Markus Andrews

If the sun often gets in your eyes during your work commute or you just do lots of driving, a sun visor extender is a worthwhile purchase. The last thing you want is for your eyes to suffer long-term damage, and sometimes your car’s visor doesn’t provide enough protection.
That said, there are some factors to consider when buying a visor extender, so we’ll discuss those, break down some of the best products available today, and show you how to find the right one for your needs. Let’s get started!

What to Look for in a Sun Visor Extender
Deciding which sun visor extender to buy can be more difficult than you think as there are several qualities to look for. You’ll want to consider how long the extender will last, how user-friendly and feature-rich it is as well as how effectively it protects you from the sun and improves your visibility while driving. We’ve taken all of these factors into account when choosing the products on our list.
Durability
There’s no point buying a visor extender if it won’t last you very long. You’ll want one that won’t break easily and is made of a material like acrylic, polycarbonate or polyurethane. Also, look for a visor extender that’s impact, temperature, and/or scratch-resistant.
Usability
We’ll discuss each visor extender’s overall user-friendliness. A good car visor extender fits your windshield/window, is easy to install, won’t fall off easily, can be put away when not in use, and is adjustable. Basically, you should get one that’s easy to use and makes your drives more comfortable, not more frustrating.
Effectiveness
Does the sun visor extender improve your view of the road and keep your skin and eyes safe? That’s what we’ll determine with this section of each review. You’ll want an extender that’ll stop you from squinting while you’re driving and reduce your risk of long-term health problems caused by lengthy, frequent exposure to sunlight.
Sun Visor Extender Types
It may surprise you to learn that there are actually two varieties of sun visor extenders. Thankfully, they’re easy to tell apart.
Visor-Mounted
These extenders attach to your vehicle’s visor by velcro, straps or screws. They either extend downward, to the side or both. Most sun visor extenders are visor-mounted.
Window-Mounted
These extenders attach to your car’s passenger and driver-side windows. They can be removed, reused and adjusted as needed. Additionally, they come in various sizes so they can cover just the space at eye level or the entire window.
Now that you know what to look for, here are our picks for the top sun visor extenders in 2020. If you’re looking to keep the sun out of your car when you’re not driving, be sure to check out our guides for buying sun shades for your windshield as well as your side windows.

Top 10 Best Sun Visor Extenders 2020
1. Best Overall Pick: SAILEAD Polarized Sun Visor Extender

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Why we like it: The SAILEAD Polarized Sun Visor Extender is a great choice if you want an effective, user-friendly option at a reasonable price. Its polarized surface, adjustability and resistance to damage earn it the top spot on our list.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Visor-Mounted
Dimensions: 12.6” x 5.5”
As far as all-around sun visor extenders go, the SAILEAD Polarized can’t be beaten. Its polarized surface does a great job reducing glare and improving visual clarity. It’s also highly adjustable, so you can make sure it’s at your eye level at all times. Once you factor in its remarkable durability and fast, easy installation process, you’ve got our top pick.
Durability
The SAILEAD Polarized Extender is built to last thanks to its polycarbonate construction. It ranks highly for its impact, temperature, and scratch-resistance, so it’ll serve you just as well in extreme winter and summer climates as it will during more moderate weather periods. You also won’t have to worry about delicately handling it all the time.
Usability
This extender is incredibly user-friendly due to its adjustability and easy installation. You can rotate it 360-degrees and change its distance from you by using the slider on the spring loader. Altering the extender’s orientation to match your eye level is a breeze. You can even install it with just one hand and fold it up out of view when you don’t need it.
Unfortunately, the SAILEAD Polarized Extender is only compatible with visors 5.1-8.2” wide, so fitting them onto larger visors can be an issue. The screen also has trouble staying in place during bumpy rides, meaning you might have to readjust it sometimes.
Effectiveness
The SAILEAD Polarized Extender knocks it out of the park here. As its name suggests, it has a polarized surface that blocks glare and improves visual clarity. You won’t have to squint or cover your eyes when you’re driving toward the sun or when light glares off of other cars’ bumpers, windows or headlights. It also blocks UV rays up to 100%, which will protect your eyes and skin over the long term.

Pros
Reduces glare and blocks UV rays effectively
Impact/temperature/scratch resistant
Easy installation
360-degree adjustable

Cons
Hard to fit on larger car visors
Screen can be flimsy, especially on bumpy roads

2. Best Premium Pick: Glare Guard Polarized Car Visor Extender

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Why we like it: If you don’t mind spending a few extra bucks, the Glare Guard Polarized Car Visor Extender is the way to go. Between its added accessories and ability to block glare and UV rays, you’ve got a winning product.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Visor-Mounted
Dimensions: 14” x 3.25”
For those willing to drop some extra money to have the highest-quality sun visor extender, the Glare Guard Polarized is the only real option. Its high-quality polarized surface protects you from glare and UV rays. Between the extender’s great screen, its easy installation process, and the accessories that come with it, you have another top-tier choice. Its only serious drawback are its hinges as the screws in them can easily loosen and cause the extender to swing.
Durability
The Glare Guard Polarized Extender has its strengths and weaknesses here. On one hand, it’s made to be impact, temperature and scratch-resistant so it lasts longer. On the other hand, the hinge screws can sometimes loosen on their own, which makes the visor extender swing while you drive. The plastic pieces that attach the visor to the hinge are also weak, particularly at hot temperatures. One way to get around this is to carefully apply glue to the screws. However, in the worst-case scenario, the hinges can break entirely.
If you’d like a sun visor extender without these hinge problems that’s also impact, temperature and scratch resistant, consider the SAILEAD Polycarbonate.
Usability
Installing this visor extender takes less than a minute. Just clip it to your car’s built-in visor and attach the Velcro straps that come with it. Every purchase of this product also gives you a microfiber cleaning cloth and an instruction sheet.
Effectiveness
The Glare Guard Polarized Extender is made of a high-quality polarized film that blocks glare and up to 100% of UVA and UVB rays, so you can see more easily while driving and rest assured that your eyes and skin are protected. It provides this safety without excessively darkening your view, and the acrylic material in the visor keeps everything you see clear.

Pros
Easily blocks UVA/UVB rays and glare
Comes with accessories
Easy installation

Cons
Screws in the hinges can easily come loose
Plastic hinge pieces are sometimes weak

3. Best Budget Pick: SAILEAD Sunshade Extender

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Why we like it: If you want to get the sun out of your eyes and you’re on a budget, the SAILEAD Sunshade Extender is the choice for you. It gets the job done and is built to last.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Visor-Mounted
Dimensions: 12.2-21.6” x 5.1-8.2”
The SAILEAD Sunshade Extender offers a solid alternative to those who don’t want to break the bank on a sun visor extender. Like other visor extenders, it blocks glare and UV rays. It offers fast, easy installation and fits all built-in car visors wider than 4.7”. Its side and bottom panels can be adjusted at any time to suit your needs.
The downside is that the extender can weigh your car’s built-in visor down over time as it’s heavier than some other options. The side panel can also get in the way of the rearview mirror when it’s fully extended.
Durability
The SAILEAD Sunshade Extender is surprisingly durable given its low price. It should last you for at least a year thanks to its polyurethane and polycarbonate construction.
Usability
Making the SAILEAD Sunshade Extender attach comfortably likely won’t be an issue since it fits any car visor wider than 4.7”. It’s also easy to install and comes with instructions to do so.
The extender’s elastic straps help it fit snugly to your car’s built-in visor most of the time, though the product’s weight can cause problems. You may need to tighten the straps after some use or the extender can start to sag and drag the built-in visor down over time.
If you’re interested in an extender with adjustable side and bottom panels that won’t weigh your car’s built-in visor down, take a look at the TFY Car Visor.
Effectiveness
This visor extender does a great job blocking glare and UV rays, and you can adjust its bottom and side panels any time. The only real disadvantage to the adjustable panels is that the side visor can partially block the rearview mirror, especially if it’s fully extended.

Pros
Great durability for such a low price
Fits most car visors easily
Adjustable side and bottom panels

Cons
Side panel can block rear view mirror, especially if fully extended
Heavy weight can make car visor sag over time if the extender isn’t properly secured

4. Best Window-Mounted: TuckVisor BLACKOUT Side Window Visor

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Why we like it: If sunlight shining through your driver or passenger-side window frequently bothers you, there’s no better solution than the TuckVisor BLACKOUT Side Window Visor. Its simple, effective design and ease of use make it the best window-mounted sun visor extender available today.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Window-Mounted
Dimensions: 18” x 7.5”
Most sun visor extenders attach to a car’s built-in visor, but the TuckVisor offers a great alternative for those who want a window-mounted option. You just have to tuck it between the window and the trim, and you’re done. No installation is required, and you can remove or adjust it whenever you want. Better yet, it fits 90% of all vehicles and is made to last for years.
The only real downside is you may have to get used to seeing it in your peripheral vision while you drive.
Durability
The TuckVisor is made of opaque, thin, semi-rigid material and is made to last a lifetime. There have been no major issues reported regarding the product’s durability, so you won’t have to worry about buying a replacement for a long time.
Usability
User-friendliness is one of the TuckVisor’s greatest advantages. Unlike with some other visor supplements, you won’t have to worry about compatibility since it’s made to fit typically shaped vehicle windows. If your side window’s shape is different from that of other vehicles, you can use scissors to make any necessary alterations to the TuckVisor so it fits.
Just tuck it between the window and the trim while pressing it flat against the surface. You can move it around the top of your window and take it down as needed. You may need to remove it when you roll down the window.
Effectiveness
The TuckVisor blocks sunlight, heat and harmful UV rays with ease. It’s a great choice if you’re often irritated by sunlight that shines in your driver or passenger-side window just past the edge of your car’s built-in visor. However, you’ll have to get used to seeing it in your peripheral vision.

Pros
No installation required
Can be moved around the top of the window or removed as needed
Great at protecting against sun, heat and UV rays coming in from side windows

Cons
Could be distracting having it in your peripheral vision
Must be removed when you roll down the window

5. Best Polycarbonate Lens: SAILEAD Polycarbonate

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Why we like it: Coming from a trusted brand, the SAILEAD Polycarbonate is another excellent all-around sun visor extender. While it’s one of the more expensive choices on this list, it justifies its price by providing strong performance in each metric.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Visor-Mounted
Dimensions: 12.2-21.6” x 5.1-8.2”
The SAILEAD Polycarbonate shares many of the same great qualities as its manufacturer’s other products. These features include the polarized surface that fights glare and blocks UVA and UVB rays, its easy installation and resistance to impacts, scratches and extreme temperatures. It even fits nicely above your car’s visor when it’s not in use.
Durability
As its name suggests, this sun visor extender is made out of polycarbonate, so it’s built to last. It’s also impact, temperature and scratch-resistant, so you don’t have to worry too much about damaging it.
Usability
Like other SAILEAD products, the SAILEAD Polycarbonate takes little time or effort to install. It’s compatible with most cars, and the Velcro straps provide a strong grip for the extender. Finally, it fits nicely above the visor when you fold it up, meaning storage isn’t a concern.
The SAILEAD Polycarbonate’s only notable weakness in this area is that the velcro on the straps sometimes isn’t enough to give it the best fit on smaller visors.
Effectiveness
The extender’s polarized surface does a great job blocking glare and UVA/UVB rays while giving you a clear view of the road ahead. There’s also no gap between your car’s built-in visor and the extender, so you don’t have to worry about any beams of sunlight poking through and making you squint.

Pros
Polycarbonate construction grants durability
Blocks glare and UVA/UVB rays
Easy to store above visor when not in use

Cons
A bit hard to fit on smaller car visors

6. Best Basic Sun Visor Extender: Trillium Worldwide Sun Shield

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Why we like it: The Trillium Worldwide Sun Shield is another solid budget option. It’s sturdy, easy to install and store when not in use, and keeps you safe from UVA and UVB rays. Best of all, it’s the cheapest option on our list!
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Visor-Mounted
Dimensions: 11.75” x 4”
If saving money is your primary concern but you still want a reliable sun visor extender, then consider the Trillium Worldwide Sun Shield. Its durable polycarbonate screen blocks glare and over 90% of UVA and UVB rays. Plus, installation takes only seconds and you can easily fit it above your car’s built-in visor when it’s not in use.
On the other hand, the extender’s clips can seriously dig into your car’s built-in visor over time and leave deep marks. Additionally, the hinges can break from excessive stress. If you’d like an effective, easy-to-install visor without these issues, take a look at the SAILEAD Polycarbonate.
Durability
The Sun Shield’s shatterproof, polycarbonate screen scores it some points in this category, but the hinges have been known to break under stress. Make sure you don’t use too much force when adjusting the extender.
Usability
Installing the Sun Shield is simple: just clip it onto your car visor. It fits nicely above the visor when not in use, so storage isn’t an issue. The clips maintain a strong, secure grip on the visor which prevents it from moving, sagging, or falling off during bumpy drives. Unfortunately, the clips’ strength can also be a drawback since they can dig into your car visor and leave marks behind.
Effectiveness
The Sun Shield’s anti-glare screen keeps you safe from incoming sunlight and blocks over 90% of UVA and UVB rays. Just make sure that you can see clearly through it once you set it up.

Pros
Installation takes seconds
Blocks glare and UVA/UVB rays
Stays in place during bumpy rides

Cons
Clips can cut into your car’s built-in visor
Hinges can break easily

7. Easy to Install: TFY Sunshade Extender

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Why we like it: With the TFY Sunshade Extender, the price you pay matches the value you receive in return. It’s on the lower end of the price range for this guide, but it still gets the job done.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Visor-Mounted
Dimensions: 12.2-19.29” x 5.12-7.68”
If aesthetics aren’t one of your concerns and you only care about a car visor extender’s functionality, then the TFY Sunshade Extender is a good choice. It’ll protect you from glare and UV rays like other extenders will, and installation is fast and easy.
The product’s downsides are that it isn’t the prettiest choice, and sometimes it can get worn down quickly. The sliding panels sometimes aren’t that easy to manage either, so you should get them in the position you want before you start driving. The SAILEAD Sunshade Extender is a better choice if you want a product with more durability and larger sliding panels.
Durability
The TFY Sunshade Extender has a joint polyurethane/polycarbonate build, but its edges do show noticeable wear over time. You won’t have to worry about buying a replacement too soon after purchasing this extender, but it’s also not the most durable option.
Usability
Installing the extender is simple, and it fits snugly above the car visor when it’s folded up. Just make sure you adjust the side and bottom panels so they’re where you want them before you start driving since they can be hard to manipulate and you always want your eyes on the road.
Effectiveness
The TFY Sunshade Extender does a great job blocking UV rays and sun glare so you can drive without distractions. Its bottom and side panels don’t extend as far as those of comparable products, however.

Pros
Quick installation, no tools required
Blocks glare and UV rays
Fits above car’s built-in visor when not in use

Cons
Not the most aesthetically pleasing choice
The material chips away easily
Bottom and side panels are shorter than the ones on other sun visor extenders

8. Best Two-Panel Sun Visor Extender: Lebogner Sun Visor

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Why we like it: If you’re on a budget and are willing to try something different, the Lebogner Sun Visor is the choice for you. It blocks glare and UV rays like other extenders do, but it offers an unconventional two-panel design.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Visor-Mounted
Dimensions: 11.75” x 5.25”
In addition to holding a place as the final budget option on our list, the Lebogner Sun Visor has a design unlike most other extenders. It has two anti-glare panels, a grey one for daytime use and a yellow one for nighttime use. The panels block more than 90% of UV rays, and installation couldn’t be simpler! Just clip the Lebogner onto your car visor.
On the other hand, the Lebogner’s distinctive composition does have its drawbacks. Whenever you want to use one panel, you have to move the other one out of the way, which can be somewhat inconvenient. The grey visor also isn’t as effective as other visors at blocking glare during the day.
Durability
The Lebogner is made with longevity in mind, boasting a construction of shatterproof material that’s intended to last for years.
Usability
The extender is compatible with most vehicles due to its simple installation. You just clip the Lebogner to your car’s visor and you’re ready to go!
The downside is that dealing with two panels all the time can be difficult since you have to make sure that whenever you use one panel, the other isn’t in the way. You might have to remove one of the panels sometimes to make the Lebogner easier to handle. Alternatively, you could take it down and flip it over. The extender also doesn’t come with instructions on how to address these issues.
Effectiveness
Both of the Lebogner’s panels block over 90% of UV rays and are made to reduce glare. Unfortunately, the grey panel meant for daytime use isn’t as glare resistant as it could be, so you might have to wear sunglasses while driving on sunny days.

Pros
Easy installation and compatible with most vehicles
Shatterproof material enhances durability
Blocks over 90% of UV rays

Cons
Doesn’t come with instructions
Grey panel (the one used during the day) isn’t as effective as it could be
Can be awkward to always manage two panels

9. Best 2-Pack: TFY Car Visor

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Why we like it: The TFY Car Visor is our final product on this list that offers good all-around performance in our ratings. Plus, you get two visor extenders with this purchase, so you don’t have to worry about getting your money’s worth!
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Visor-Mounted
Dimensions: 12.2-19.29” x 5.12-7.68”
The TFY Car Visor shares many of the same strengths as the other TFY product on our list, the TFY Sunshade Extender, as well as some of its weaknesses. It offers an easy, no-tools-required installation and effectively blocks glare and UV rays. It also tucks nicely away above the visor when it’s not being used.
On the downside, the polycarbonate sliders can be difficult to push and pull. You’ll have to manipulate them slowly and gently so that they don’t get stuck, so you should get the extender set up the way you want before you start driving. Like the other TFY product we’ve discussed, the TFY Car Visor isn’t all that good-looking either.
Durability
The TFY Car Visor is made of polyurethane and has polycarbonate sliders. Like its fellow TFY products, it’ll last you for a while, but there are more durable options available.
Usability
The TFY Car Visor is mostly user-friendly with its no-tools-required installation process and ability to fit above your car’s built-in visor when you’re not using it. The extender’s only significant disadvantage in this category is that it can be hard to move the sliders in and out as they might get stuck. You’ll want to set the extender up before you start driving.
Effectiveness
The extender is great at blocking glare and UV rays, so you can count on it to make your drives safer and less stressful.

