Our Guide: How to Clean Your Motorhome or Campervan Windows Properly, and Undertake Small Repairs

Owning a motorhome or campervan is a proud business – and that means embracing your responsibility to keep the vehicle in the best possible condition so that you’ll get the most out of it. In some cases that also equates to safety. 

One of the most overlooked yet essential aspects of maintenance is taking care of the windows. Clean, well-maintained windows not only make your vehicle look better, but they also improve general ambiance within the living quarters and, of course, visibility while driving. Over time and use, dirt, grime and small scratches can accumulate on the windows, reducing clarity and making them that little bit harder to see through. 

With the right techniques and a bit of regular attention, you can restore your windows to near-perfect condition – and this edition of our blog tells you how! We’ll walk you through the best methods for cleaning motorhome and campervan windows, and we’ll offer some advice on handling small minor repairs to keep them in top condition.

Before you start cleaning and repairing windows, it’s useful to recognise the types commonly used in leisure vehicles. Most have acrylic windows rather than glass because acrylic is lightweight and resistant to shattering. Acrylic windows (sometimes referred to as Plexiglass) are durable and flexible, making them well-suited to cope with the movement and vibration that comes with life on the road. However, they’re also more prone to scratching and hazing than glass.

Campervans and some motorhomes (particularly older models or luxury vehicles) may have more traditional glass windows. Glass is certainly more resistant to scratches but can crack more easily under pressure, or if exposed to sudden temperature changes. Double-glazed units are also common in modern motorhomes and campervans, as they provide better insulation and noise reduction – however, they also introduce the further risk of condensation between panes should the seals start to fail.

Since acrylic windows are the most common found in motorhomes and campervans, the advice in our guide will focus primarily on maintaining and repairing those.

Cleaning your windows properly is important so that you maintain visibility and prevent any long-term damage from occurring. If your windows are left dirty for too long, there’s the likelihood that grime and debris become embedded in the surface of the acrylic. This inevitably leads to scratches and a dull appearance. Here are the steps you should take to clean your windows effectively and safely. 

• Cleaning products: Start by selecting the right products. Acrylic windows are sensitive to certain chemicals, so it’s extremely important to avoid products that contain ammonia, alcohol or abrasive ingredients. In particular, never use a glass cleaner on acrylic windows as many of them contain ammonia, which will cause the acrylic surface to cloud. These substances can also cause the acrylic to develop fine cracks over time. Use a mild, soapy solution instead – make it up from a few drops of washing-up liquid mixed with warm water – or a specialised acrylic window cleaner.

• Rinse: Before applying your cleaning solution, rinse the vehicle windows thoroughly with clean water. This will remove loose dirt and debris that could scratch the surface. A gentle flow of water from a hose is perfect, but if you don’t have access to one then using a bucket of water will work just as well. Don’t use a high-pressure washer – strong water jets can damage the seals around the windows and cause leaks.

• Solution and circling: Once you’ve rinsed the windows, apply the cleaning solution using a soft microfibre cloth or sponge. We recommend avoiding using paper towels or rough fabrics, as these can cause micro-scratches on the surface of the acrylic. Clean the window in circular motions, working from the top to the bottom so that you prevent streaking. Be gentle at all times – pressing down too hard can damage the surface of the window.

• Another rinse, and dry: After the cleaning stage, rinse the windows again with clean water to remove any remaining cleaning solution or soap. Use another soft microfibre cloth to pat the surface dry (cleaning your windows in direct sunlight, or allowing the windows to air-dry can lead to water spots and streaks). For a final touch, you could apply specialised acrylic polish or plastic restorer. These products will give the windows a glossy finish and help to protect them from damage in the future. Apply a small amount with a clean cloth and then buff in circular motions, until the surface is clear and smooth.

Even if you follow a regular and careful cleaning routine, it’s inevitable that your motorhome or campervan windows will develop minor issues over time. Cloudiness, small scratches and loose seals are all relatively common problems with vehicle windows. Most of these issues, fortunately, can be quite easily addressed with a few simple tools and techniques.

• Light scratches: These are particularly common on acrylic windows, especially if the wrong cleaning materials have been used in the past. To remove them, you need fine-grit sandpaper (starting with 1200 grit), a polishing compound and a soft cloth. Begin by cleaning the window to remove dirt or debris that might worsen scratching. Wet the sandpaper and very gently sand the scratched area using very light, circular motions. It’s really important to be patient and gentle when you’re working this stage. Too much pressure can make your problem worse. Following the sanding, rinse the area with clean water and dry thoroughly with a soft cloth. Next, apply a small amount of polishing compound or acrylic restorer to the scratched area and, using a clean cloth, buff the compound in circular motions until the scratch fades and the surface becomes clear. If the scratch remains visible, repeat the process using an even finer grit sandpaper (such as 1500 or 2000 grit) until you achieve a smooth finish.

• Clouding or hazing: Clouding or hazing on acrylic windows is most usually caused by exposure to UV (ultra-voilet) rays or using inappropriate and harsh cleaning solutions. To restore the clarity of your windows, you will need a plastic restorer. Begin by cleaning the window thoroughly, then apply the restorer with a soft cloth. Buff into the window using circular motions until the haze disappears and the surface becomes clear. To protect the window from future UV damage, apply a UV-resistant coating.

• Loose seals: Over time, the seals around motorhome and campervan windows can deteriorate or become loose, which can lead to drafts and water leaks. To fix this you’ll need a silicone-based sealant. Clean the edges of the window and remove any dirt or old sealant. Then mask off the surrounding area with tape and apply a thin bead of silicone sealant along the window seal. Smooth it out with your finger or a finishing tool, and allow it to cure for at least 24 hours before exposing it to water or heavy use.

• Double-glazing condensation: If you notice condensation between the panes of a double-glazed window in your motorhome or campervan, it’s likely the seal has failed. Some vehicle windows might have small black bungs that you can remove to let air flow through the gap, which will sometimes help to clear condensation. However, if the problem persists, you will need to consult a professional for a full resealing or even a replacement.

To keep your motorhome or campervan in good condition, window maintenance is essential on a regular basis. Clean them at least once a month to prevent the build-up of dirt and grime, apply a UV-resistant polish every few months to help protect from sun damage and hazing and check the window seals regularly. A great general tip is to park your motorhome in the shade or use window covers when it’s not in use, as these will help protect the windows from sustaining ‘environmental damage’. Bird droppings, tree sap and road debris can all cause staining and scratches, so regular cleaning is key.

By following the steps we’ve laid out in this edition of our blog, you can make sure that your windows stay in excellent condition, giving you a clear view of the road ahead and a much more aesthetically pleasant and comfortable living space. Visit the Lowdhams Accessory Shop to check out all of our window-associated products. 

See you on the road!