the deaths of his neighbors, Stephanie Menard, 73, and her husband, Daniel Menard, 79. The couple lived at Olive Dell Ranch, a nudist resort and residential RV park located in Redlands, about 60 miles east of Los Angeles.

The Menards were last seen on August 24, 2024. When they didn’t return home or contact anyone, they were reported missing. A search eventually led police to Sparks’ property. Investigators discovered the couple’s remains inside bags hidden in a concrete bunker beneath his home. To complete the search, authorities had to demolish the home with heavy equipment.

“Cheap dollar hot dog” insult allegedly led to RV park murders

During a recent court hearing, a detective testified that Sparks admitted the killings to another inmate while in jail. According to that testimony, Sparks said he felt insulted when Daniel Menard gave him a hot dog. Sparks claimed it made him feel like he was being treated as if he were only worth a “cheap dollar hot dog,” and that was what pushed him over the edge.

Police believe the murders were especially violent. Sparks is accused of using a rake, a hoe, and a hammer to kill the Menards. In our original story, we reported the whereabouts of the Menard’s dog, Cuddles, were unknown. Sadly, Cuddles, was also killed—Sparks allegedly admitted to drowning the dog in a sink after the murders took place.

From tree trimming dispute to hideous murder

Neighbors at the Olive Dell Ranch said tensions between Sparks and the Menards had existed for years. One resident told reporters that the trouble began more than a decade ago, when Sparks refused to trim a tree that bordered their properties. The Menards ended up trimming the tree themselves, which reportedly angered Sparks and started a long-running feud.

Tammie Wilkerson, another neighbor, said she wasn’t surprised there was conflict, but never expected it to end in violence. “He didn’t like them, and he wasn’t shy about saying so,” she told KABC. “But I didn’t think he’d ever be able to do something like this.”

Olive Dell shaken

The Olive Dell Ranch, where all three lived, is known for its unique setting—a mix of RV park and nudist retreat. According to its website, it’s a “family-friendly resort” offering full-time residency and weekend stays for people looking to live a clothes-free lifestyle.

Sparks remains in jail while awaiting trial. He has not entered a plea. The case has drawn national attention because of the unusual setting, the bizarre motive, and the disturbing details that have emerged during the investigation.

Authorities say the case is still active, and they continue to gather evidence. In the meantime, the community at Olive Dell remains shaken by the tragic RV park murders that unfolded in their normally quiet, off-the-beaten-path neighborhood.

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RVT1215b

RV Daily Tips. Monday, June 23, 2025

Newsletter Editor
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11
RV Daily Tips. Monday, June 23, 2025

Issue 2671

Today’s thought

”We act as though comfort and luxury were the chief requirements of life, when all that we need to make us happy is something to be enthusiastic about.” —Charles Kingsley

Need an excuse to celebrate? Today is National Detroit-Style Pizza Day!

On this day in history: 1868 – Christopher Latham Sholes received a patent for an invention he called the “Type-Writer”.

Tip of the day
How to wash and wax an RV, plus pro detailing tips

By Cheri Sicard
Andrew Steele from RVing with Andrew Steele shows how to wash and wax an RV, plus he shares professional RV detailing tips. Besides showing you all the products he uses to keep his clients’ multi-million dollar bus RVs looking new, he reviews his entire process.. If your RV is looking a little dirty, read and watch this.

TIPS FROM THIS WEEKEND YOU MAY HAVE MISSED:

Ask Dave
What is Bar Keepers Friend and where on my RV can I use it?

Dear Dave,
In some of your posts you recommend Bar Keeper’s Friend. What is it and where can, or can’t, I use it? —Terry, 2016 Thor Challenger  Read Dave’s answer, including 10 of its many uses, here.

BREAKING NEWS — Heavy rain, flooding and a rock slide have again closed a section of Interstate 40 along its narrow corridor through the Great Smoky Mountains. Engineers expect the road to be closed for at least two weeks.

In the RV shop with Dustin
Custom RV tow hitch modifications you might want to consider

Join me “In The RV Shop” as I talk about custom tow hitch modifications that came through the shop. You can enhance the towing capabilities and the overall functionality of your RV by modifying your tow hitch. However, it’s important to approach any modifications with careful consideration of safety, legal requirements, and compatibility with your RV and towed vehicles. Continue reading.

New and improved Dump Buddy is a must-have gadget for RV dumping
Don’t miss Tony Barthel’s updated review of the new and improved Dump Buddy. What’s a Dump Buddy? It’s essentially a plastic collar that goes around a sewer pipe in the ground and then another one that goes around your sewer hose elbow. You simply use the knob to tighten the collar around the sewer pipe and then flip up the second collar and tighten that around the sewer hose. Read Tony’s review here or order on Amazon here.