Pros
Fast, easy installation
Easy to store when not in use
Blocks glare and UV rays

Cons
Sliders can be frustrating to extend and retract
Not the prettiest sun visor extender

10. Best for Nighttime: Eyes Security Sun Visor Extender

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Why we like it: The Eyes Security Sun Visor Extender is another nice 2-in-1 option, providing a gray shield for daytime use and a yellow shield for nighttime use. Its simple installation and wide compatibility range earn it a spot on our list.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Visor-Mounted
Dimensions: 12.7” x 4.7”
Rounding off our list is one last mid-range option, the Eyes Security Sun Visor Extender. It has two screens, one dark gray shield meant for daytime use and one yellow shield meant for nighttime use. The gray shield blocks 97.4% of UV rays and resists glare. The installation process is simple since you just clip the extender onto the car’s built-in visor. The adjustable clip also provides a sizable compatibility range for the product as well.
On the other hand, the daytime shield often isn’t as strong as it should be, possibly because the material for both shields is pretty thin. You should also exercise caution when using the product since the shields can easily get scratched or cracked.
Durability
The Eyes Security Sun Visor Extender has a joint polypropylene and thermoplastic rubber composition, and it’s heat-resistant. The problem is that the screens are easy to crack or scratch, so be careful when you adjust the extender or bring anything near it.
Usability
The installation process is quite easy: just clip the extender onto your car’s built-in visor. The clip’s adjustment range of 4.5-7.5” grants it compatibility with most vehicles. Unfortunately, the product doesn’t come with any instructions, so finding solutions to any problems you encounter with the product’s use can be difficult.
Effectiveness
The dark gray shield has its pluses and minuses. It blocks 97.4% of UV light, but it also isn’t as good at blocking sunlight and glare as other extenders on our list. The yellow night shield is great at reducing glare from streetlights and headlights, however.

Pros
Great at blocking UV rays
Wide compatibility range
Easy installation

Cons
No instructions provided
Screens can get scratched and/or cracked easily
Gray daytime visor not as effective as it could be

Your Guide to Sun Visor Extenders

A good sun visor extender can make your car trips much more comfortable and safe, which is why it’s a shame that so many drivers choose to go without them and suffer from the harsh sun. Read on for a discussion about the benefits a sun visor extender can provide as well as some suggestions on how to find the best one for your needs.
Sun Visor Extenders Help Keep You Healthy and Comfortable
Let’s face it: having the sun in your eyes during your daily work commute is the worst. Not only is it annoying, but it’s unsafe and harmful to your eyes and skin in the long term.
For one thing, bright sunlight and glare can obstruct your view of the road, which increases your risk of getting into an accident. Additionally, long-term overexposure to UV rays from the sun presents serious health risks, which we’ll discuss in more detail shortly.
Luckily, many of the products we talked about on our list can reduce glare and block UV rays, like the SAILEAD Polarized Sun Visor Extender or the Glare Guard Polarized Car Visor Extender, among others.
Sun visor extenders also reduce eye strain since you won’t have to squint and stare so intently when the sun is facing you. Not to mention, being able to clearly see the road at all times makes driving less stressful. Any way you look at it, sun visor extenders are a worthwhile investment.
How to Find the Right Sun Visor Extender for You
The first step to determining which extender you should buy is to choose between window-mounted and visor-mounted.
If the sun is usually off to one side during your drives, then choose a window-mounted extender like the TuckVisor BLACKOUT Side Window Visor. If the sun is front of you even some of the time, you should get a visor-mounted extender since they can alternate between covering the windshield or side window.
For visor-mounted extenders, you have to choose whether you want an option with a size-adjustable screen and if you want it to be transparent or opaque.
Usually, non-adjustable extenders are transparent, and they’re a good choice if they’re large enough to cover the area you need. The first two choices on our list fit these requirements as do the Lebogner Sun Visor and the Eyes Security Sun Visor Extender.
On the other hand, size-adjustable extenders tend to be opaque. As long as you can still see the road while using them, they’re a great choice, especially since you can alter the area they cover as needed. The SAILEAD Sunshade Extender is a fine example. The SAILEAD Polycarbonate is an exception to this trend as the bottom slider is transparent, so you can get the benefits of an adjustable visor extender while maintaining a clear view of the road.
FAQ
What Are UV Rays and Why Are They Bad?
Ultraviolet (UV) rays are a product of ultraviolet radiation, which is a form of electromagnetic radiation produced by the sun and a variety of human-made devices. While UV rays do have some health benefits, such as helping the human body produce Vitamin D, they pose several severe health risks.
Most notably, overexposure to UV rays can increase your risk of skin cancer, whether they came from the sun or a human-made source like tanning beds/booths. Other possible health issues include sunburn, premature skin aging, impaired vision, and a weakened immune system.
If you want to know more about UV rays, you can see what the CDC has to say. For a specific discussion on the health risks they pose, check out this article.
What’s the Difference Between UVA and UVB Rays?
You may have noticed throughout this guide that we sometimes made the distinction between UVA and UVB rays, and you might wonder what distinguishes them from each other. The differences between the two types of rays are shown in how much energy they have and how much of a health risk they present.
UVA rays have less energy than UVB rays, but they represent most of the UV radiation on Earth since they’re not absorbed by the ozone layer. UVB rays are stronger and present a more immediate health threat since they cause sunburns and most skin cancers. Thankfully, the ozone layer absorbs most UVB radiation, but some does reach Earth’s surface.
There’s also UVC rays, but the ozone layer blocks them from approaching Earth’s surface at all, so you only need to worry about those coming from human-made sources of UV radiation.
Given that you’re far more likely to encounter UVA and UVB rays, it’s important that you seek out a sun visor extender that’s made to block them.
What Are the Benefits of Polarized Film/Lenses?
Polarized film/lenses serve to reduce sun glare, improve visual clarity and reduce their user’s eye strain. They’re chemically treated to stop some light from passing through them, which means everything you see looks darker, crisper and more detailed. As a result, your eyes are less tired after hours of staring at surfaces that produce glare like car windows or bumpers.
However, there are situations when polarized film/lenses shouldn’t be used. They make it harder for you to see LCD screens like cell phones, ATMs and dashboard controls. You also shouldn’t use them at night or in other low-light situations since polarized lenses already darken your vision somewhat.
For more information, read the AAO’s post on the topic. You can also read this article which discusses how they differ from UV-protected lenses and offers some alternatives to polarized lenses.
Don’t Let the Sun Bother You Anymore
Driving with the sun constantly in your eyes can be unpleasant and, in the long term, harmful. Luckily, there are lots of great sun visor extenders available that help make your drives safer and more comfortable. You just have to find one that works for you. Drive safe! More

There is nothing quite like the heart pounding feeling of a good car audio system blasting the bass as you drive down the street. While the sound systems included in vehicles have improved significantly over the years, a stock audio system is simply not enough for people who want to truly feel every beat of their favorite music. To accomplish this goal, you need to install powerful subwoofers.
While subwoofers for your car audio system can come in sizes typically ranging from 8’’ to 15’’, the 10’’ option offers an ideal combination of powerful bass while maintaining clarity at all levels. As any audiophile can tell you, there are many things that will impact the overall sound of your car audio system. Keep reading for our top picks for subwoofers in 2020.

Essential Information for Choosing 10’’ Subwoofers
When shopping for subwoofers of any type, you will see a lot of different specs that you need to compare. Understanding each of the following factors will help you make the right decision.
Power Handling
The amount of power that your subwoofer can handle is one of the most important things to check. This will be listed in watts and will generally be rated by two separate numbers. Most speaker companies market their equipment based on the max power they can handle. While important, the max power capacity of a speaker rarely actually comes into play while in use. The truly important number is the RMS rating, which is the amount of continuous power that a subwoofer can handle without distortion.
Enclosure Options
Subwoofers need to be mounted in a case, or box, before being used. The specific box that is used will have a significant impact on how it sounds and where it can be placed in your vehicle. Some subwoofers come already mounted from the factory, and others will need to have the mounting box purchased separately and then secured into it.
While a subwoofer can technically be used with no box, it will not sound nearly as good and it will be very vulnerable to damage. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that you avoid doing this. Our full buyer’s guide below has a section on the various Types of Enclosures available. Make sure to check it out to get the right one.
Voice Coils
You will have the option for either a single voice coil (SVC) subwoofer, or a dual voice coil (DVC). This refers to the number of inputs available for you to wire to the amp. While technically speaking a DVC subwoofer is better, it may not always be worth the extra expense. If you are going to be purchasing just one subwoofer for your sound system, an SVC model will be just fine in almost all cases. When using two or more subwoofers, the added expense of a DVC is worth it.
Taking the time to pick out the right subwoofers based on your budget, the type of music you enjoy, and how hard hitting you want the bass to be will get you great results. Below you will find the top ten 10’’ subwoofers available today. Read through each one to find the option that will best meet your needs.

Top 10 Best 10 Inch Subwoofers 2020
1. Best Overall Pick: Rockford Fosgate R2D4 Prime

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Why we like it: This speaker delivers deep, powerful bass that is crystal clear. It is an exceptional subwoofer for a very reasonable price.
Editor’s Rating:

Specs:
Power Handling: 250 Watt RMS, 500 Watt Max
Voice Coils: Dual Voice Coils
In the world of car audio, there are few names as iconic as Rockford Fosgate. They have been making incredible subwoofers for many years, and this is a great example. The R2D4 subwoofer is the choice of many car audio enthusiasts. It delivers extraordinarily deep bass when you want that hard hitting sound, but can also deliver the clarity you need no matter what type of music you are listening to. Perhaps most importantly, this is a very reliable subwoofer that will provide you with the sound you want for years to come.
With 250-watt RMS and 500-watt max power, this is not the most powerful subwoofer on the list. This means you are not going to get the ear-splitting volume out of this option. Instead, you will get a superb balance of volume, ‘punch’, and clarity.
If you are simply looking to push the power to the max, consider the Planet Audio AC10D subwoofer, which boasts a 1500 watt max power level. If you want added volume without sacrificing on audio clarity, we recommend installing two of these subwoofers. You won’t be disappointed.

Pros
Perfect balance of hard-hitting bass and audio clarity
Made by the iconic Rockford Fosgate company
Dual voice coils

Cons
Relatively low power handling

2. Best Premium Pick: Skar Audio VD-10 D2

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Why we like it: This is a workhorse of a subwoofer that can provide you with endless hours of strong, clear bass.
Editor’s Rating:

Specs:
Power Handling: 500 Watt RMS, 800 Watt Max
Voice Coils: Dual Voice Coils
This subwoofer from Skar Audio is made from very durable materials and can stand up to a ton of abuse. While it may not break any records in any specific area, it will absolutely rattle your windows every time you turn on your system and crank the volume.
One thing you might notice is that the RMS is well over half of the max watt for power handling. This is a great example of just how durable this sub really is. It can perform for hours on end at higher power levels than most other subs are rated for, which is exactly what many people will want.
Another great benefit of this sub is that it is a shallow mount model, which means you can install it in an enclosure that is quite a bit thinner than many other options. This provides you with additional options for placement and configuration. As a dual voice coil sub you will likely want to install two of these in one vehicle to get the best sound possible. Overall, there is a ton to love about this subwoofer and very little to be disappointed in.

Pros
Very high RMS compared to max power limits
Shallow mount subwoofer
Extremely durable

Cons
Does not outperform other top subs in any areas

3. Best Pre-Mounted: Kicker 10” Vented Thin Profile Subwoofer

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Why we like it: This woofer comes pre-mounted in a thin profile enclosure, allowing it to fit easily under or behind a seat and it is also very easy to install.
Editor’s Rating:

Specs:
Power Handling: 300 Watt RMS, 600 Watt Max
Voice Coils: Single Voice Coil
The Kicker brand of subwoofers lives up to its name in that when the bass hits, you really feel like you are getting kicked in the chest, which is exactly what you want. This particular model can handle plenty of power to give you the volume and punch you desire.
While most people purchasing this subwoofer will primarily be listening to bass heavy music, the sound clarity is absolutely good enough to compliment any genre of music that you enjoy.
What really sets this option apart from many others is the fact that it comes pre-mounted in a low-profile enclosure. It can fit easily behind the seats in just about any vehicle, or flush against the trunk wall if you prefer. Depending on the type of vehicle you drive, you could even slide it under your driver’s seat so you can really feel it every time the bass hits. Installing this sub under or behind the driver’s seat is a great option, though it will produce an uneven sound for other passengers.
To have balanced audio throughout the vehicle you will either want to mount it in the center of the trunk or install two subwoofers. If you are going with two subs, you should consider an option that has dual voice coils, such as the Rockford Fosgate R2D4.

Pros
Pre-mounted in a low-profile enclosure
Excellent sound quality
Able to produce sharp, pounding bass

Cons
Single voice coil

4. Best All-in-One: Rockville RW10CA Slim Subwoofer

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Why we like it: This subwoofer is enclosed in a case that also comes with its own amplifier.
Editor’s Rating:

Specs:
Power Handling: 200 Watt RMS, 800 Watt Max
Voice Coils: Single Voice Coil
If you want to add strong bass to your car audio system, but you do not want to have to go through a complex installation process, this is a great option for you. The Rockville RW10CA is another pre-mounted subwoofer, but this one comes with an extra bonus. Within the enclosure is a built-in amplifier that serves to provide the sub with the steady stream of power that it needs. With most other subwoofers, you need to buy the amp separately. Surprisingly, this has not resulted in the price rising significantly.
While this subwoofer boasts an 800-watt max power limit, the RWS limit is only 200. This would be more of a concern if you were using a separate amplifier, but since the built-in model is made specifically for this speaker, it is fine.
This actual audio quality on this subwoofer is not as crisp as you will find on other options such as the JL Audio 10W3v3, but it will be a huge upgrade compared to any stock system. If you are like the vast majority of people and not looking to win any car audio competitions or an audiophile with perfect pitch, this subwoofer is an ideal option at an excellent price.

Pros
Amplifier included in the enclosure
Very slim enclosure ideal for under-seat installation
Easy installation

Cons
Low RMS compared to max power

5. Best Budget Pick: BOSS Audio CXX Car Subwoofer

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Why we like it: Simply put, the price. We were shocked at just how inexpensive this model is while still producing very respectable bass levels.
Editor’s Rating:

Specs:
Power Handling: 400 Watt RMS | 800 Watt Max
Voice Coils: Single Voice Coil
When most people talk about car audio in general and subwoofers specifically, they discuss how to get the most powerful bass or the clearest overall audio. The fact is, however, for many people, these things just aren’t that important.
In many cases, the goal is to get a big upgrade to their vehicle’s stock system without spending a huge amount of money. If that is what you are looking for, it will be hard to find a better option than this.
The BOSS Audio CXX subwoofer will dramatically out-perform the stock audio systems in all but the very highest end of vehicles. The sound quality is very respectable, and you will get a bass hit that is unmistakable.
Sure, you aren’t going to get the precision or punch that you would find on something like the Rockford Fosgate R2D4, but you will love the upgrade none the less. Not only are these subs very inexpensive, but they can easily be powered by a smaller amplifier, which will save you even more.

Pros
Very inexpensive
Significant improvement over stock speakers
Can be run on a low-cost amplifier

Cons
Cannot handle huge amounts of power
Does not hit as hard as other subwoofers

6. Most Powerful: Planet Audio AC10D 1500-Watt Subwoofer

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Why we like it: This is a true powerhouse, boasting a 1500 watt max power that pushes out incredible volume for a 10’’ subwoofer.
Editor’s Rating:

Specs:
Power Handling: 750 Watt RMS, 1500 Watt Max
Voice Coils: Dual Voice Coil
If you love those sideways glances that you see from the vehicles next to you (or even across the road) because your bass is pounding, this subwoofer is a great option. It is one of the most powerful subs you will find before having to move up to a 12’’ or 15’’ model.
Despite the huge power capacity, the price on these subwoofers is still very inexpensive. Just keep in mind, however, that if you want to get the full performance out of these subs, you will need a powerful amplifier installed as well, which will bump your total price up quite a bit.
As a dual voice coil subwoofer, you should purchase two of these subwoofers and have them enclosed into a single box. We recommend installing them into a box that is ported with the subs clearly displayed when you open the trunk. This is because this model uses a flexible foam material that has great excursion, meaning the speaker moves more than other models, which looks really impressive when showing them off.
While there is a lot to love about this sub, it is no surprise that a low-cost model that can take this much power is not going to have perfect sound quality. Don’t worry, the sheer volume and punch of the bass will more than compensate.

Pros
Can handle huge amounts of power
Great excursion for visibly appealing display
Surprisingly affordable

Cons
Sound quality is somewhat lacking

7. Best Audio Quality: JL Audio 10W3v3

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Why we like it: One of the best sounding subwoofers on the market today.
Editor’s Rating:

Specs:
Power Handling: 250 Watt RMS, 500 Watt Max
Voice Coils: Single Voice Coil
There is no doubt that the JL Audio brand makes exceptional equipment, and this model in particular will give you some of the cleanest, most heart pounding bass you will find anywhere. On top of having incredibly crisp and clear sound quality, this sub is also visually appealing. If you install it in a great enclosure, your vehicle’s audio system will look as sleek as it sounds.
The one big problem with this subwoofer is the price. It costs far more than other subs on this list, and the extra expense just isn’t justified. If you are Bill Gates and money is truly no object, you may as well move up to larger subwoofers at a premium level. If you are in any way worried about cost, this model is just too much. Anyone who absolutely has to have a 10’’ subwoofer and doesn’t care about money, however, will be very happy with this model.

Pros
Truly premium quality sound
Made from excellent materials
Will produce window rattling bass without distortion

Cons
Very expensive

8. Best Kit With Two Subwoofers: Belva 1000-Watt Complete Car Subwoofer Setup

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Why we like it: This kit includes everything you need to setup a full dual subwoofer audio system in your vehicle.
Editor’s Rating:

Specs:
Power Handling: 500 Watt RMS, 1000 Watt Max
Voice Coils: Single Voice Coil
This is another all-in-one kit that includes everything you need to get your car audio system bumping. The big perk of choosing this one is that it comes with two 10’’ subwoofers installed in an attractive ported box. It also comes with the amplifier, so you do not need to purchase it separately. If you are looking for a simple upgrade to your car audio system, you won’t find anything that is much easier than this model.
If you are looking for premium quality and precision bass, these subs likely aren’t the right option for you. Instead, consider piecing together your own system using higher end subs such as the Rockford Fosgate R2D4. If you just want a good overall system that is easy to use, however, the Belva system will more than suffice.
This system even comes with a remote bass control that you can mount on your dash or near your seat to get precision control of your system, which is a great feature. If you do go with this system, let us recommend that you purchase some audio wiring rather than using the included wires, which aren’t of the best quality. This will give you an improved power flow, which translates to better sound.

Pros
Comes with everything you need
An easy and affordable way to upgrade your car audio system
Very attractive setup

Cons
Lower quality sound
Should buy better wires for installation

9. Most Durable: BOSS Audio Systems Elite BE10D

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Why we like it: Great well-rounded subwoofer that can handle lots of power.
Editor’s Rating:

Specs:
Power Handling: 400 Watt RMS, 800 Watt Max
Voice Coils: Dual Voice Coils
This is another nice subwoofer from BOSS Audio Systems. The main difference between this one and the BOSS Audio Systems CXX10 model is that this one has dual voice coils and the other is a single. Of course, the DVC option is going to be more expensive, and you should generally purchase them in pairs to get the full advantage. The quality of this subwoofer is quite high, though certainly not a premium option.
If you are looking to upgrade your current system and want to add a couple of good quality subs that can handle plenty of power, you will likely be very happy with this model. The bass produced by these subs is deep and strong, but not quite as clear as you will find on some of the higher-end options. While these speakers won’t be damaged when you turn the volume way up and hit the bass, there will be some noticeable distortion. If you just plan on listening to your music at reasonable (though still very loud) volumes, the sound quality is more than sufficient.

Pros
Can handle up to 800 watts of power
Affordable dual voice coil subwoofer
Made of durable materials

Cons
Some bass distortion at max volume

10. Best Stock Replacement: Studio Pro 10’’ Car Subwoofer

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Why we like it: Very inexpensive subwoofer that will serve as a good replacement for stock systems.
Editor’s Rating:

Specs:
Power Handling: 150 Watt RMS, 300 Watt Max
Voice Coils: Single Voice Coil
This is a low-cost subwoofer that can be used to replace the stock subs that you have in your vehicle’s system. While you will need to look at the specs of your vehicle, you likely will not need to have an additional amplifier to power this sub since quality stock systems produce enough power on their own. Whether you are replacing a blown subwoofer in your stock system or adding this sub to get a little extra bass, you should be happy with the results.
Given the price and materials found on this model you really can’t expect to get the earth-shattering bass that other subs can produce. That being said, many people aren’t really looking for that anyway. Anyone looking to dip their toes into improved car audio or wanting to replace existing subs in their vehicle will find this to be a great place to start without risking much money.

Pros
Not very expensive
Likely won’t require an amplifier

Cons
Can’t handle too much power
Lower sound quality

Everything You Need to Know About Buying 10’’ Subwoofers for Your Car Audio System

Purchasing and installing new subwoofers in your vehicle is a significant investment. Not only do you need the subs themselves, but also the proper wiring, enclosure, amplifier, and more. You may even be purchasing a new deck and other components. Getting the right subwoofers will help ensure the end result looks and sounds just the way you want it.
The best way to make sure you make the right purchase for your situation is to learn more about this type of speaker, and how it is installed in your vehicle. Read through this guide to get a strong understanding of everything you need to know. If you are already familiar with the basics of car audio, just skip to the section that you need to learn more about so you can avoid any mistakes.
Amplifier for Your Subwoofer
All subwoofers need a lot of electricity in order to produce the powerful bass that you desire. In most stock car audio systems, the power comes from your vehicle’s electrical system, into the stereo deck, and then out to the various speakers. While this is fine for basic speaker systems, the deck cannot handle subwoofers that often need anywhere from 300 to 1500 watts of power at a time. This is where car audio amplifiers are required.
Amplifiers for car audio systems are quite complex and need to be handled properly. If you are not familiar with them, you will want to take the time to learn about car audio amps before making a purchase. The following, however, are the key aspects of amplifiers so you know what to look for when buying one.
Power Capacity
Similar to the subwoofers themselves, an amp is going to be rated based on how many watts of power it can feed per channel. Manufacturers will typically list the limits both in RMS (max continuous flow of power) and max watts.
While it might seem safer to have an amp that provides no more than the max watts that your subwoofer can handle, that is not the case. Insufficient power to a speaker can actually damage it just as much as far too much power. With this in mind, it is recommended that you choose an amp that can produce about 100-150% of the RMS watts of your subwoofers.
Power Source
If you are installing an amp that needs 600 or more watts of power, you need to upgrade your vehicle’s battery. This can be done either by swapping the existing battery out with a premium option, or better yet, install a second car battery that is dedicated to the audio system.
Number of Channels
Each amplifier will have a specific number of channels, which is how many ports are available to plug in speakers. Most people will connect one speaker to one channel. This means you need at least one channel per speaker you will be powering. There are a variety of other ways to hook things up, however, so just be aware that you have plenty of options. If you are only wanting to run your subwoofers through the amp, all you need is one channel per sub for the easiest installation.
Heat Production
Amplifiers have large amounts of electricity running through them. During peak use, they can get very hot, which has the potential to be a fire hazard. While you generally want to install the amp in an out of the way location, so it does not get damaged. Equally important is making sure that it is in a spot that is not near flammable objects so that it can operate safely.
Positioning Your Subwoofers
Before you purchase your subwoofers, you should know exactly where in your vehicle they will be installed. The options will depend on what type of vehicle you have, how many subwoofers you plan on purchasing, and other factors. While the specifics will vary slightly based on these things, the following are the main options you have available to you.
In the Trunk
The trunk is the most common place for your subwoofers. This area will give you plenty of room for a full-size enclosure for the subs. When going with this option, the type of enclosure will have a big impact on the quality of the sound your subs produce. We cover the various types of enclosures below in detail to help you to pick the right one.
Many people who are new to car audio mistakenly believe that having the subs in the trunk will distort or muffle the sound, but that is not the case. This location actually has the potential to provide you with the best overall sound quality.
Behind the Seat
Placing subwoofers behind the driver’s and/or passenger’s seat is a great option as it will really allow you to feel it when the bass hits. This is most commonly done in small sports cars or trucks with no cab since the speakers would make it difficult for passengers to fit in the back seats. In addition to really feeling the bass, this setup has the subs in the same area as the people in the vehicle, which can increase the overall volume.
Under the Seat
If you purchase a low-profile subwoofer, such as the Rockville RW10CA you can slide it directly under the seats of the vehicle. This directs the full power of the bass up and through the seat, which many people love. This option is great because it does not take up any usable room in the vehicle, and it is very easy to run the wiring since it does not have to travel as far as if the subs were in the trunk.
Replace Stock Speakers
The last, and least common, option is to purchase subwoofers to replace stock speakers in your vehicle. Some SUVs and other larger vehicles will have stock speakers that are large enough to be replaced by 10’’ subwoofers without any trouble. This option may require you to make some alterations to your vehicle’s seats, doors, or other areas so make sure you do everything properly to avoid causing damage.
Types of Enclosures
The type of enclosure used for your subwoofers is going to have a huge impact on not only the way they sound, but also the way they look. Some custom-made subwoofer enclosures can be true works of art that make your vehicle look amazing. Some are just functional boxes cut out of basic plywood.
The look of the enclosure can vary greatly, but there are generally just four options when it comes to the design that you need to choose from.
Sealed Enclosures
Sealed enclosures are basically just a hollowed-out box that has a hole the size of the subwoofer. The subwoofer is placed into the hole, facing out, and secured in place. The electrical wires are fed into the enclosure and hooked up, then the wire hole is sealed up. This option is best known for people who want ‘tight’ bass.
If you aren’t sure which type of enclosure you want to use, this option is an excellent place to start. They are typically inexpensive, and they have very few problems. They are also easy to make, if you want to go that route. You will find that they also produce a great sound that most people love.
Ported Enclosures
Ported enclosures, which are sometimes called vented, tuned, or bass reflex enclosures are quite similar to a sealed enclosure except there is one opening. This is typically a circular opening, sometimes with a plastic tube going into the box. The port size is determined by the size of the subwoofer. If it is too big or small, it will cause problems with the sound as it comes out. Ported enclosures can produce greater volume for the same amount of power, which is why they are desirable.
Single and Reflex Enclosures
Both the single and double reflex enclosures have the normal box with the subwoofer mounted in it, and then an additional box in the front. This makes it so you can’t actually see the sub at all unless the box is made with plexiglass (which is quite common).
On a single reflex enclosure only the box in front of the subwoofer is ported. With a double reflex enclosure both the box that has the sub and the front box are ported. These types of enclosures are also known as bandpass enclosures and operate very efficiently in that they are able to produce a huge amount of sound with lower amounts of power.
Get the Heart Pounding Bass You Need
There is a lot to know about subwoofers, and it can take quite a bit of time and effort to install them properly into your vehicle. The first time you switch on your new car audio system and pump up the volume, however, you will know that it was all worth the effort.
A powerful subwoofer can provide you with a car audio experience that you just cannot find anywhere else. Now that you know everything you need to make the right decision, review our top 10’’ subwoofers list to pick out the ones that you want for your new system. More

Trucks are great for many reasons, but one area that they lack is in adequate security. Sure, it’s easy to throw in what you need to carry around, but with that comes the prying eyes from strangers and a lack of privacy. To increase the security for things you place on your truck bed, consider investing in a roll up tonneau cover. They’re easy to install and one of the more affordable forms of tonneau cover available!

How to Choose the Right Roll Up Tonneau Cover
The best roll up tonneau covers are durable, strong, and sturdy enough to keep all your possessions safe. We’ll cover some of the basic features to look out for and which types of tonneau covers are the best for you. You can also find a more in-depth guide here.
Types of Roll Up Tonneau Covers
There are two main types of roll up tonneau cover, soft and hard, each with their benefits and drawbacks. This guide focuses exclusively on roll up covers, but if you want to know about different types of tonneau covers in general, you can read more about those here.
Soft Roll Up Covers
Soft roll up tonneau covers are the most basic type of truck covers that you can invest in. They’re made from vinyl fabric and can be UV resistant or waterproof. They’re enough to keep your items safe in the back of the truck bed while you’re driving, though they may be too soft to provide security since they can be sliced through with sharp knives.
However, they’re the more affordable option of the two types. They also weigh less and can be easier to roll up and use on a day to day basis.
Hard Roll Up Covers
Hard roll up tonneau covers can be made from metal or plastic. You’ll be able to protect your possessions much better, but the initial installation can be more difficult.
When they’re rolled up, they also take up more space compared to soft roll up covers. The process of rolling them up can also be more difficult due to their increased weight when compared to soft covers. They are also significantly more expensive than soft roll up covers.
Features to Consider When Buying Roll Up Tonneau Covers
Tonneau covers come in many shapes, sizes, and covers. You’ll want to find one that strikes a good balance between its durability, size, safety features, and price point. Below, we’ll cover the main areas of interest you should consider when purchasing a tonneau cover.
Size
Even if you have a tonneau cover with all the right features, it won’t work well unless the size is suited for your truck bed. If it’s too small or too large, it won’t provide adequate protection or fit correctly over your bed.
Our reviews make sure to highlight sizing options so that you know what you’re buying is sure to fit your truck model specifically. You can also click through to the Amazon product listings in our reviews and enter your truck’s model details to quick-check the size.
If you have bed rail caps, truck bed liners, or anything else that impacts sizing dimensions, you’ll need to make sure the cover you choose can accommodate these, too.
Safety Features
Many people want a tonneau cover to know that their items are safe in the back of their truck when left unattended. A lot of roll up covers have a clamp or Velcro strap to hold them in place, but some covers come with locks and better features. These covers will give you better peace of mind when you leave your truck unattended, knowing that it’s safe from theft.
Installation
While roll up covers are easy to use when they’re installed, getting started with them is another story. Soft covers may only need clamps and fasteners, but hard covers require you to mount, secure, and align several different components to get the cover onto the truck bed safely. You can read more about the installation process here.
Material
The material that makes up your roll up cover determines how much protection your items get, both from potential thieves and from the outdoor elements. Some softer materials can offer waterproofing, and harder materials can offer more protection from theft. The material may also impact the cover’s durability and overall sturdiness, which we note in our reviews.
Waterproofing
If you live in a climate where rainfall is an issue, it may be worth paying extra for a waterproof (or at least water-resistant) tonneau cover. As well as the lining itself, some options come with water-resistant seals to help ensure your possessions are kept safe in all weather conditions. Where this is the case, it’s always noted within our reviews.
Price
The price of the tonneau covers can range from affordable to very expensive. Some covers (often soft covers) can be found under $300 and will keep your items from falling off the truck bed, though they may not be as durable. Others range from $300-$1000, with a good mix of soft and hard covers. A few covers over $1000 have extra security features and offer the most protection.
Now that you know what to consider, here are the best roll up tonneau covers available today.

Top 10 Best Roll Up Tonneau Covers 2020
1. Best Overall Roll Up Tonneau Cover: Tyger Auto T1 Soft Cover

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Why we like it: Everything you need from a basic tonneau cover. It has water-sealing properties to keep your items dry and a secure latching system to keep all your items safe in your truck bed.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Soft
Material: Marine-grade vinyl, aluminum powder coated rails
Sizes: 5’6”, 6’6”, 8’0”
Weight: 25 lbs.
Waterproofing: Water-resistant and watertight
For an all-around solid option, the Tyger Auto T1 Soft Roll Up might be the best option. The cover is sturdy and durable, evident by the limited lifetime warranty offered by the company. In addition, it comes with special weathertight sealing strips so that your items stay safe and dry in the truck bed, no matter how wet the outside environment is.
The latch lock and tension system that comes with this cover is enough to keep your items secure, while the material is durable and hard for thieves to cut through. Installation shouldn’t take more than 30 minutes, and the built-in crossbars keep the product stable and secure when you’re using it. However, since this is vinyl, you may want to use Tyger’s own vinyl cleanser rather than just using soap.
The rails do extend a little above the bed rails, which can take away from the overall appearance. It also covers the stake pocket holes, so you won’t be able to use it with a ladder rack or side rails. However, by covering all the stake pocket holes, you end up with a watertight tonneau cover that’s capable of keeping all outside elements out when you’re on your next road trip.

Pros
Limited lifetime warranty
Weathertight sealing strips keep items dry in the truck bed
The latch lock and tension system is secure
Easy installation which takes around 30 minutes
Built-in crossbars add to the strength of the tonneau cover

Cons
Covers the stake pocket holes
Rails extend slightly above the bed rails

2. Best Budget Roll Up Tonneau Cover: MaxMate Soft Roll Up Cover

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Why we like it: The MaxMate cover does its job without costing a fortune, keeping your valuables safe in your truck bed. It’s durable and with a 10-year warranty, you won’t have to worry about spending money on another for at least a decade.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Soft
Material: Marine-grade vinyl
Sizes: 5’8”, 6’6”
Weight:4 lbs.
Waterproofing: Water-resistant but not waterproof
If you’re looking for an affordable option that’ll last you a while, the MaxMate roll up cover is right up your alley. It comes with a 10-year warranty, so you can be sure the brand owners know their cover is durable enough to last. In addition, the cover is strong when locked, making sure that nothing will fall out as you drive. Unfortunately, while this is a great deal, it comes in very limited sizes, so you may not be able to find one that fits your truck bed.
It’s made out of marine-grade vinyl that can hold its own against the elements. However, while the material itself is water-resistant, the lack of seals means that water can end up getting into the truck bed. While you can buy some stake hole plugs to keep water from leaking in, it is an extra cost that you’ll need to consider.
The side rails themselves are also a bit bulky, which can take away from the overall look of your truck. If you are concerned about the appearance, you can opt for a sleeker tonneau cover such as the TruXedo TruXport roll up.
It’s easy to install, like many other tonneau covers, and comes with aircraft-grade aluminum side rails that’ll keep it stable and secure. In addition, the vinyl itself remains wrinkle-free and won’t shrink or warp after months of use. As with many other covers, it’s also smooth enough to save you a bit on gas mileage.

Pros
Affordable and sturdy option
10-year warranty
Locks securely over the truck bed
Aircraft-grade aluminum side rails
Vinyl remains wrinkle-free and won’t warp

Cons
Doesn’t come in all sizes
Water can slip into the truck bed
Side rails are bulky

3. Most Secure: Gator ETX Soft Roll Up Cover

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Why we like it: If you don’t want to worry about your valuables falling out of your truck bed, the Gator ETX roll up cover is perfect. With adjustable tension controls and sturdy clamps, this cover is sure to keep all of your items safe.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Soft
Material: Industrial strength leather-grain vinyl
Sizes: 5’8”, 6’6”, 8”
Weight: 27 lbs.
Waterproofing: Water-resistant, not completely waterproof
The Gator ETX soft roll up clamps onto your truck securely enough that you can be sure your items won’t fall out. With an inside mount process and a no-drill install, this cover sits low and unobtrusively over your truck bed, adding to the overall look. In addition, it also comes with adjustable tension controls to help you get the most secure fit over your truck bed.
The cover itself is made in the USA, which speaks to the high-quality materials sourced for its production. In addition, the special design of this cover also includes 2 crossbars, which increase its strength, both against thieves and items that could fly out as you’re driving. To add to the quality, it also comes with a lifetime warranty on the frame and a 10-year warranty for the tarp itself.
This tonneau cover may be all you need for the next decade! If you want a slightly cheaper roll up cover that also has a 10-year warranty, you should consider the MaxMate soft roll up cover. However, keep in mind the hook and loop rail closures are not as durable as the rest of the cover and can be easily damaged over time. In addition, some water can also leak into the truck bed, since soft covers don’t protect as well against water when compared to hard covers, like the BAK Revolver X2 Hard Rolling Cover.

Pros
Secure clamps with adjustable tension control
High-quality ingredients sourced from the USA
Lifetime warranty on frame
10-year warranty for the tarp
Two crossbars increase the strength and security of cover

Cons
Hook and rail closures aren’t durable
Some water may leak into the truck bed

4. Best Premium Roll Up Tonneau Cover: BAK Revolver X2 Hard Rolling Cover

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Why we like it: The BAK Revolver X2 hard rolling cover covers all bases, from strength to security. Made from aluminum slats and accompanied by its auto latching mechanism, your valuables are certainly safe in the back of your truck bed.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Hard
Material: Gloss vinyl and aluminum slats
Sizes: 5’9”, 6’7”, 8’2”
Weight: 81 lbs.
Waterproofing: Comes with a rubber seal, waterproof
The BAK Revolver X2 cover comes with everything you might want, from its sturdy construction to the way it automatically locks onto the side of the bed as you roll it down. It’s durable, and the aluminum slats are also lined with rubber at the end to create a weatherproof seal.
While this is definitely on the pricier side, the quality and level of protection are hard for soft covers to match. However, keep in mind that this cover only comes with a 3-year warranty, so you’ll want to take good care of it when you have it.
In addition, the rubber seal that it arrives with is not as sturdy for waterproofing, but you can easily buy your own water seal to completely waterproof the truck bed. The material itself is water-resistant and high quality, much stronger than any of the soft covers. If you want a waterproof cover from the start, take a look at the TruXedo TruXport roll up.
Like other hard covers, this one is also a fair bit heavier and bulkier than traditional soft cover roll ups. However, with it comes increased security without you having to shell out thousands of dollars for a hard folding cover. In addition, you’ll be able to roll it completely out of the way for full truck bed access when you need to get something.
The aluminum construction of the cover also means that it can withstand up to 400 lbs. of weight on top, something far greater than what any soft cover can withstand.