Article and video
The best camera system for your RV

By Cheri Sicard
Many RV owners struggle to find a reliable way to see what’s behind their rig. According to Jared Gillis of All About RVs, the WOLFBOX G900 TriPro rearview camera system brings a smart answer to the RV backup camera dilemma. It looks like a regular rearview mirror, mounts right where you’re used to glancing, and offers crisp, high-quality views for safer towing. It’s sleek, easy to use, and takes up almost no extra space. You might want to consider something like this.

The latest news for RVers

To read more recent news, click here.

DID YOU KNOW? Newport, Oregon, is the “Dungeness Crab Capital of the World.”

Featured article
I compared several wind apps. This one is the best and most accurate

By Nanci Dixon
We are riding out the wind in Altus, Arkansas, for three long nights of tornadoes, severe weather, and unrelenting wind. As we were driving in the wind gusts, my husband would ask for continuous, up-to-the-minute wind reports punctuated by questions of where the next campground or RV park was. I started to think I needed a meteorologist degree! Turns out I just needed to try a few wind apps… Continue reading.

Reader poll
Have you ever experienced food poisoning when RVing?

Respond here.

Quick tip
Shirt closet shelves?

Got one of those shirt closets next to your bed but don’t need it for hanging? Facebook member Beth H. fixed her problem with wire shelving and Command strips from Lowe’s. “I bought a wire shelf from Lowe’s and cut it down to the sizes I needed, then attached Command hooks to the sidewalls and now I have shelves. Easily removed if I need more hanging room.”

Website of the day

37 Best Summer Cocktails
We’re so excited that it’s finally summer that we’re doing all we can to celebrate, and that includes a cocktail (or two!). Join us, won’t you? Cheers!

? MYSTERY PRODUCT OF THE DAY ?
This has always been one of the most popular products our readers have purchased through our Amazon affiliate program. When we think about it, we can understand why they would appreciate having this inexpensive item along on their trips.

Trivia

The Big Mac hamburger’s journey began in 1967 when Jim Delligatti, a McDonald’s franchisee in Pittsburgh, introduced a double-decker burger. Featuring two all-beef patties, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onions, and a special sauce on a three-part sesame seed bun, it was an instant hit. By 1968, the Big Mac was rolled out nationwide.

Readers’ pet of the day

“This is Henry, 17 years old. Loves to travel. Has been to 45 of our 50 states. Sadly, we lost him a month ago. He will be missed on our future travels.” —David Miller

Wow, 17 years! You did something right, David. So sorry about the loss of your little pal. It looks like you gave him a long, wonderful life. 

Send us a photo of your pet with a short description. No blurry photos and please do not submit your photo more than once. Thanks!

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What is Bar Keepers Friend and where on my RV can I use it?

Dave Solberg
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What is Bar Keepers Friend and where on my RV can I use it?

Dear Dave,
In some of your posts you recommend Bar Keepers Friend. What is it and where can, or can’t, I use it? —Terry, 2016 Thor Challenger

Dear Terry,
I was introduced to Bar Keepers Friend® (BKF) several years ago while working with Nanofilm Technology and their windshield treatment product called Clarity Defender. We would clean the windshield with it and very fine steel wool to get any dirt and lingering wax from a car wash or previously applied Rain X. The liquid had to be applied in direct contact with the glass or it would not work. I have never seen a windshield that clean since!

Bar Keepers Friend comes in either powder or liquid form. It was advertised originally as tavern owners’ secret cleaning compound. Their website states: “Bar Keepers Friend superior hard surface cleansers tackle rust, mineral deposits, baked-on food, and other tough stains with gentle, bleach-free formulations. Bar Keepers Friend makes industrial-strength cleaning safe, quick, and easy.”

The cleaning agent was discovered by chemist George William Hoffman in Indianapolis in 1882—which is also the year Jesse James was shot and Jackie Gleason was born! After cooking rhubarb in his kitchen, George noticed that oxalic acid, naturally found in rhubarb, was an excellent cleaning agent and started selling the powder to bars. The logo represents old-time swinging saloon doors.

You can find the powder version of Barkeepers Friend on Amazon here.

Bar Keepers Friend Powder
Bar Keepers Friend powder

The liquid version of BKF is on Amazon here.

Bar Keepers Friend Liquid
Bar Keepers Friend liquid

What you can clean with Bar Keepers Friend

On the Bar Keepers Friend (BKF) website, it lists 50 pages of cleaning tips using BKF, which includes more than 500 items. So, I will list what I feel are the top 10 as it pertains to RVs.