Pros
Aluminum slats lined with rubber for waterproofing
More sturdy and durable than soft covers
Increased security
Cheaper than hard folding and retractable tonneau covers
Can withstand 400 lbs. of weight on top

Cons
May need to invest in a better rubber seal
Only has a 3-year warranty
Heavier and bulkier than soft covers

5. Most Durable: TruXedo TruXport Roll Up Cover

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Why we like it: If you want a roll up cover to lasts you years, the TruXedo TruXport soft cover is the right option for you. Made with leather-grained fabric, this cover is durable and won’t wrinkle or shrink over months of usage.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Soft
Material: Commercial grade leather-grain vinyl
Sizes: 5’8”, 6’6”, 8’0”
Weight: 26 lbs.
Waterproofing: Water-resistant material
The TruXedo TruXport roll up cover is made with high-quality leather-grained fabric and is designed to last. This fabric also protects your valuables and possessions from most weather elements without increasing the weight of the cover. In addition, the material not only adds to the strength of the cover, but it also adds to the overall sleek and stylish aesthetic.
However, keep in mind that it’s not completely waterproof, and some water may leak into your truck bed. If you are concerned about water getting into the truck bed, your safest option would be the oEdRo roll up cover.
On the bright side, the material itself isn’t prone to warping or shrinking when wet and holds up under rain or snow. It also has dual paddle latches at the ends that can keep your tailgate in a locked position whenever the cover is closed, adding an extra level of security. Best of all, the cover is made in the USA, so you’re helping out the economy with your purchase.
One installation perk that jumps out is the pre-set tension controls added to the dual latching system. Adjusting the tension is one of the hardest parts of the installation process, and TruXedo takes care of that for you. However, when you are installing, to get the perfect fit, you may need to install the cover lower than the guideline provided in the instruction manual.

Pros
Made with high-quality leather-grained fabric
Dual paddle latches at ends add extra security
Doesn’t shrink or warp when exposed to rain and snow
Made in the USA
Pre-set tension controls make installation easier

Cons
Not fully waterproof
Water may leak into the truck bed from the sides
May need to install lower in the truck bed to get the right fit

6. Lowest Maintenance: Lund Genesis Elite Roll Up Cover

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Why we like it: The Lund Genesis Elite cover is very hands-off, especially when it comes to care and maintenance and. You can use normal soap and water without needing to invest in special cleaners, and the cover itself is resistant to most outdoor elements.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Soft
Material: Twill-weave matte canvas
Sizes: 5’7”, 6’4”, 8’0”
Weight: 25 lbs.
Waterproofing: Water-resistant material
Tonneau covers can be hard to clean and maintain, but the Lund Genesis Elite cover takes care of that for you. You can wash it with basic soap and water without needing to invest in any extra specialist cleaners. The twill-weave material is resistant to water, mold, mildew, UV, dirt, and dust, so you won’t have to worry about cleaning it often, either. Once you get it set up, you can go a while before needing to deep clean the cover.
There’s a single latch mechanism that’s easy to use with this cover when you need to get it up or down. It’s also low profile, meaning it’s mounted inside the truck bed and won’t interfere with your current truck design and appearance. Paired with its resistance to dirt and grime, you have a cover that looks good almost all year round!
However, the material does start to shrink and warp after a few months of use. While most soft covers may end up having this problem in the long run, you can avoid it by investing in a hard cover such as the BAK Revolver cover.
In addition, the tension adjustment during installation can be difficult to get right, and the cover itself may not fit perfectly on your truck. Make sure you check the amazon style guide to check that the specifications fit your truck well. In addition, while the material is water-resistant, the seams do not have special waterproof sealing, so water may be able to get in if you didn’t install it securely.

Pros
Only need soap and water to clean
Resistant to most outdoor elements
The single latch mechanism is easy to use and roll up
Twill cover is water-resistant
Low profile and black cover matches with all truck designs

Cons
Material shrinks or warps after a few months of use
No waterproof sealing
Tension adjustment can be difficult to get right

7. Best Weather Resistance: oEdRo Roll Up Truck Bed Cover

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Why we like it: The oEdRo tonneau cover can keep your items from getting damaged by outside elements with their included weather strip.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Soft
Material: Double layer PVC
Sizes:8 ft., 6.5 ft.
Weight: 27 lbs.
Waterproofing: Made of waterproof material
The oEdRo tonneau cover specifically aims to keep your items safe from the outside environment, with an included weather strip for sealing. The material it’s made of is entirely waterproof, and the weather strip keeps dust, rain, and snow from getting onto your truck bed. If you have any delicate items you’re transporting that you can’t afford to get wet, this option is for you.
It also comes with dual tailgate paddle latches that can only be opened when you open the tailgate first. This adds an extra layer of protection against people who may try to break into your truck bed.
The cover is also designed to be slim, so you can save up to 12 percent on gas costs when using it, and it comes with a limited lifetime warranty, so it’s definitely built to last.
In addition, oEdRo simplifies the installation process by providing aluminum quick clamps to secure the rails to the truck bed. However, the clamps do come with rubber protectors that make installation a little trickier to latch on and adjust correctly.
The directions for the installation process can also be confusing to read, so if you want a cover that’s easier to install, try the Tonno Lo Roll cover. The width of the cover itself is also a little too large for some trucks, so make sure you use the amazon sizing guide.

Pros
Weather strip protects your valuables from the environment
Made of waterproof material with special seals
Dual tailgate paddle latches for added security
Save up to 12 percent on gas due to slim design
Limited lifetime warranty

Cons
Installation with clamps can be difficult
The instruction manual is hard to understand
The width is a little too large for some trucks

8. Most Protective: TruXedo Sentry CT Cover

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Why we like it: If you’re worried about your valuables being stolen, the TruXedo Sentry CT hard roll up cover is the perfect choice for you. Aluminum slats are bonded to the heavy-duty woven fabric, making it difficult for anyone to cut through the cover.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Hard
Material: Woven fabric and aluminum slats
Sizes: 5’8”, 6’6”, 6’7”, 8’0”
Weight: 75 lbs.
Waterproofing: Water-resistant but not watertight
While it’s a little more expensive than other options, this truck cover offers significantly more protection for your valuables. The hard cover is difficult for thieves to cut through, especially with the pressure-bonded aluminum slats on the underside of the black fabric.
In addition, installation isn’t difficult as you’ll just need to mount this to the inside of your truck bed. However, when compared to the installation for soft covers such as the Tonno Lo Roll cover, you’ll notice it takes more effort to get this cover completely set up.
However, while this material is durable, it’s not completely waterproof like the other options. Some water may leak in from time to time as there are no water-resistant seals. In addition, the added aluminum slats make this cover heavier, so it may also be harder to roll up with one hand. You’ll also have to take good care of the cover since it is so expensive.
While it is heavy to manually roll up, the quick release system added to this truck does help you out slightly, letting you remove the entire cover when activated. In addition, the cover is completely blacked out with a matte finish, which pairs well with any truck you might have.
Finally, there’s one more extra security latch at the center of the cover that helps with protection and keeping your cargo safe when you drive.

Pros
Strong and durable
Hard for thieves to cut through material
Matte black finish pairs well with all trucks
Quick-release system opens cover quickly
Extra security latch keeps cargo safe during transportation

Cons
On the pricier side
No water-resistant seals
Much heavier than other options

9. Best for Cold Weather: North Mountain Soft Vinyl Roll-Up

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Why we like it: The North Mountain tonneau cover is still pliable and easy to roll up, even when the weather gets chilly. The material is tear-resistant and doesn’t get brittle, with epoxy coated aluminum rails to improve durability.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Soft
Material: Double-sided vinyl tarp and aluminum frame
Sizes: See Amazon sizing guide
Weight:7 lbs.
Waterproofing: Improved water runoff design
Some tonneau covers are difficult to roll up when it gets cold, becoming more brittle and prone to tears. However, North Mountain’s cover is just as easy to roll up in cold weather, barely changing no matter how extreme the temperature gets. After all, it’s specifically designed to be tear-resistant, no matter the weather. The aluminum rails also have an epoxy coating to help against lower temperatures.
However, keep in mind that this cover only has a 3-year warranty. If you want a soft roll up cover with a longer warranty, you should definitely consider the Tyger Auto T1 option.
The design also has you covered when it comes to waterproofing and usability. It sits on top of the installed rails to allow the water to run off without getting into the truck bed. In addition, with connecting crossbars and low profile bows, it’s easy to roll up the tarp whenever you need to get full access to your truck bed. The installation itself isn’t too difficult, with easy clamps for assistance.
With that being said, you may need more tools to get the cover set up. You may want a hex key wrench to adjust the tension of the cover so that it stays in place. The crossbars also aren’t always secure in their elastic sleeves, so you may have to be mindful not to drive too quickly down the interstate.

Pros
Flexible and tear-resistant in cold weather
Aluminum rails have an epoxy coating
Improved water runoff design
Crossbars allow for easy roll up of cover
Easy to install

Cons
Only a three-year warranty
Crossbars can be loose in their elastic sleeves
Need a hex key to adjust the tension

10. Easiest to Set-Up Tonneau Cover: Tonno Lo Roll

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Why we like it: The Tonno Lo Roll truck cover is fast and simple to install, a one-man job that takes under an hour.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Soft
Material: Double-sided vinyl tarp
Sizes: 5’5”, 6’5”, 8’0”
Weight: 36 lbs.
Waterproofing: Water-resistant seals
The Tonno Lo Roll tonneau cover is easy to install in just minutes, perfect if you don’t want to spend an afternoon getting the details of the tonneau cover down. It comes with heavy-duty clamps that are simple to align and get right the first time, with no drilling or cutting required. All you might need is a 17mm socket, a ratchet, and some clamps to hold the side rails in place during installation.
The material is created from a tear-resistant black tarp and double-sided vinyl for improved durability. The tarp itself is waterproof, and the added water-resistance seals keep your items from getting wet when it drizzles. In addition, it’s also pliable and makes rolling up the cover quick and easy, giving you full access to your truck bed at a moment’s notice. It also comes with a Limited Lifetime Policy, this cover’s form of warranty.
Unfortunately, over the course of a few months, the Velcro holding the cover in place becomes loose due to UV exposure, which is bad if you live in a sunny location. If you want a more durable option, you should consider the TruXedo TruXport roll up.
For this tonneau cover, you may have to resew the Velcro straps yourself once you see signs of tearing. In addition, the warranty doesn’t cover normal wear-and-tear. However, you can avoid some of these problems by keeping your truck out of the sun when not in use.

Pros
Fast installation in minutes
Needs very few outside materials for installation
Comes with water-resistant seals
Easy to roll up and use
Limited Lifetime Policy

Cons
Velcro disintegrates and becomes loose over months of use
Becomes damaged from too much UV exposure
Warranty doesn’t cover wear-and-tear issues

Guide to Picking the Perfect Roll Up Tonneau Cover
When it comes to your truck, you want the best tonneau cover for keeping your items safe and secure when you’re driving on the interstate or when you leave the truck unattended. Below, we’ll get into the nitty-gritty details for tonneau covers, so you know exactly what to look for and what to avoid.
Types of Tonneau Covers
When it comes to tonneau covers, you have more than just the roll up covers covered in this guide. While roll up covers are the most inexpensive and beginner-friendly, we’ll cover some of the basics below for the main categories of flat tonneau covers.
Roll Up Covers
Roll up covers are the least expensive and the quickest to install. These usually just need a few clamps, with no drilling necessary and very little setup time. However, they also offer the least protection and durability out of all the tonneau covers, evident with their lower price point. If this is your first tonneau cover, roll ups may be the safest option for you to test out.
Folding Covers
Folding covers often come in a tri-fold design, though some may have more or fewer folds. They take up slightly more space when folded up, but they’re good if you plan on carrying higher cargo that rises above the truck bed, and you need for your truck bed to be exposed to air. They’re also sturdy and can be extra secure when your truck has a locking tailgate.
Retractable Covers
Retractable tonneau covers are the most expensive and retract into a canister that’s located at the front of the truck bed. They can be made from vinyl, aluminum, or other strong materials, and provide the most security for your truck bed. These covers can also be secured when they’re only partially open, which the other types can’t do.
The Benefits of Tonneau Covers
Not sure why you should invest in a roll up tonneau cover? Here are some of the top benefits that they provide!
Theft Protection
The primary reason is to keep your possessions safe, even when you’re not around your truck. While normal cars have trunks to store your valuables, your truck bed is open to the world, and anyone walking past can easily reach over and steal some of your items. To keep your things safe, a tonneau cover is the way to go. Our favorite tonneau cover for protection would be the BAK Revolver cover.
Organization
While it may sound odd, getting one of these tonneau covers makes it easier to keep your items organized in the truck bed. Because the cover protects against the wind, your things won’t shift around in the truck bed nearly as much, and you’ll find them in the same position when you finally arrive at your destination to make unpacking that much easier.
Keeping Items Safe During Transportation
If you’re planning on transporting something fragile, or something on the lighter side, you definitely don’t want your things shifting around on the truck bed as you drive. Tonneau covers keep the wind from knocking your things over and into one another.
Even better, it keeps your items from flying off the truck bed when you suddenly stop or start your vehicle! Your items are as secure in your truck bed as they would be in a traditional car truck. One tonneau cover that does that really well is the Gator ETX cover.
Better Gas Mileage
It might sound strange, but investing in tonneau covers can improve your mileage by up to 10%. With the cover, there’s much less air resistance when you’re speeding along the highway, and this definitely adds up over time. Once the truck bed is covered, it won’t generate as much air drag, and the covers are even designed with this idea in mind. In our experience, the oEdRo roll up cover does this really well.
Resale Value
The resale value of your truck can increase when you install one of these tonneau covers, which can be a real benefit if you ever plan on selling your truck. Because the covers offer extra protection, you can think of them as another investment that you’ve made for your vehicle. Buyers will appreciate the already installed cover, and a cover could end up earning you some more money come selling time.
Privacy
With a roll up tonneau cover, you’ll have an opaque cover over the truck bed so that people can’t tell what you’re carrying around. Perfect if you don’t like the idea of the world seeing the things you may put in your truck bed
Installing Roll Up Tonneau Covers
After choosing the perfect tonneau cover, installing it is the most important step to keep it secure on your truck. You’ll want to open your tailgate first to make the process easier in the long run. The process can be difficult, and it’s best not to complicate it any further.
If you have a soft tonneau cover, you can simply attach the clamps and straps to the locations marked in the instructions manual. However, hard roll up tonneau covers require some more work from you. With hard covers, you’ll need to follow these steps.
If your tonneau cover has side rails, clamp them in place, either on the outside or inside. Be careful, as this step will determine the overall stability of your cover.
Ready the rubber seal next to keep elements from getting in.
Add additional Velcro to make the cover even steadier.
Unroll the cover tarp from the rear cab towards the tailgate.
Care and Maintenance for Tonneau Covers
Tonneau covers can be expensive, so you want to make sure that you take proper care of yours. While different materials need different levels of maintenance, you’ll want to regularly clean your tonneau cover, whether with water and soap or with specialized cleaning products.
For example, vinyl covers may need special vinyl cleaners, and covers with several moving parts will need you to check every few months to make sure nothing has come loose. For other materials, water and mild soap will suffice for cleaning unless the instruction and installation guide for the cover says otherwise.
Check that the clamps, bolts, and mounting equipment are still in place and haven’t budged. In addition, you’ll want to examine the cover overall to look for nicks, bumps, spots of corrosion, or any other imperfections. These covers can be large and heavy, so small issues can build up over time and end up ruining the cover.
Finally, to keep the cover in top condition, you’ll want to make sure not to leave heavy objects and equipment on top of the cover. Especially if you have a soft cover, doing this will cause it to sag and become damaged over time. Your instructions manual will likely have a maximum weight that can be put on it, so consult the guide first.
Some tonneau covers require less maintenance than others, such as the Lund Genesis Elite. Others, such as the BAK Revolver cover require a bit more care from you.
Final Thoughts
Getting a roll up tonneau cover is the perfect way to keep your items safe and increase your truck’s value without having to spend a fortune. It gets the job done, and the higher-quality roll ups can be used for years without becoming damaged.
Once you get past the installation phase, you’re good to go. No matter how intense your next road trip or expedition, a tonneau cover makes sure all your things are safe in the truck bed. More

What is the most cost-efficient way to completely overhaul the look of your vehicle? Painting and restoring your rims. Daily wear and tear can undermine the aesthetics of everything from a highly-modified import to a classic American muscle car. Wheel rash, scratches, and chips all contribute to a reduced visual appeal.
In this guide, we will explain how to fix these issues, which paints should be used on the rims after restoration, and how to best care for your wheels into the future.

Factors to Consider in Rim Paint
When choosing the perfect accent for your ride, color ultimately comes down to personal preference. Some people may love a bright neon pink finish while others will despise it. We are not going to be evaluating which colors are aesthetically pleasing. Instead, this section is specifically about quantitative specifications that identify the great paints from the subpar.
What Do I Need?
To paint your rims, you will need a primer, which can also act as the main coat, and then, after sanding your rims, applying a base coat and a clear coat to finalize the look. You don’t have to use a primer, but you’ll get a better result if you do.
We’ve included all three types in our list, and some can do multiple jobs – we’ll note in the reviews which. In our full buyer’s guide, we detail the whole process from start to finish.
Color/Finish
When we think of color, we generally think, “Which color? While the literal paint tone is essential, when we say color in this section, we refer to the individual colors’ brilliance or uniqueness.
Is all that glitters gold? There are many varieties of gold on the market. Color is always going to be somewhat objective, but there is a mainstream appreciation of what makes a good finish stand out from the crowd.
Color matching is a huge deal for many car owners. Let’s take a 2019 Hyundai IONIQ as an example. It has a rose gold accent on the interior and the exterior of the vehicle. While yes, any rose gold should be close, a company like Dupli-color makes specific paints that accurately match OEM colors, including accents.
Quality
Consistency, few streaks, and not requiring too many coats – as well as having a decent aerosol delivery system – are the hallmarks of good quality paint. Most paints will look good if a pro uses them. The real test of quality is how it looks when used by an amateur.
Quality also encompasses the ease of use and how well the product performs. For example, some paints are incredibly cheap but have very poor quality assurance on the nozzle, cap, and even color intensity. We will not be recommending these brands because they are notorious for being inconsistent, and the minor savings will not equal the time you may take to repaint or wait for an exchange.
Durability
One of the most critical factors that differentiate brands and finishes apart from each other is durability. Resistance to water, chips, heat, and other environmental hazards are all aspects of durability.
There is a reason why you should not use just any paint on your rims. Certain paints are resistant to a very high temperature, which is vital due to the extreme heat generated by your brakes and calipers. This is also true as far as water and environmental factors are concerned. Paint on the exterior of your car must be waterproof and weather-proof; otherwise, it will peel, bubble, and crack, and that is not a look anyone is going for.
The final factor when it comes to durability is chip or scratch resistance. Most automotive paints have very high damage resistance. Rim paint is no different.
Cost
The average can of wheel paint costs you around $10. Some manufacturers offer entry-level paints at about $5 a can price point, but others can range up to approximately $30 a can. Overall, the cost is usually in line with quality and durability, but not in every case. We will clarify when a product is an excellent deal.
With those factors in mind, let’s get your wheels spinning with our favorite car paints on the market.

Top 10 Best Spray Paint for Rims 2020
1. Best Overall Rim Paint: Dupli-Color Paint

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Why we like it: Dupli-color offers a highly accurate color match and an excellent quality finish for a price that should be in almost anyone’s budget.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Size: 12 oz Cans, Single, or 6 Pack
Colors: Bronze, Graphite, Black, Gold, Alloy, White, Copper, Rose Gold, Silver
Finish: Matte, Metallic, Gloss, Primer
Dupli-color was founded in 1938 by US Army Lt. Colonel Sigmund E. Edelstone. The colonel had an innovative idea to offer automotive paint perfectly matched to OEM paints. Starting from his garage, he purchased the paints from Sherwin-Williams and made the products available to his customers. Today, Dupli-color is a Sherwin-Williams company and stays true to its founder’s desire to demand perfection in automotive paint matching.
This product comes in many different colors, but our personal favorites are the Rose Gold and White. The Rose Gold has a metallic finish that looks so smooth and professional and color-matches many OEM finishes.
Of all the rim paints available, their White is the best. The flat matte finish on this paint is out of this world. You might be thinking, “Who wants white rims?” However, once you see it, it will be hard to forget.
The Dupli-color High-Performance Wheel Paint is available in either single 12-ounce cans or a pack of six 12 ounce cans. We would recommend picking up a case as it’s a better deal overall, and you will always have a little bit leftover.
Duplicolor High Performance is easy to use and easy to spray correctly. They have one of the best quality assurance systems on the market, with very few nozzle failures or clogs.
It is almost always cheaper to buy a six-pack than buying three cans, which is somewhat shocking. It is a positive for those who will be painting a full set of wheels, though, because the discount found on the six-packs allow you to not worry about running out of paint.
Overall, Dupli-color has fulfilled Lt. Colonel Edelstone’s dream of perfectly matched automotive paints. The quality and colors are unmatched by any other automotive paint manufacturer, and the value and QA are top-notch. We highly recommend Dupli-color High-Performance Wheel Paints as the best overall rim paint.

Pros
Color Match
Great Quality
Many Colors/Finishes

2. Best Primer: Dupli-Color Scratch Filler & Primer

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Why we like it: Perfect Filler and Primer 2-in-1 that can deal with minor surface imperfections before base coats.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Size: 11 oz. Cans, Single
Colors: Gray, Red
Finish: Primer
Dupli-color comes in again with a fantastic product meant to meet the needs of most amateur painters. Available in either gray or red, this primer will work on almost any potential base coat color. The gray version is slightly more expensive as it is more universal, but both options should fulfill your needs.
It is sometimes harder to determine how good a primer is just by looking at it. This product stands out from the rest of the market to consistently get complete coverage with very few downsides. This filler and primer are rust-resistant and are usable on high heat applications such as wheels and brake calipers.
What sets this product apart from the other primers is its inherent ability not to dry out before you are done with your project. This primer has a slightly longer dry time, and that is a good thing. Certain brands use a quick-dry formulation in which the primer will often dry inside the can before you are done, which leads to beading and bubbles on the final product.
This product is recommended to those who have only minor scratches and imperfections on their wheels. When you can save a bit of money and get a top-performing product, what’s not to love?

Pros
Filler & Primer
Great Quality
Long Dry

Cons
No Black Option

3. Best Clear Coat: USC Spray Max 2k Aerosol

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Why we like it: USC Spray Max 2k is a professional product in a rattle can. It can stand up to abuse, providing you allow ample time for the coat to settle.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Size: 2-11.8 oz.Cans
Colors: Clear
Finish: Clear Coat
The USC Spray Max 2k High Gloss Clearcoat is the best clear coat you can buy in a can. It’s as simple as that.
This clear coat goes on stiff and glossy. It has a bright sheen to the finish that makes it look like it was professionally done. It also has an excellent polishability and can be waxed with very high resistance to abrasion and scratches. This clear coat is rated for up to 500 degrees Celsius and should withstand any heat from brakes or other external factors.
It is a relatively easy product to use but has one quirk that may lower its overall appeal. When you take off the lid, the first time you use it, you have to push the nozzle down to make the internal compartment break so that the actuator can mix with the urethane inside the can before spraying. Once you do that, you have about 48 hours to use it before it dries out.
It has a twelve-hour dry time at 20 degrees Celsius, so make sure to do this last before heading to bed. Then in the morning, you can get back out there to do one more coat. Make sure to follow the directions on the can when applying it.
We highly recommend letting the wheels sit for 48 hours after clear coating to allow that outer coat to harden without cracks or environmental hazards.

Pros
Best Canned Clear Coat
Great Quality
Combo 2-Pack

Cons
Long Dry Time
Complicated Instructions

4. Best Premium Wheel Paint: VHT High-Temperature

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Why we like it: VHT offers a top of the line wheel paint that rivals expensive automotive grade paint only available from manufacturers.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Size: 11oz Cans, Single, or 6 Pack
Colors: Gloss Clear, Aluminum, Chevy Rally Silver, Gloss Black, Graphite, Satin Black, Matte Clear, Ford Argent Silver
Finish: Clear, Base, Gloss, Matte
VHT offers an easy to use, matte or gloss base coat and clear coat that will rival OE manufacturers’ rivals. This paint is best when used in conjunction with our guide below.
As far as the color and finish options, VHT leaves a bit to be desired. The limited selection may sway people to choose a different product. However, those who do choose VHT will have at least two color-matches available in Chevy Rally Silver and Ford Argent Silver.
This paint is resistant up to 250 degrees Fahrenheit and has built-in resistances to chips and cracks. It is specifically formulated to be used on wheels. It can be used on either steel or aluminum wheels and will rejuvenate the look of your car. Durability is a concern with paint exposed to the elements, and VHT offers the highest quality paint that we could find for this specific application.
There is one additional downside to using VHT over other brands is the price. While it is a top competitor, the color selection, in addition to its price, leaves it in the premium category.

Pros
Above Average Color-Match
High Durability
Great Dry Time

Cons
Expensive
Few Color Options

5. Plasti Dip Luxury Metal Spray

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Why we like it: Plasti Dip offers a beginner-friendly luxury grade finish that is non-permanent and a great way to learn how to paint automotive parts and wheels.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Size: 2-11oz Cans w/Cangun
Colors: Aintree Green, Black Sapphire, Glacier White, Limegold Metallic, Satin White Aluminum, Selenite Gray, Ultrasonic Blue, Volcanic Red
Finish: Base, Metallic, Matte
Plasti Dip has a mixed reputation; you either love it or hate it. It is most well known for being used to “wrap” cars in a semi-permanent paint and has been the topic of discussion for many automotive purists since its release.
One of the most significant advantages of using Plasti Dip over conventional paint is that it is removable and is an extra layer of protection between the natural environment and the exposed metal on wheels.
There are many different colors available in their luxury lineup, which, as far as we are concerned, is more of a marketing term than an upgrade over their existing products. To be entirely fair, they have expanded their canned line-up for this product specifically, so it is advertised.
Of all their color and finish options, the Aintree Green is incredibly vibrant. It would fit the aesthetic of an old school Jeep or off-road 4×4. It has a slight “pebbling” found in almost all Plasti Dip paints and looks good in green. Another top pick would be Volcanic Red, which is brilliant. It has a decent amount of brightness built in to make your wheels stand out from everyone else out there.
The best part about using Plasti Dip aside from the removability is the increased durability and protection. Different from almost every other paint on the market, the coating that is applied ends up being slightly rubberized and, in turn, allows for a little bit more action before scraping or chipping.
When using Plasti Dip, you do not need to sand and prime your wheels unless you want the coating to be permanent. We recommend coating one wheel to see if you like the finish, and if you do, peel, then sand and prime.
One final thing that needs to be said about any Plasti Dip product, cleaning, and prep, is even more critical than standard paint. This is because it adheres to the metal rather than melding with it. Ensuring that you follow all the steps and take your time will significantly increase the finished product’s overall appeal.

Pros
Great Price
High Durability
Removable/Non-Permanent
Unique Look

Cons
Non-Permanent
Requires Careful Prep

6. Best Budget Wheel Paint: Krylon Automotive Sandable Primer

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Why we like it: If you are looking for a budget-friendly primer and base Krylon is your best bet for quality and consistency.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Size: 12 oz Cans, Single
Colors: White Primer, Black Primer, Black Acrylic Enamel, Gray Primer, Green Primer, Red Rusty Primer, Silver Base
Finish: Primer, Base, Matte, Gloss
One of the most well-known paint companies in the United States today has to be Krylon. It has been the budget rattle can option of everyone from your grandma to the neighbor kids spraying their name on the side of the McDonald’s bathroom stall. Their wheel paint is no exception to their budget-friendly lineup.
While they don’t offer many base coat options, they have a handful of hard to find primer colors, specifically Green and their Rusty Red. These would be great for both of the Plasti Dip base coats if you decide to make them permanent.
If you are looking to save money on paint and primer, this is the best option. It is a fantastic option for people on tight budgets who still want that new look. There have been issues with the nozzles being less than perfect, leaving drips and drying out quickly. But aside from minor inconveniences and the lack of base coat options, Krylon offers a good product.
There’s not much that separates this line from their standard paint line other than slightly increased heat resistance. If their primers were compared to food, they would be spaghetti without sauce. There is absolutely nothing wrong with how they perform, but they miss the part that completes them. They have a 2-in-1 filler primer that is their best product by far and feels like the chef finally decided to add the sauce to your primer-y noodles.
Overall, Krylon offers a good product line when it comes to automotive primers. They are not going to impress you or your neighbors, but they will do what they are meant to do. The lack of options on base coat colors is pulling this line down, but the ones that are offered are adequate.

Pros
Great Price
Obscure Primer Colors
Brand Recognition

Cons
Only One 2-in-1 Option
Only 2 Base Colors
QA Issues

7. Dupli-Color HWP103 Clear High Performance

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Why we like it: Dupli-Color offers a top-tier clear coat at a reasonable price that often flies under the radar of casual buyers.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Size: 12 oz Cans, Single, 6-Pack
Colors: Clear
Finish: Clear Coat
Dupli-Color is back again, this time with their High-Performance Clear Coat. It appears that the company decided to make this outstanding clear coat available at a reasonably competitive price.
Though many companies produce clear coats, very few are genuinely spectacular; this is one exception to the rule. They get to sell more products, and you can get a professional-grade clear coat for a fraction of the initial cost.
This paint has a sheen gloss that is virtually unmatched in the market; it looks great, is smooth to the touch, and offers a little more bling than other brands do. The most important factor that truly sets this apart from even our top pick for clear coats is the overall durability of this coating has.
Durability can be hard to quantifiably measure without damaging your wheels. However, one statistic is often overlooked on clear coats, and that is their temperature resistance. Most readily available automotive clear coats have a maximum temperature ceiling of between 200 and 250 degrees Fahrenheit. This paint has a ceiling of closer to 500 degrees, which allows it to be used on both wheels and brake calipers, engine parts, and other high-temperature applications.
We recommend that if you plan to use a Dupli-Color base coat, you should probably use this clear coat as well. If you’re not using Dupli-color, then the Spray Max will still be the better product if you have no intention of using it within a high-temperature application.

Pros
Perfect Gloss Sheen
Hard & Durable
Works Great with Dupli Color Base Coats

Cons
Difficult Application
Dries Too Quickly In Heat

8. VHT SP756 Engine Enamel

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Why we like it: VHT’s Engine Enamel line has many fascinating and unique colors that can be used as accents on engine parts or wheels.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Size: 11 oz Cans, Single, or 6 Pack
Colors: Chrysler Hemi Orange, Competition Ford Blue, Gloss Yellow, Grabber Green. Hot Pink, Chevy Orange Red, GM Holden Blue, and many others.
Finish: Enamel Gloss
VHT has one of the most diverse lineups of high-temperature automotive paints available today. With over 30 different shades, many of which are color-matched to specific, mostly American, OE manufacturers, you are bound to find the right choice. With a quick dry of around 30 minutes and a complete dry overnight, this might be one of the better options out there.
However, just like the other offerings by VHT, the price pulls this down slightly and would be a hurdle for some purchasers, especially if you happen to have larger aftermarket wheels.
This paint has one of the highest-rated temperature resistances of 550 degrees. This is fantastic as a dual-use paint. We especially recommend the 6-packs on this product because of the overall savings per can and because there are so many other potential uses in accenting with this.
If all you are worried about is how good your wheels will look after a full restoration and paint, this is the paint we would recommend. It has fantastic flaking on the metallic selections. The glossy finishes are reflective, and the few matte options also stand up to scrutiny.
The biggest downside of this product other than the price is just how massive the paint itself is. The spray feel is slightly different if you do not shake it exceptionally vigorously. This is to be expected with the extreme heat rating. It is just something that may be difficult to adjust to or learn with.
We recommend this product to people looking for intense colors that don’t mind spending an extra few dollars on a can to get a perfect finish. We would also recommend having some previous automotive painting experience because this paint is not very forgiving and can get goopy if you are not careful. Again, always read the instructions on the can. They do matter and are different from brand to brand.

Pros
Quick Dry
Many Colors Available
Heavy Coating

Cons
Difficult Application
Expensive
Requires Extra Prep

9. Rust-Oleum 260510 Automotive 2 In 1 Primer

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Why we like it: Rust-Oleum enters with a competitive 2-in-1 primer at a low price with decent coverage.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Size: 12 oz Cans, Single,
Colors: Gray
Finish: Primer
Coming in at under $8 is a huge selling point and one that Rust-Oleum doesn’t want to give up because frankly, in comparison to the other primers available, that’s about all it has going for it. 2-in-1 filler primers have to be good enough to fill those millimeter-sized scratches and give you good coverage. This paint gets the coverage right, but the “filler” seems to be missing or just not the best.
As you can probably tell, this is not one of the premier primers on the market, but its price does make up for that somewhat. We like products that do exactly what they are advertised to do. This sadly fails on that front. The nozzles on these cans can be drippy and are not high quality.
However, what keeps this product relevant is its ability to get full coverage with many coats out of this one can. It has a swift drying time of around 10-15 minutes and does an outstanding job for priming darker base coats. The color on the cap is a bit deceiving. The primer itself is quite dark, especially after the three or four recommended coats.
If you are looking for a cheap primer and don’t care about the filler because either you already filled with Bondo or have new wheels, this is the way to go. Low cost is rarely a good sign for automotive paint, but this does fulfill the needs of priming, just not filling.

Pros
Cheap
Good Coverage
Quick Dry Time

Cons
Filler Doesn’t Work
Lid Doesn’t Match Color
Nozzle Drips & Leaks

10. Plasti Dip Rim Kit

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Why we like it: Plasti Dip offers an all-in-one package for people looking to do a solid black non-permanent finish on their rims.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Size: 6-11 oz. Cans w/Cangun Grip
Colors: Black with Glossifier
Finish: Gloss
This is an exciting product that could quickly be the best wheel paint in the world or the worst. It depends on what exactly you are looking for. Like other Plasti Dip, this is a removable non-permanent finish that can be peeled off when you are done with the look or are looking to sell your vehicle.
This specific package comes in just under $55 and includes four cans of their black Plasti Dip spray and two cans of the glossifier, which acts as the clear coat in this application. This will generally be enough for the most common wheel sizes. If you are unsure as to how Plasti Dip works, check out this video by DipYourCar.
One common complaint relating to this kit is that the glossifier is somewhat inconsistent. Our advice would be the “clear coat” in this instance is entirely optional, although recommended. If you decide that after getting a good solid black coating that you like how it looks, just skip the glossifier as it can, unfortunately, take away from the look it has.
Remember that this paint product is not permanent. If you mess up, you can peel and try again. This is probably the best option for someone who is just learning how to paint wheels or automotive parts and is worried about ruining something or changing something permanently and regretting it later.
Overall, this kit, with its added glossifier and Cangun bonus, is impressive. We’d recommend to even complete beginners. Quality, durability, and ease of use is the name of the game that Plasti Dip is playing, and they hit a home-run with this product right here.