Windshields and windows

As stated earlier, liquid BKF is great for cleaning windshields and windows of RVs. Make sure to use either a soft microfiber cloth or very fine steel wool if you are trying to remove old wax. DO NOT USE scrub pads or sponges unless they are non-scratch, and even then I would be cautious. I used one of the popular green scratch pads to get the wax off my truck windshield and it lived up to it’s name… scratch pad! Now my windshield has a psychedelic set of swirls that glisten when the sun hits it just right. Rinse the windshield first and then apply a generous amount of the liquid paste BKF on a micro-fiber towel. Clean the entire glass surface and rinse it off.

Remove rust and brake drum dust from rims

Whether you have standard rims, stainless steel, or customized magnesium ones, BKF is great to polish them up without scratching. Use a soft bristle brush or towel and rinse the rim first and polish them up. You can use either the liquid or powder if the rim and towel are wet.

Clean kitchen and bathroom surfaces

BKF is great for cleaning solid surface material, stainless steel sinks and faucets, and even glass cooktops. Apply it as a paste on the surface and let it sit for a minute, no longer than five, and clean with a sponge in a circular motion. Rinse the sponge and wipe off the surface.

Restore faded fiberglass

The gel coat on the outside skin of your sidewall can get faded due to exposure to the sun. BKF can be used as a mild polishing compound to buff out the fading and restore the luster of the gel coat. Keep in mind that it will only be effective on mild fading and not extensive cracking, delamination, or on decals.

Cleaning hard water scaling

Typically the water used in your rig for flushing the toilet and showering is hard water from the campground source. It is common for the fixtures to get a hard water residue or scaling. BKF can be used to clean the toilet, sink, and shower to break down the residue and restore the finish.

Clean burnt pans

Whether you let the pot on the stove burn too long, or got the outside of a pan burned on the campfire, BKF can be used to help restore the original look. If the pan is burned on the inside, I like to add about 1 inch of water and pour in a couple teaspoons of powdered BKF and cook it to a boil. Let it go for a few minutes, dump out the mixture and clean the inside with a scour pad and fresh BKF. Outside burned marks can be cleaned with steel wool and BKF. You can also use it to clean the overspill on the stovetop.

Note: Do not use BKF on cast iron. It is best to use coarse sea salt with a little cooking oil and a paper towel.

Coolers and coffee mugs

When you are not camping, coolers can get very stale and even quite smelly. They can also get stained and look pretty nasty during the camping season. Use BKF and a soft brush or rag to clean the plastic surface of the cooler as well as insulated stainless steel coffee mugs.

Microwave ovens

The inside of your microwave oven can get some really caked-on food. It can be cleaned by using BKF on a wet sponge and scrubbing thoroughly. Make sure the microwave is unplugged and cool. It’s also great for the glass door and turntable.

Grills

Whether using your own portable grill or a stationary one at the campsite, it’s a good idea to clean it before and after using it. Start by firing up the grill to get it hot as this will help soften any baked-on “crud”. Use a grill scraper or crumpled up tin foil to knock off the big stuff, then sprinkle BKF on the grates and clean with the grill scraper. You can also clean the exterior with a paste, especially if it’s stainless steel.

Sporting equipment, tools, and furniture

Golf clubs, stained or moldy lawn chairs, fishing equipment, and even the patio rug can be cleaned with BKF and rinsed off. Don’t forget about kayaks, ebikes, and golf carts.

How not to use Bar Keepers Friend

Do not let Bar Keepers Friend sit on a surface too long. One minute is an average; otherwise, it might discolor a material.

Don’t mix BKF with any other cleaning product or chemical. Many other cleaning products are bleach-based, which can ruin some surfaces.

Bar Keepers Friend was never designed to be used dry. The original powder should always be mixed with water by either adding water to the powder and mixing it in, or wetting the surface to clean and then sprinkling it with BKF. BKF, like any powder, can be blown into the air and should never be inhaled.

Do not use BKF on non-stick pans as the non-stick coating of some products can be scratched off. Test in a small area on the side if you are not sure.

 You might also enjoy these posts from Dave 

Dave Solberg is a leading expert in the RV industry and the author of the “RV Handbook.”

Read more from Dave here. 

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How to wash and wax an RV, plus pro detailing tips

Video Editor
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How to wash and wax an RV, plus pro detailing tips

By Cheri Sicard
In today’s video, Andrew Steele from RVing with Andrew Steele is going to show us how to wash and wax an RV plus share some professional RV detailing tips.

Andrew not only shows you all the products he uses to keep his clients’ multi-million dollar bus RVs looking new, but he also shows you his entire process of how he uses them and what to do.

What’s involved in how to wash and wax an RV like Andrew does:

• A quick rinse with deionized water

• Apply degreaser to the wheels

• Use a foam cannon to apply soap and loosen the debris before scrubbing

• Lambswool wash mitts on a pole scrub the upper part of the RV clean

• Microfiber wash mitts do the rest of the job

Of course, Andrew does this for a living. He has an enormous amount of products and equipment. And he has tried just about everything on the market. So one of the most useful parts of the video is that he shares the ones he thinks are most important and why they have worked so well.

I also liked that he was conscious of cost versus quality. And he includes some tips that will be more practical for home consumers as opposed to professionals.

When it comes to detailing, Andrew covers his favorite tire dressings, buffing tools and polishing products. He even has a special product to remove bugs.

Using Andrew’s tips will result in a pristine RV at the end.

Here are the products he uses:

MORE ON RV CLEANING

RVT2671

The best camera system for your RV

Video Editor
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The best camera system for your RV

Many RV owners struggle to find a reliable way to see what’s behind their rig. According to Jared Gillis of All About RVs, the WOLFBOX G900 TriPro rearview camera system brings a smart answer to the RV backup camera dilemma. It looks like a regular rearview mirror, mounts right where you’re used to glancing, and offers crisp, high-quality views for safer towing. It’s sleek, easy to use, and takes up almost no extra space—a rare combination in the world of RV camera tech. Jared gives a demo in the video at the end of this post.

WOLFBOX G900 TriPro

When WOLFBOX first sent out the G900 Pro, the camera offered solid rear vision. But after feedback about the need for extra cameras for RVing, WOLFBOX created the G900 TriPro. Adding extra cameras gives RV owners a true sense of what’s behind them—beyond what most single-camera systems can deliver. For those pulling trailers, being able to see behind both the truck and the RV changes the towing experience.

The standard G900 TriPro system uses three cameras:

• Front dash camera (4K) for capturing everything ahead

• Rear window camera mounted inside the truck (2.5K) for a mirror-like view out the back

• RV rear camera (1080P) mounted all the way at the back of the trailer

The display replaces the usual rearview mirror, serving as both a screen and a familiar glance point. All three angles record at the same time directly to an SD card, giving users a full record of their trip—front, truck rear, and RV rear.

Choosing the WOLFBOX G900 TriPro over typical bulky RV screens offers key benefits:

• No big screens or tangled wires cluttering up the dashboard

• Eyes stay where they naturally go—right to the rearview mirror spot

• Clean and simple dash area with space for phone mounts, GPS, and other gear

• Easy integration with tire pressure monitors and navigation without extra hassle

WOLFBOX G900 TriPro RV backup camera features

• Touchscreen display allows users to slide and adjust vertical camera angles with a simple swipe.

• Ultra HD cameras: The 4K front camera sees more detail than a standard dashcam. The truck rear camera records in 2.5K, while the RV camera delivers sharp 1080P.

• Voice controls like “Lock video” or “Show front camera” make saving footage or switching views fast and hands-free.

• Customizable on-screen data lets users choose whether to see speed, direction, and time.

• Built-in Wi-Fi provides an easy way to transfer clips or change settings from a phone.

Mounting the system

This rearview display mounts in three simple ways:

• Replace the original mirror for a permanent, streamlined look.

• Strap onto the existing mirror using the included straps (ideal for users who only want it when towing).

• Windshield mount is an optional accessory, if preferred.

Running power, GPS, and camera wiring is straightforward. The slim wires tuck behind the interior trim with the included tool. Extra cable length coils away behind soundproofing for a tidy finish.

Setting up cameras to support a towable RV requires planning. In this setup:

• The truck’s back window and rear bumper each get cameras (for use with or without the RV attached).

• The RV’s rear camera connects via a separate cable, using the proper length for the combined vehicle and trailer.

• Cables run along the roofline and through the underbelly where possible, with tasks like removing vent covers or using fish tape kept minimal thanks to thin cables.

• Choosing the right cable type for the specific camera (2.5K or 1080P) avoids confusion later.

Experience shows that simple, direct wire runs save time and effort. One clever solution involves aviation waterproof connectors with four pins. These connectors make it easy to swap between the truck’s bumper camera (useful when not towing) and the RV’s rear camera. The plug, securely mounted in the truck bed near the 7-way trailer connection, lets owners unplug one camera and plug in another in seconds. Soldered connections hold up against rough road use and moisture. No menu changes or screen setup—just plug and play.

Reliable performance and everyday ease

With everything wired, this system offers strong performance with no dropped signals or lag—a common issue with wireless RV cameras. Shifting between views during trips is simple. Hooking or unhooking the RV adds just a few extra seconds. The final look is tidy: one screen in the mirror, no loose gadgets around the dash.

RELATED

• Benefits of using an RV backup camera

• A million Fords recalled for defective backup cameras

• Can I mount a backup camera on RV’s ladder?

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