Pros
Great Price
High Durability
Removable/Non-Permanent
Unique Look

Cons
Non-Permanent
Requires Careful Prep

Complete Buyers Guide to Spray Paint for Wheels
You decided you wanted to paint your wheels but then remembered you ran into the curb at McDonald’s at 3 am the other night. It’s okay, ‘tis but a flesh wound. This section will be going over exactly what you need to repair wheel rash, chips, and scratches on your rims to get the best possible paint finish.
How To: Prep, Repair, Prime, & Paint Rims
On average, to get your rims professionally refinished and painted, it will cost somewhere between $100-$250 per wheel depending on location and overall wheel condition. This is quite expensive, but the good news is that it will cost you significantly less to do independently.
On average, if you follow this guide, it will cost around $100-$150 to do a full set of wheels, with a primer, base coat, and clear coat finish. This is much more affordable for the average consumer, but there is one downside, time. Even the most seasoned detailers will spend close to three hours per wheel, not including the time spent in between coats.
Weekend projects are great time sinks, and painting your wheels is no different. Plan on popping open some cold drinks, ordering some delivery, and spending time perfecting your ride.
Once you’ve got your primer, base coat and clear coat ready, here’s what else you’ll need.
Other Tools
Bondo
Sandpaper
Cangun Grip
Sanding Block
Gloves
Face Mask
Goggles or Safety Glasses
Index Cards
Masking Tape
Prep Your Wheels
Before starting, you will want to remove any wheel weights with a flathead screwdriver; they should just come off without much hassle.
Next, if your wheels are separated from your tires, remove the wheel stem using needle-nose pliers. If you have not removed the tires from the rim, that’s fine; just make sure to cover it with some 3M Automotive Masking Tape. Index cards staggered between the lip of the rim, and the tire itself will keep the tire’s sidewall clean.
Cleaning
You are going to need to clean the wheels with some soapy water and a towel. Remember to use warm or hot water. Automotive degreaser will also work if there is a lot of dirt and muck on the rims. If you are still having problems removing some excess dirt, a Scotch-Brite or rough sponge may help.
It is important to clean both sides of your wheel because you wouldn’t want to touch the backside of your rim, get grease or oil on your hands and transfer that to the clean side.
We recommend painting both sides of your wheels, especially if you are going from black to a different color, as the backside will sometimes be visible.
More than anything else, don’t rush the cleaning. It will be significantly harder to utilize the Bondo if the rims are still dirty. Make sure the wheels are dry before continuing.
Repair Your Wheels
For deep gouges and curb rash, you will need Bondo Metal Filler to fill the indentations and imperfections in the steel or aluminum. However, before you get to the filling, you’re going to want to sand down the wheel.
Sanding the Wheels
Start with the deeper gouges and scratches. You’re going to use some 80-grit sandpaper to even out these imperfections. When using the 80-grit, you will want to sand down to the bare metal below the original finish.
The sanding process must eliminate that gouge. For curb rash, you can use the same 80-grit sandpaper, or if you have a rotary tool with a brush head, that is also very effective.
Before moving on to the metal filler, make sure you blow off any dust on the surface of the wheel because that may cause inconsistencies in both the paint and the filler.
Finally, go over the entire surface of the rim with rubbing alcohol and a clean towel. Once you can rub down the wheel with a clean towel and cannot see any excess dirt, then and only then can you proceed to use the filler.
Using the Filler
Read the instructions on the container. There is a ratio for the included hardener and the filler that is important to get right but is relatively easy. If you purchased the 3M Bondo Metal Filler, the lid is 3 inches in diameter; this will be used to mix the hardener and filler.
Put a half-inch (deep) of filler on the lid, make sure it is covered to the lip, and then add the recommended 35 drops of hardener. Now you can knead it back and forth with the included mini-spatula and spread it out. The Bondo will generally harden after about 20-30 minutes, so this is where you’re going to want to hurry a little bit.
Now, you have the clean wheel and prepared Bondo; you’re going to want to start filling any of the damaged spots that you sanded down previously. Don’t worry about leaving too much Bondo in the damaged sections. If needed, you can sand it down later, right before painting.
Make sure to force the Bondo into any of the gaps left from the sanding. If you have gloves, you can use your fingers to shape it into the right form. Let it dry for 20 minutes. Remember, it’s all going to be sanded one more time before paint or primer is ever applied.
Sand Your Wheel Again
Next, sand the entire wheel smooth using 80-grit sandpaper—sand down all the areas that you used Bondo to repair the damaged wheel. You can use a sanding block for the flat sections if you have one as it makes the whole process much more expeditious.
For the areas with the curb rash, you will just hand sand it on the wheel’s lip without using the block. Spread the sandpaper around the lip tightly and go all the way around the wheel, careful not to stay on one section too long.
Finally, sand down the entire wheel surface with 320-grit sandpaper. This is to smoothen the entire face of the rim to allow for better adhesion of the primer and paint to follow. Make sure the wheel is completely clean using rubbing alcohol and a fresh paper towel.
Prime Your Wheels
At this point, you’re ready to paint.
You will want to use a primer filler to fill the final few gaps left by both sanding processes. For the first coat, don’t worry about covering the entire surface of the wheel. This is generally referred to as glazing the wheel. Specifically, this initial process is a standard side-to-side sweep of back and forth motion so that the wheel gets dusted or “glazed” with primer.
Let it dry for about fifteen minutes, and you can move on to the second coat.
Primer coat number two is similar but this time, try to get more of the surface covered in paint. Make sure to change your angles to get the crevices coated in primer. You don’t want to miss something and then have to come back to it later.
The third coat of primer should be a total and complete coverage of your wheel. There should be no bare metal or exposed base at this point. This should be your final coat before you choose colored paint. In specific scenarios in which there was significant damage to the wheel, you may want to do a fourth coat. This is to ensure the paint sticks and that the primer fills any gaps.
When the final coat of primer has been drying for at least an hour, you can then go about sanding down the entire surface of the wheel with 600-grit sandpaper. There is no need to wet-sand your wheels. You don’t want water getting into the primer; it just makes your wait time significantly longer. The whole point of sanding is to ensure that the wheel is smooth and ready for paint.
Wipe down your wheels with rubbing alcohol and a fresh towel, and once they dry, you can start painting.
Painting Your Wheels
Now, the moment you’ve been waiting for, for at least a few hours, due to all the prep, priming, and sanding. Let’s get to painting the wheels.
If you have decided to go with a metallic variety of paint, make sure you shake the can very well. Metallic paints run very easily and can ruin all that work you just did if you mess this part up. Fear not, it may sound daunting, but it’s really simple if you follow this one rule. More light coats with minimal coverage are always better than a thick single or double coat. Don’t rush.
Using the same method of side-to-side spraying, lightly coat each wheel. Keeping the nozzle farther away is always better. Make sure to keep an eye out for a drippy nozzle as that sometimes occurs.
You will probably do between 3 and 5 coats per wheel, depending on the color, finish, and humidity. Once you are happy with the look of the wheels, let them dry.
Once the wheels have dried, repeat the same process with your clear coat, two light coats, then one final thicker coat with complete coverage. Let them dry, and congratulations, you have just learned how to repair professionally, refinish, prime and paint a set of wheels.
FAQ
Can I Use Any Paint on My Wheels?
You should only use specifically designed temperature resistant automotive wheel paint, along with a primer and a clear coat. Normal paint will struggle with the high heat of the wheels and will melt, strip away and cause other issues.
Do I Have to Use Primer?
No. If you are using a Plasti Dip or vinyl spray, you do not need to prime your wheels. For any conventional paint, it is highly recommended to prime your wheels.
Final Thoughts
Painting your wheels personalizes and reinvigorates the look of your vehicle. There are many different options for color and finish. Whether you are looking for a sleek matte black or a wacky lime green, there are so many fun and exciting directions you can take. If you’re looking for other ways to adorn your car and are thinking of painting the whole body of your vehicle, our article on best paint guns for cars might be of interest. Happy trails. More

RVs are a great way to see the world and enjoy the outdoors without leaving behind the creature comforts of home. You can pull off the highway and find a nice, quiet spot to stop and watch the sunset. Then, seconds after sundown, there’s an awful chugging. Suddenly your neighbor’s generator comes to life, and the whole park is drowned in a sea of exhaust fumes. “If only there was a better way!” you grumble as you claw your way back into the safety of your rig.
There is. Just like the solar panels you can buy for your house, you can have an incredible solar array on your RV. In this guide, we will arm you with all the information you need to buy your own RV solar kit, starting with a short guide. We’ll then give you the ten best kits along with our reviews. Finally, we’ll aim to provide you an in-depth guide and answer any questions you might still have at the bottom.

Shining Light On Solar Kits
Adding solar to your RV can seem really complicated. In this quick guide, we will break down the different parts and take the mystery away so you can confidently buy the kit that suits your lifestyle.
Solar Basics
At the core, photovoltaic cells (PV), the fancy way to say solar panels, take sunlight, and convert it into DC voltage. That’s straightforward enough.
DC vs. AC
Your RV likely has a few systems that run on DC, or 12v, power. The engine does, and often the water pumps, cabin lights, and warning systems do as well. DC power from solar panels can basically do everything you can do using batteries instead of turning on your generator. The problems and complications with solar arise when you want to use that power to make some popcorn in a microwave. It’s not just a microwave, but anything that runs off a normal house, or 110v, outlet.
It takes a lot of solar power to make a microwave run, and the only way to get a lot of solar power is to have a lot of solar panel surface area. An RV simply does not have the space for big systems. Then, just to add extra problems to the mix, microwaves don’t run on DC power; they run on AC power. You can’t just plug in some solar panels into your electrical panel and get satisfactory results.
Batteries and Inverters
Fear not, brave citizens, there is a solution. Instead of trying to run the microwave off solar power, you can run it off batteries. Batteries can hold a lot of energy. With the help of a device called an inverter, they can easily power your microwave.
Solar panels are really good at charging batteries. Any household battery charger you plugin works by sending a small amount of DC voltage to a battery over a long time, exactly how a solar panel operates. That means a solar kit has to use the sun to charge batteries, and then you can use the batteries to power your appliances. It’s nice when everything works out.
The Major Parts of a Solar System
No, we aren’t talking about the planets; we are talking about everything you need to utilize solar power on your RV. We’ll get a lot more in-depth about each component down in the full guide.
For now, just know that a kit can contain some or all of these components. Any parts not contained in the kit are components you will have to source yourself if your RV doesn’t already have them.
Panels: The panels can be either Monocrystalline or Polycrystalline panels are cheaper but make less power for the size.
Wires: Wires, plugs, and connectors transport power from the PV array to other components.
Charge Controller: A charge controller regulates the amount of power going into the batteries, so they don’t explode.
Batteries: Batteries hold onto the power so you can use it at your convenience. Conventional lead-acid batteries, like the ones in your car, are not preferred for use in modern systems. Instead, AGM batteries or the more expensive, more efficient Lithium batteries are what you need.
Inverter: The inverter converts DC power from the batteries into AC power for the outlets. We’ll discuss inverters in-depth later on. Be aware that many RVs have an inverter installed already.
Extras: Kits can contain a variety of extras, like battery monitors, USB chargers for phones and lights, and fuse/breaker panels for convenient wiring.
How Much Solar Do You Need?
The short answer to the question is that you need enough wattage from solar as it takes to make sure your batteries are full after a full day of sunlight, and you need enough batteries to run all the appliances you want to run. An online calculator like this one can make it easy to calculate.
Unfortunately, there are still a lot of variables. How much sun you get, how many batteries you have room for and plan on buying, how much room you have for the solar panels, and perhaps most importantly, how much you can afford.
Rather than worry too much about getting the biggest, nicest solar kit on the market, our advice is to start small and expand over time. Adding solar panels or batteries is the easy part once the rest of the installation is done. Even if you get a system that isn’t quite what you need, you can always add more panels in the future.
With that short overview out of the way, let’s get into the reviews. It’s important to note that the best system for you may not be the one we think is the best. The best one for you is the one that fits your budget, power requirements, and space constraints. You will likely have to compromise on one of those categories, so we include a description of who each kit is best for in our reviews.

Top 10 Best RV Solar Kits 2020
1. Best Overall RV Solar Kit: Renogy 200 Watt

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Why we like it: It’s a high-quality starter system that is perfect for getting into the PV world.
Editor’s Rating:

Facts
Wattage: 200
PV Type: Monocrystalline
Batteries: Not Included
What’s In The Kit?
In the kit, you get mounting brackets, wires, and a charge controller. One of the things that set Renogy apart is their cabling. We know that doesn’t sound really exciting, but they have these super easy to install boxes that house all the connections and junctions. That makes the entire install one of the cleanest you can get.
You’ll have to source your own batteries, which is unfortunate. That’s standard, though; only a few kits are like the WindyNation kit on our list and actually include batteries in the package. The good news is that this Renogy kit comes standard with a lithium ready charge controller, so you won’t have to upgrade it if you decide to invest in high-end batteries.
Who’s It Best For?
This is the perfect kit for someone that wants to do things on a budget but doesn’t want to sacrifice quality. Especially if that person wants to upgrade items in the future. The panels are high efficiency and can stand up to a lot of abuse. They will last long enough that when you upgrade, you will be adding more panels, not replacing them.
200w with 2 batteries is a great amount for small to medium RVs and trailers, and it’s a perfect starting point for larger rigs. The lack of included batteries lends itself well to being a starter system, too. Your RV probably already has a small battery bank, so you can still upgrade to solar and then upgrade your batteries later.
Our Thoughts
This is easy. If you are on a budget and want to build a system over time and want to make sure that the system is high-quality when you are done, get this kit.
Just buy it with the knowledge that it’s not complete yet. It doesn’t come with fuses or blocks; you’ll have to buy those separately or use the existing ones on your RV. It doesn’t come with batteries and it doesn’t come with an inverter – it’s just some nice solar panels and a charger.
We have two kits on our list that are more complete: the WindyNation 400 watt and the ECO-WORTHY 1kw. They both have batteries and inverters. They are also more than four times the cost of this kit and require a lot more work.

Pros
Easy to install
Panels are high-quality
The charge controller is one of the better ones available

Cons
Doesn’t include batteries
Doesn’t include some smaller components like fuses

2. Best Premium Kit: WindyNation 400 Watt w/ Batteries

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Why we like it: This kit is everything you need to install solar on your RV.
Editor’s Rating:

Facts
Wattage: 400
PV Type: Polycrystalline
Batteries: 4 100ah AGM
What’s In The Kit?
Everything. You get four AGM batteries with an inverter to maximize their use. You get four 100w solar panels and all the wiring to hook them up. You get a charge controller and mounting hardware.
You don’t get a battery meter, which is unfortunate. You also are only getting polycrystalline panels. We wish that WindyNation had chosen to go with monocrystalline panels like the Renogy kit uses. The price is already steep so it wouldn’t cost that much more, and you’d get another 50w or so from the same amount of space.
Who’s It Best For?
Do you have a larger trailer or RV, but you don’t want to spend time sourcing out any of your own parts? Then this kit is perfect since it has everything you need. Smaller rigs can get by with the WindyNation 100 Watt, but anything with a/c, a microwave, and a TV really needs 300-400 watts and 3 batteries. This kit has 400 watts and 4 batteries, so you are good to go.
Our Thoughts
It’s nice when you buy a DIY kit for a project, and it actually has all the parts you need to finish the project. That’s what this kit is. It’s just everything you need to install a 400w solar system onto your rig.
We have two big complaints. They aren’t really deal-breakers because they are easy to fix down the road with a few upgrades, but we would gladly accept a higher price if WindyNation had just included them in the kit. Like we mentioned before, the first is that we wish they had gone with higher-quality monocrystalline panels.
The second is that we wish they included a pure wave inverter like the one Go Power has. The modified wave inverter included in this kit isn’t terrible, but it’s not much more expensive to get something far less likely to hurt sensitive electronics.

Pros
Includes batteries
Generates enough power for larger RVs
Includes an inverter

Cons
Solar panels could be better quality
The inverter could be better quality too

3. Best Starter System: WindyNation 100 Watt w/ Battery

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Why we like it: It includes everything you need to get started, even the battery.
Editor’s Rating:

Facts
Wattage: 100
PV Type: Polycrystalline
Batteries: 1 100ah AGM
What’s In The Kit?
This kit is ¼ of the big WindyNation kit. It has one 100 watt panel instead of four, it has one battery instead of four, and it has a few wires instead of a ton. It does use the same framework as the big system, though, so upgrading at a later point in time is easy. Adding panels and batteries is literally a plug and play process.
It doesn’t have an inverter, though. It also doesn’t come with fuses or junctions or anything; it’s just a charger, wires, a panel, and a battery. You may even want to source your own cables. The included wiring is 10 AWG, but 8 is recommended for 20ft runs.
Who’s It Best For?
The quality of the WindyNation panel and charger is a step below the quality of the Renogy system. The big difference is that WindyNation includes a single AGM battery for you. If you have a small travel trailer or Class C that doesn’t already have a battery bank, then that included battery is just what the doctor prescribed.
Our Thoughts
Unlike the WindyNation 400w we recommend, we don’t really have an issue with the fact that it’s a polycrystalline panel. We don’t have an issue with the slow charge controller, either. That’s because this system is a lot less expensive. You can tell they were trying to keep the price low, and campers on a budget will appreciate that.
That being said, we do feel like they could have included an inexpensive inverter. It’s really the only thing missing from the kit. You can easily run lights, pumps, and charge your cell phone, but you wouldn’t be able to use the electric coffee pot. You can buy one here that’s a pure sine inverter and rated to 500 watts, and doesn’t cost that much. It’d just be nice if it was in the kit ready to be hooked up.

Pros
Inexpensive
Comes with a battery
It’s expandable

Cons
Doesn’t include an inverter
The quality of the components could be better

4. Best For Small RVs or Overlanders: Go Power! Weekender

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Why we like it: The Go Power! Weekender is a highly efficient system that can take a lot of abuse.
Editor’s Rating:

Facts
Wattage: 190
PV Type: Monocrystalline
Batteries: Not Included
What’s In The Kit?
Included is a high-efficiency panel, wiring, Bluetooth controller, install kit, and pure sine inverter. The pure sine inverter is one of the nicest inverters on our list. With 1500 watts of power, you can run multiple appliances at once, and the “pure sine” part of the description means that you won’t risk hurting any sensitive electronics.
It does not include a battery, but it is set up to be wired into a 30amp service. That’s great if you have a class C that already has a battery bank, but useless if you don’t have batteries already.
Who’s It Best For?
This kit is best for anyone that has a smaller rig and not a lot of roof space. We’re talking about overlanders who only have a few square feet of the truck cab to work with, van campers, and people with teardrop trailers. Everything about the Go Power system is centered around quality and efficiency so you can get the most power from a limited space.
Other solutions for lack of space usually involve collapsible panels, like the XINPUGUANG kit we recommend. Or they are fairly low power like this ACOSYSTEM kit. The Go Power kit is robust, hard mounted, and can still get you enough power to run whatever appliance you need.
Our Thoughts
The Go Power kit is a really high-quality version of the much less expensive WindyNation kit here. That quality shows through in the attention to detail. They actually include a fuse link and a plug for a 30amp service.  Other kits don’t include those things.
That price will turn many people away, though, especially since you will still have to source some batteries to take full advantage of it.

Pros
High-quality
Includes a pure sine inverter
Kit includes 30amp hookup

Cons
Doesn’t include any batteries
Expensive

5. Most Portable: ACOPOWER 100W

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Why we like it: It’s waterproof, sits on a portable stand, and is easy to set up.
Editor’s Rating:

Facts
Wattage: 100
PV Type: Monocrystalline
Batteries: Not Included
What’s In The Kit?
The entire kit is a weatherproof panel that you have to set up and a simple charge controller. That makes it the kit with the least number of parts on our lists, so if there’s anything else you’d like to have, you’ll have to buy it yourself.
Who’s It Best For?
The biggest advantage of this kit is that you don’t have to mount it to your RV. You just carry it outside, set it up facing the sun, and clip it to your battery. Small trailers, camper vans, and truck campers will benefit from this kit the most since the engine battery is often the only battery on these types of rigs.
It’s also a great kit to buy if you just are not ready to commit to a system you have to install. Since all you have to do is unfold it and throw it down, you don’t have to install anything and risk putting holes in the roof of your RV.
Our Thoughts
We have two big categories of solar kits on our list. Big kits, like the WindyNation 400w or the Go Power 190w, are like residential solar systems. They are installed like residential systems, they work similarly, and you use them the same way you would use 110v power at your house.
The other category is more general purpose. These general-purpose solar kits don’t work like home solar. Kits like this ACOPOWER 100w or the even more portable GVSHINE 30w won’t power your appliances. They work best to keep cell phones or other devices charged, or for running low voltage LED lights. You can use them to charge batteries, but it will take a while since they need to be set up every time you stop. Unlike mounted systems, you can’t charge while driving down the road.
If you don’t need all the comforts of home, you can save a lot of money and get one of these convenient kits. If you take your RV out into the woods to actually enjoy the woods and not enjoy a football game on the TV, then the quiet, easy to transport ACOPOWER 100w is perfect.

Pros
Portable
Inexpensive
Easy to set up

Cons
Doesn’t include an inverter or batteries
Not good for running appliances

6. Best Budget: HQST 100 Watt

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Why we like it: It’s inexpensive, but it still includes enough power to be useful for appliances.
Editor’s Rating:

Facts
Wattage: 100
PV Type: Polycrystalline
Batteries: Not Included
What’s In The Kit?
This kit is neat because you actually get a lot of extras for the price. It comes with the standard panel, wires, and brackets like most kits do. It also comes with a junction box, LCD readout screen, and a charge controller that can handle a large variety of batteries.
The issue is that none of those parts are great quality. They work, but you can tell that the panel is less sturdy than others by the way it flexes as you work with it. The LCD screen is more like an old calculator than an iPhone, and the included wires are too thin to run longer distances.
Who’s It Best For?
If you saw the Renogy kit and thought it looked perfect, but you recoiled at the price, this is the kit for you. Even if you opt to double the power output to 200w by buying an extra panel, it’s still quite a lot cheaper than the Renogy kit.
You will need to source some batteries, but since this kit is great for a budget build, you won’t feel bad taking the extra time to get a really good deal. Most junkyards have AGM batteries from all manner of junked RV and industrial trucks. Bring the yard attendant some donuts and ask them for the good neighbor discount. You can probably get all the batteries you can carry for less than the price of one new lithium.
Our Thoughts
We get it; sometimes, price is the biggest factor when choosing, well, anything. That’s the reason we make these lists. We want people to get the best value for their money that they can, and a big part of that is making sure that even the inexpensive products we recommend will still do what people need them to do.
That’s what the HQST kit is; a product that is inexpensive but will still do what you need it to do. In this case, it will charge batteries and power lights. It won’t do much more than that unless you upgrade the system at a later time. They cost so little, though, that you’ll have money for upgrades when you need them.

Pros
Inexpensive
Includes a charge monitor
Easy to expand

Cons
Quality could be better
You’ll want to buy different wiring

7. Best Space Saving: XINPUGUANG 100w Flexible

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Why we like it: These flexible solar panels are easy to take with you and set up on the go.
Editor’s Rating:

Facts
Wattage: 200
PV Type: Monocrystalline
Batteries: Not Included
What’s In The Kit?
Two high quality flexible solar panels and a charge controller. Although, if you check the listing, you can actually get this kit with up to 10 flexible panels. 200 watts is enough power to charge 2 batteries without much issue. 1000 watts is enough that you could run a microwave without the batteries.
That’s it, though. You don’t get batteries, inverters, mounting hardware, or anything else. It would be nice if they included some kind of mounting assistance. Even if it’s just suction cups that have hooks on them.
Who’s It Best For?
These panels walk the line between a portable system like the ACOPOWER 100w, and a hard-mounted system like the Renogy. They produce more power than most portable systems but are still considered portable since they don’t mount to the roof. They are flexible and easy to carry around, but they aren’t as simple to set up as a truly portable system.
That makes them the perfect thing for people who will travel out to a destination and stay in one spot for a few days. You drive in, roll out the panels, and you’ll have adequate power during your stay. The big advantage of the flexible panels is that you don’t need any roof space. RVs and trailers like an Airstream that wouldn’t be able to accept a standard panel mount because they have a curved roof are excellent contenders for flexible panels like this.
Our Thoughts
Solar panels come in all shapes and sizes nowadays. These flexible panels are a great example of innovation in the solar industry. They don’t have to be mounted flat, and the biggest advantage is that they don’t take up very much room. They don’t have an aluminum frame or glass top taking up space.
That makes them ideal for anyone that is space limited or who may have to take the panels inside from time to time. Even if you don’t own an RV and are just adding solar to your outhouse for private TV time, you don’t want solar panels out in the elements during strong winds or hail. With these flexible panels, you can just pull them down and stack them out of the way inside.

Pros
Can charge batteries quickly
Flexible panels can conform to unusual surfaces
They are easy to store when not in use

Cons
Can be hard to set up
You have to set them up somewhere when you stop

8. Best for High Energy Needs: ECO-WORTHY 1KW

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Why we like it: 1KW is enough to power anything.
Editor’s Rating:

Facts
Wattage: 1000
PV Type: Monocrystalline
Batteries: 2 100ah AGM
What’s In The Kit?
This is the biggest kit on our list. You get three times the number of panels as the Renogy kit we recommend, and it comes with two batteries. It also has a standard charge controller, plenty of wiring, and a gigantic 3500w pure sine inverter.
Those six panels generate over a kilowatt of power. To put that in perspective, if you run a small AC, your TV, and make toast all at the same time, you’ll still have power left over.
Who’s It Best For?
There are two types of people that would really benefit from a kit this large. Both of them need to own larger RVs. Each panel is a little over two feet wide and a little under five feet long. That means you need 60 square feet of roof space. That’s more than the total square footage of roof space on the average class C RV.
The first type of person who can benefit from a large system like this is the type of person who uses an RV as a more permanent home. If you regularly use appliances during the day, this solar kit will run them without charging batteries. That way, you can park anywhere, even if they don’t have hookups, and enjoy all the amenities you get from running the generator without burning the fuel.
The second type is the RV owner with a big family. It’s hard for one or two people to use more than a few hundred watts in a day when you are at camp. It’s easy for 5 people with cellphones, laptops, Nintendos, and a constant need to open and close the fridge for the fifteenth time to use a ton of power over the course of a day. If you’re running a washer/dryer combo for example, the extra power might be needed.
Our Thoughts
This kit is gigantic, costs a lot, and generates way more power than the average RV crew can use. For most campers, the WindyNation 400w is more than adequate. There’s only so much popcorn you can pop, after all.
If you do need a lot of power, though, then it’s a very nice kit. The pure sine inverter is one of the higher quality inverters you can buy, and the two included batteries will expand your storage capacity. If you plan on being off-grid for a while or just have a lot of friends that you want to take road tripping, there’s no better value than this kit.

Pros
Generates a lot of power
Has an excellent inverter
Includes batteries

Cons
Takes up a lot of space
Expensive

9. Best Simple Travel Kit: GVSHINE 30W Panel Foldable

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Why we like it: It’s a simple kit that includes lights and USB charging. It’s perfect for small trailers or tent campers.
Editor’s Rating:

Facts
Wattage: 30
PV Type: Polycrystalline
Batteries: 1 14ah Lithium
What’s In The Kit?
This is a really fun kit. The battery isn’t a standard AGM or RV battery; it’s a green brick with a handle on it so you can carry it around. The solar panel is the size of a laptop when it’s folded up, and the kit includes lights that automatically turn on with motion.
It’s not a kit that will charge batteries or run appliances. The 30w panel only generates ⅓ the power of the portable ACOPOWER panel, and that’s not enough power to even try to run a microwave. It will charge a phone, power a tablet, and run a handful of lights, though.
Who’s It Best For?
The perfect place for this kit is in the trunk of the car towing an older camper trailer. Or anyone with smaller trailers, or people who bring tents with them when they go out RVing. Anywhere that you won’t have access to batteries or don’t have an electrical system installed already.
One of the neat things about this kit is that it’s incredibly portable, so while it is great for lighting up an RV or campsite, it’s also great to just have around your house in case the power goes out. It’s also great for keeping in your truck for emergency cell phone power.
Our Thoughts
The GVSHINE solar kit’s greatest strength is also its greatest weakness. It’s tiny and easy to set up. That makes it perfect for lights, but it can’t charge a big battery or run a water pump.
Not everyone needs to run appliances, though. For a large number of outdoorsy types, even the lights and cell phone charging are a luxury that they usually wouldn’t have. This unit is fantastic for that.

Pros
Very portable
Battery and panels don’t take up much space
Has lights and USB chargers included

Cons
The battery can’t run appliances
The panel won’t charge larger RV batteries

10. Best Kit With A Backup Source: ECO-WORTHY Wind and Solar

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Why we like it: It includes a wind turbine so you can weather storms just as well as days in the sun.
Editor’s Rating:

Facts
Wattage: 100 (solar) 400 (wind)
PV Type: Monocrystalline
Batteries: Not Included
What’s In The Kit?
Most of this kit is fairly standard. You get a panel, a charge controller, some cables, and some brackets. When it comes to solar, this kit is pretty much exactly the same as the budget HQST kit.
What really sets it apart – and the reason to buy this kit instead of any others – is the wind turbine. The 400w wind turbine is a great way to generate green energy without relying on the sun.
Who’s It Best For?
The easy answer is that it’s for anyone that uses their RV as a base. If you are scientists out doing research or living on a remote constructing site, then you want as many options as you can get to make sure your power never runs out. Especially if you go to a place that doesn’t get very much sunlight, like Seattle or Alaska in winter.
In our view, the person who is going to gravitate towards this kit the most are those with a strong interest in green energy. It’s great for anyone who wants to experiment with wind power and off-grid living.
Our Thoughts
Sometimes when we write these lists, we like to include products that people might not know to exist. These products are usually not a good answer for everyone but might inspire a few people who like cutting edge gadgets or out of the box thinking. We included this kit for those people.
Solar is a fantastic option for getting green power. Even though it’s low efficiency in the grand scheme of things, it is the simplest and most accessible energy production available to the average person. But it has a lot of drawbacks. It takes up a lot of surface area, it doesn’t work unless it’s in direct sunlight, and it’s susceptible to damage from the weather. A wind turbine only needs moving air to generate power, and they are easy to stow if the weather takes a bad turn.
Unfortunately, this kit really is more of an entry-level product. Something for you to experiment with and engineer solutions for. It’s not really meant for an RV that’s going to be moving around all the time, and they don’t include mounting hardware that is conducive to RV use. These problems are compounded by the fact that you need a higher level of research and skill to connect everything. Wind power is more complicated to work with than the fairly constant, easy to work with solar power.

Pros
Can generate power even when you have no sunlight
Inexpensive
Is a great kit for experimenting with

Cons
Not specifically for RVs
You need to DIY a lot of components

The Big Guide to RV Solar
Welcome to our big guide. Here we will go over the benefits of solar, the finer details of the design, and answer some of the frequently asked questions surrounding RV solar.
The Pros and Cons of RV Solar
We’ll start this section by answering one of the biggest questions: why would you install solar on your RV?
The short answer is that generators are noisy and pollute, and PV arrays do not. In order to get a detailed answer, let’s compare the good and the bad parts of solar electricity.
Pros
Solar is quiet. Kits like the WindyNation 400w system can replace a loud generator. Most kits like the Renogy 200w will greatly diminish the number of times you’ll have to start the generator.
It’s an accessible way to harness green energy. Residential solar kits can easily climb into the tens of thousands of dollars. Putting solar on your RV can be as little as a few hundred bucks, and you can even experiment with wind power.
It increases the resale value of your RV.
It’s an easy way to add an electrical system to a trailer or camper that does not currently have one.
Cons
If you only camp at places with electric hookups, there’s no benefit.
It has a high initial investment cost.
Solar panels don’t work well in the rain. You may still need a gas generator as a backup.
The Parts of an RV Solar Setup

We mentioned them briefly above, but solar electric systems are made of a few core components. Here we’ll get a little more in-depth on each part and talk about what parts you may already have on your RV.
Panels
Panels are the most prominent feature of a solar panel system. The average panel is about 2ft x 5ft in size, and, unless they are flexible panels like the XINPUGUANG kit, they will have an aluminum frame that’s about 2in thick.
There are three main types. You can read about the three types here if you want the science. The two types you will come across most are monocrystalline panels and polycrystalline panels.
Monocrystalline panels are more efficient but cost more. Polycrystalline panels cost less but are less efficient. You can see it in action if you compare the Go Power Weekender with the WindyNation 100 watt. They both use a panel that is about the same size. The WindyNation panel is both significantly cheaper and produces 90 watts less than the Go Power panel does.
Wires
The wires included in kits vary a lot, and sometimes you’ll need longer wires or bigger cables for different applications. The wire is measured in gauge, then classified by material and construction. The higher the gauge, the smaller the wire. Most wires are either copper or aluminum and either solid or stranded.
There are two main things you need to know to calculate wire size: length and amperage. The best thing to do is use an online calculator like this one to make sure you are getting the right diameter and material.
Charge Controller
A charge controller is a relatively simple device. Batteries can’t handle max amperage all the time; they have to be charged in a controlled way to keep them from dying prematurely. The only significant consideration for choosing a charge controller is the type and size of battery they can charge. Most modern controllers, like the one included with the Renogy system, can handle most battery types and sizes, so it’s usually not a concern when choosing a kit.
Batteries
You’ll come across two main types of batteries in the RV world: AGM and Lithium. You can read about them here, but the basic rule is that the more charge they can hold, the more they cost. A lithium battery and an AGM battery are the same size, but the lithium battery can hold a lot more charge.
Many kits, like the Go Power kit, do not come with batteries. That’s because most RVs already have a battery bank. You may have to do some research into your RV’s electrical system to know if you want to add more batteries or upgrade them.
Inverter
Inverters turn DC voltage, the voltage from solar panels and batteries, into AC voltage, which is used to power appliances. Inverters are measured in watts and come in two main styles. Pure sine wave inverters are high-quality and are the best at emulating house voltage. Go Power and ECO-WORTHY both include these higher quality pure sine wave inverters.
Modified sine wave inverters are of lower quality and don’t produce “clean” energy. You can get into the science here. Appliances will run worse on a modified inverter, especially things like heaters and microwaves that use constant power. Some devices, like sensitive laptops or modern HD TVs, risk being damaged by modified sine waves.
Unless you are really on a strict budget, get a pure sine wave inverter. The WindyNation 400w kit comes with a modified wave inverter, and we honestly suggest you get rid of it and buy a different one.
Your RV may already have an inverter. If you can use your 110v outlets when your generator is off and you aren’t hooked up to a service, you already have an inverter. Hurray for small mercies.
Usable Power
We apologize; we realize this is a lot of information. Unfortunately, that’s the nature of solar energy. The good news is that all this information translates directly to setting up solar on your house, so if you ever plan to do that, you are already equipped with a lot of the knowledge.
DC Power
You don’t actually need an inverter to take advantage of solar panels or batteries. You can do a lot of neat things with just DC power. This GVSHINE kit here is a great example of how you can use a solar panel without needing 110 volts.
Lights, batteries of all types, pumps, starters, and specialty equipment like DC TVs and stereos can run off a simple panel and single battery setup. If the panel is big enough, you don’t even need the battery.
There are two primary voltages for RV electrical systems: 12v and 24v. You will have to do some research to find out what your RV is wired for since most kits and battery systems can be set up for either style.
AC Power
For the average person, AC power is more straightforward than DC power. It’s the power that comes out of the wall in your home. It will be 110-120v, and it’s what powers all your modern appliances. To turn the DC power from batteries or panels into AC power, you need an inverter. We discussed those more in-depth above.
Watts
Wattage is easy to calculate. You take the voltage and multiply it by the amperage. A small microwave that plugs into a standard wall outlet needs 110 volts and draws 5 amps. 110×5=550 watts.
You’ll notice that most kits, even the larger WindyNation 400w, don’t produce enough power to run that small microwave. That’s why we spent so much time in this guide talking about inverters and batteries. Having a battery bank with an inverter is the only way to power most household appliances without needing to buy a ton of solar panels, like with this kit.
FAQ

How Many Watts of Solar do I Need?
If you don’t want to use a simple online calculator like this one, head over to this webpage to learn how to do the math.
How Many Batteries Can a 100w Solar Panel Charge?
A 100-watt solar panel can output 30 amp-hours a day. An average AGM battery is rated at 100 amp hours, but you should never regularly discharge a deep cycle battery below 50%, so a single 100-watt panel will charge 2/3s of a standard AGM battery.
That’s why many kits, like the Renogy kit we recommend, come with 2 solar panels as standard, producing a total of 200w; it will charge a standard battery in one day easily.
Can You Run Your AC with Solar Panels?
The answer is yes, but only if you have the solar panels charging batteries that are hooked up to an inverter. It is very unlikely that you can run an AC on solar power alone unless you have a very large array.
Are Solar Panels for an RV Worth It?
We go over that in this section, but to make a long story short: yes, they are. Solar panels are good for your wallet in the long run, they are good for the Earth, and they can generate quiet power in remote places.
Enjoy Peaceful Power
Whether you are a hardcore RV enthusiast that regularly takes trips across the US or just a weekend pavement warrior who’s on a first-name basis with your local KOA, RV solar can make your outing more enjoyable. You won’t have to rely on hooking up to the power, and you won’t be “that guy” who starts up their generators at 6am because you need to make coffee. More

There’s no better feeling than escaping the pitfalls of modern living and getting reacquainted with nature in your RV. But as much as we love a digital detox among jaw-dropping natural scenery, there will come a time when we start to miss the comforts of home.
While an RV’s in-built 12V electrical system is capable of running a whole bunch of gadgets and gizmos—your lights, fan, water pump, and fridge, to name a few—it won’t run any 120V appliances. And that means you’ll have to forgo your favorite coffee machine, TV, blender, console, and laptop computer, etc.—unless, of course, you invest in an inverter for your RV.
Read on to learn all about the technology and discover the ten best RV inverters on the market.

Features To Consider in an RV Inverter
Before we present our top 10 list of the best RV inverters, you should understand what you’re looking at. Here’s what you need to look out for when shopping for an inverter to use in your RV.
Wattage
RV inverters are rated to a certain number of watts, which refers to the maximum power consumption of the appliance(s) they will support. Look for an inverter with a higher wattage than the most energy-hungry device you plan to use.
Surge Wattage
RV inverters are rated to withstand a certain level of surge power, which is when an appliance uses more power than usual for a brief moment. Ensure the surge rating on your inverter is higher than the potential surge spike on your biggest appliance.
Type
RV inverters come in various types: Modified Sine Wave, Pure Sine Wave, and Square Sine Wave (mostly obsolete). Although cheaper, Modified Sine Wave inverters are less efficient than Pure Sine Wave inverters and aren’t suitable for sophisticated electrical devices like computers.
Protections
The last thing you want to do is short circuit your expensive inverter because you tried to dry your hair at the same time the kids were watching TV. High-quality inverters come with a range of inbuilt protective measures to ensure they don’t melt or explode.
Size
Space is of utmost importance in any RV; there’s no point purchasing a bigger power inverter than you have to. If you’re pressed for room, or if you’re planning on moving your inverter between RVs, then a miniature portable inverter might be your best bet.
Price
Our recommended RV inverters range from $50 to $1,500, so the cost will be a crucial factor in your decision. To save money, only buy an inverter that is as powerful as you need it to be.
With these things in mind, let’s find the inverter you need to power up your RV for the road ahead.

Top 10 Best RV Inverters to Buy in 2020
1. Best RV Inverter Overall: Krieger 1500 Watts Power Inverter

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Why we like it: This no-nonsense inverter works perfectly every time and doesn’t cost an arm and a leg.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Wattage: 1500W
Surge Wattage: 3000W
Inverter Type: Modified Sine Wave
Size: 13.75 x 7.62 x 3.37 inches
Outputs: 2x AC plus 2x USB
This widely popular RV power inverter from KRIËGER is ideal for the average user. Boasting a respectable output of 1,500W (3,000W at peak), the unit is capable of complying with most RVer’s electricity requirements and comes in at a very reasonable price point.
KRIËGER has a rep for creating quality gear that’s built to last, and this particular model comes with a range of built-in protections: Over voltage, under voltage, overload, short circuit, and high temperature. The included LCD will warn the user of potential issues, and the unit comes with a lengthy three-year warranty.
We also love how small this package is—just 13 inches long for a 1,500W inverter is a rarity in this day and age. Its super silent fan is inaudible above your other RV fans, and the unit comes with four outputs (2xUSB and 2xAC) for charging multiple devices.
If you like the look of this product but don’t quite need 1,500W, the good news is it comes in several cheaper, low wattage models as well (plus a few bigger ones, too). Just be aware that it uses Modified Sine Wave technology; thus, it won’t safely charge complex electrical devices.

Pros
High-performance inverter
Multiple inbuilt protections
Handy LCD display
Good value for money
Small and compact

Cons
Modified Sine Wave isn’t suitable for computers

2. Energizer 1500 Watts Power Inverter

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Why we like it: This outstanding inverter from Energizer is just like the bunny—it “keeps going and going and going.”
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Wattage: 1,500W
Surge Wattage: 3,000W
Inverter Type: Modified Sine Wine
Size: 13.75 x 7.6 x 3.5 inches
Outputs: 2x USB and 2x AC
As one of the biggest battery brands in the world, Energizer is a name you can trust. And this high-performance 1,500W inverter does the company proud thanks to its durable design.
The Energizer converter is a viable alternative to the aforementioned 1500W KRIËGER inverter — it offers roughly the same features and performance for approximately the same price. It has a myriad of protective measures like overload, over/under voltage, short circuit, and high-temperature cut-off, rendering it safe under any conditions.
Much like the KRIËGER, you’ll also get a handy LCD to view the current input and output wattages as well as learn of any potential issues. It’s also approximately the same size, has the same number of ports, and boasts a similar silent fan—there’s not much difference between the two.
Between this and the KRIËGER, it’s a close call, but the KRIËGER has a longer three-year warranty (versus the Energizer’s two years), which gives us more confidence in its longevity. Nonetheless, they’re both excellent inverters, so you won’t go wrong with either option.
Once again, it’s a Modified Sine Wave model; thus, efficiency isn’t optimal, and it won’t safely run complex devices.

Pros
Good value for money
Trusted well-known brand
Small and compact
Multiple protective features
Long-lasting design

Cons
Two-year warranty is less than KRIËGER
Uses inferior Modified Sine Wave technology

3. Best Premium RV Inverter: Renogy 3000W 12V Pure Sine Wave Inverter

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Why we like it: Renogy’s obsession with quality and Pure Sine Wave Technology sees this system outperform its rivals.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Wattage: 3,000W
Surge Wattage: 6000W
Inverter Type: Pure Sine Wave
Size: 17.5 x 8.7x 3.7 In
Outputs: 1x USB and 3x AC
The Renogy Group has been making (sine) waves in the American RV space in recent years for its high-quality 12V products that outperform the competition. And this outstanding power inverter is no exception, with a clear and smooth electrical distribution thanks to its use of premium Pure Sine Wave technology.
This particular inverter boasts a conversion efficiency of over 90%, which reduces strain on your battery system and allows you to run your favorite devices for longer than ever before. Minimal harmonic distortion ( More

Whether it’s your vehicle or a worktop, an unloved metal surface is not only an eyesore, but it can also become a hazard. Chrome polish can help you here by allowing you to work over that surface, deal with any serious issues such as rusting, and bring out that all-important shine. Where do you start then when it comes to making a purchase, and what are the best products on the market today?

What You Need to Know About Chrome Polishes
To help you choose the right chrome polish for you, we’ve compiled all the must-know information about them here.
What Makes a Quality Chrome Polish?
There are a few different factors to consider when looking into any high-quality chrome polish brand’s formula. These will include:
Protection
Providing a long-lasting protective coating is essential. This shields chrome against the effects of the weather and oxidation; it also offers protection from the UV sunlight that hits the hood.
Application
The product you purchase will likely determine this, with some of the more general polishes being done by hand, while others may require a rotary buffer.
Texture
The polishe’s consistency will give you some idea of its purpose. For instance, a liquid solution is typically used for cleaning, and creams are typically focused on tarnishes.
Then it’s just a matter of asking yourself why the chrome polish is needed, and what you’re hoping to get out of it.
Why is Chrome Polish Necessary?
Keeping metals in good working order is vital, especially when it’s a vehicle you’re taking on the road. Primarily, though, chrome polish comes down to two factors.
Damage
This will include general rusting and scratches, along with various other tarnishes in the metal you want to seal over. The integrity of any metal must be kept to a safe standard, as you don’t want your car wearing away, which is why some level of protection is needed. Keeping rust from eating away at your vehicle is a must for all drivers.
Appearance
More of an aesthetic choice, there’ll be those out there that take a high degree of pride in exhibiting their wheels. Not many will want to drive around a rust-bucket, though, which is why there are plenty of more general chrome polishes out there too. It’s then simply a question of how shiny you want your car.
Now it’s on to choosing the polish itself and finding the right product for you.
Types of Chrome Polishes
The makeup of the chrome polish itself is something you need to consider before making any purchase. Different needs and requirements have relevant products aimed at them.
Paste
Typically for smaller, more specific jobs, dealing with more serious tarnishes and blemishes. Only needing to smooth it on over the areas affected, not much is required, which is useful when it’s limited. Here you’ll find brands like Simichrome again, getting right down to the fine details.
Cream
Best suited for working into the rust, while also removing the surface level grime. Smearing it over larger areas, it’s typically stickier in its constitution, as you can work at buffing it out. It also brings out the shine, along with clearing up any pitting or watermarks, giving it an intensive professional job.
Liquid
This is ideal for larger surface level jobs, as it’s not so strong. Still, though, it’s massively popular due to how quick and easy it is, as you only have to smear it across, before lifting it by either hand or machine. Sometimes it’s also possible to spray it on with some brands as well.
Wadding
Some brands will come with wadding already soaked in polish, which again includes Eagle One Nevr-Dull, as you break a piece off, wipe, then dispose of after use. As previously mentioned, these are best for clean up jobs, paving the way for the heavy-duty polishing work underneath.
When it comes to making the final decision, you must make sure the brand is compatible with the polishing job in question. Then it’s just a matter of applying the formula.
What to Consider in a Chrome Polish brand?
Some brands may have instant name recognition, but it’s essential not to overlook some of the smaller companies out there, as you could miss some real gems. Seeing beyond the label, you need to look at some of the primary factors underlying your purchase.
Requirements
We’ll talk more about this further down below, but to start with, taking stock of the work you’re considering is vital. For example, are you only looking to clean and shine your car, or are you looking to get rid of some severe rust? Different polishes focus on specific jobs, and you need to know this before going in.
Reliability
A familiar brand name will be a significant decider here, but there are quite a few smaller companies out there that have been flying under the radar for many, which we’ll look at in the further detail.
Pricing
You’ll find that different price brackets can give you some general indication of what you can expect from a product. For instance, at around $5 for 10 to 15 oz, you’re looking at your more general budget range. Between $10 and $15, you start to find more specialist products, especially if the amount provided is limited.
With that in mind, check out our top chrome polish picks, then go ahead and look at our in-depth guide below to get the most out of your product.

Top 10 Best Chrome Polishes 2020
1. Best Overall Chrome Polish: Blue Magic 400

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Why we like it: Entirely non-abrasive, the shiny finish of the Blue Magic will leave every chrome metal surface gleaming. It’s also easy to apply by either a machine or by hand.
Editor’s Rating:

A smaller brand, the Blue Magic Metal Polish Cream is gradually gaining recognition beyond the US with its powerful and potent formula. After application, a silicone film is left, providing lasting protection for those looking for a more vigorous polish.
Strength and Texture
One of the first things you’ll notice is the smell, as it’s incredibly intense. So make sure to apply the polish in a well-ventilated area while using a mask. You do not want to inhale this in large doses.
It’s also best to stir it up a little before use if only to make the application somewhat easier. Once you apply it, though, you can use a cloth, smear it on, and then buff it out.
Coating and Shine
Being non-abrasive with its ammonia-based formula, this leaves behind a clean, shining coat, providing an excellent finish to any metal surfaces. The opportunity to apply it using a polishing machine is perfect for wheels and various other metals. It does tend to leave behind a slightly bluish hue, but you can remove this with some extra effort, plus the help of a buffer.
Overall
Despite it coming in smaller sized containers, weighing in at 7oz per jar, it still offers better value for money than many of its competitors. As one of the more powerful cream-based chrome polishes, it’s excellent for wheels. Standing up to the most considerably oxidized metals, it’s best suited to both protecting and increasing the shine, removing any blemishes that may have occurred. While more powerful polishes are out there on the market, such as the Simichrome All Metal Polish Tube, this offers a more accessible polish for everyday use. You don’t need to use too much of it either, gaining most efficiency when using it in small amounts.

Pros
Works on all metals
Simple to apply by hand or machine, it leaves no scratches
Provides a long-lasting protective coating
Removes all effects of oxidation and tarnishes

Cons
Ventilation and masks required at all times
Can leave a bluish tinge, which means extra buffing

2. Best Premium Chrome Polish: Simichrome All Metal Polish Tube

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Why we like it: While on the more expensive end, this is a must for anyone looking for a professional job when it comes to removing any blemishes, scratches, and tarnishes.
Editor’s Rating:

On the more professional end of popular chrome polish brands is Simichrome, a relative newcomer to the market. Still, while it may be a younger brand, it more than proves itself, with this premium polish flying into second place.
Strength and Texture
Likely to be the most potent product on this list, you’ll be purchasing Simichrome for its ability when tackling the toughest tarnishes and markings. Highly regarded by professionals, it’s well known for its strength, making it a more than formidable contender. When using the chrome polish paste, it’s best applied in smaller, more manageable chunks when smoothing it onto any metal surface.
Coating and Shine
Restoring metal surfaces to their original condition, this will bring out the natural shine in an instant. Leaving a longer-lasting protective coating too, it retains its shininess, keeping it from tarnishing and rusting further. On top of that, there’s few, if any, toxic substances that will damage the metal chrome surface.
Overall
A major draw for this particular polish is the rate at which it works, clocking in at around all of thirty seconds. The speed factor will appeal to both those looking for a professional job and those on the go. While it may work quickly, though, you’ll find that it’s best applied by hand, targeting smaller, more stubborn marks. Being one of the more professional products, it does need to be handled with care, as it can potentially ruin a finish if not used properly. That said, it’s one the best when it comes to seeing the finished results fast.

Pros
Acting in under 30 seconds, it’s one of the fastest chrome polishes around
Doesn’t contain toxic substances that damage surfaces
Provides a robust, long-lasting protective coating
Highly effective on any metal surface, restoring it to new

Cons
One of the most expensive polishes, it needs to be used sparingly
Not so useful for general cleaning

3. Best Budget Chrome Polish: Mothers California Gold

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Why we like it: Simple to apply, this is ideal for anyone looking for a fast-acting, affordable chrome polish, efficiently protecting for everyday use.
Editor’s Rating:

One of the cheapest chrome polishes out there, Mothers, is a much-beloved brand with car enthusiasts. It’s perfect for giving surfaces a brisk run over with its quick and easy application, cleaning them up, making them as good as new.
Strength and Texture
With a reasonably thick consistency, this particular chrome polish has a creamy texture to it that’s soft when applying. Giving more of a gentle clean, it provides a powerful polish that gets the job done. Offering a smooth mixture, it’s potent, yet typically doesn’t smear or streak across surfaces.
Coating and Shine
Using an advanced polymer formula for the coating, it maintains its shine long after application. It also offers a robust safeguard against any rusting or oxidation that may occur over time. Brightening the surface, it cleans it up, bringing out the shine, restoring the metal as close to its original state as possible.
Overall
There are other multipurpose cleaners, such as the Quick Glo Chrome Cleaner, which are simple to use. Still, when seriously tackling those surfaces on a budget, Mothers excels. Restoring and preserving most metal surfaces, this offers an all-around polish and clean for a reasonable price. There’s no fear of scratching either, with it being soft and smooth, as it’s applied with a minimum of fuss. With it being cheaper too, there’s also the option of using it more often, regularly giving the metals a touch-up.

Pros
Inexpensive and straightforward, it’s easy to apply
Great for rusting and spotting, along with everyday protection, such as fingerprints
Can safely come into contact with other surfaces, including glass and mirrors
Perfect for bumpers and wheels

Cons
Not so good on older metals
Can take some effort, as sometimes leaves a clouded effect with swirl marks

4. Best Heavy-Duty Chrome Polish: Chemical Guys Heavy Metal Polish Restorer and Protectant

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Why we like it: This ideal for any heavy-duty cleaning jobs, with its significant restorative properties removing any adverse signs of rust and oxidation.
Editor’s Rating:

When it comes to more damaged metal surfaces, this is the product many look to in their time of need. Providing a heavy-duty formula as it says in the title, this is predominantly for tackling weightier metal surfaces.
Strength and Texture
Using either a machine or cloth, the formula itself is relatively easy to apply to any surface, although it’s typically best on heavy metals. Smoothing it in, it’s a powerful chrome polish, although they do offer a lighter brand as well. Use that afterward, though, as the heavy metal polish does hold some considerable power behind it.
Coating and Shine
With a UV block mixed in protecting against sunlight, along with a protective sealant, it’s both sturdy and robust. It may not fill the deep scratches buried within the metal, but it does pad out the lighter ones, giving the surface a nice glossy coat. Leaving behind a sparkle and shine, it’s perfect for supplementing other brands when it comes to polishing.
Overall
Removing light rusting from the surface with ease, Chemical Guys is an excellent product for clearing up any extensive external damage. The Heavy Metal Polish offers a reasonably powerful protective sealant, though, perhaps most notable for its UV protection. Because of this, it’s ideal for holding back any weather damage, making it useful for when it comes to extensive use outdoors.

Pros
Can be applied easily by either hand or machine
Offers more robust protection for heavier metals
Clears up any tarnishes or other contamination
Leaves a shiny layer of protection

Cons
The amount provided in each bottle is limited
Is a little more expensive

5. Best Cleansing Chrome Polish: Eagle One Nevr-Dull Wadding Polish

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Why we like it: With over seventy years in the field, this is one of the more reliable brands out there, providing a quality polish that covers a diverse range of metals.
Editor’s Rating:

Despite being a little more expensive, this delivers, with its ability for cleaning up a whole variety of different metal surfaces. Safe and easy to use, it insulates against all manner of outdoor wear-and-tear.
Strength and Texture
Made up of wadding fiber, you tear a piece off and polish the metal’s surface without any need for a machine or buffer. With the polish wadding being pre-soaked, it’s easy to use while also preventing any spillage or excess waste. Attacking the grease with its potent formula, this makes for a quick cleanup job that requires little else besides what’s in the container.
Coating and Shine
Primarily used for bringing out the shine, many use this on their exhaust, as it clears up the metal’s surface. Taking some of the rust off too, it smooths over the scratches bringing its sheen back almost immediately. It may not be the most substantial coating out there, but it’s notable for cleaning up quickly.
Overall
Many will testify to this because of its ease of use, requiring little work from your end. Non-abrasive to touch, it’s application is straightforward, as all you need is the tin and a cloth to wipe over before and after. Popular with motorcyclists due to the debris their exhausts pick up from being close to the ground, it lifts a lot of the muck and tar quickly and efficiently. Anyone looking for quick routine maintenance may find this chrome polish to their liking.

Pros
Well known for its versatility when it comes to metal surfaces
Great at getting rid of tar
Can be applied easily without any tools
Useful when protecting against the weather, it maintains the shine outdoors

Cons
Is a bit on the pricier end
Can dry out if not fastened tightly

6. Best Time-Saving Chrome Polish: 3M Metal and Chrome Polish

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Why we like it: A reliable brand and strong contender, this is another good quality all-rounder that offers value for money with its no-nonsense cream polish.
Editor’s Rating:

In terms of brand recognition, 3M is at the forefront of industrial goods production, working with cars for over a hundred years. With this in mind, it’s no surprise then that their chrome polish is an all-around quality product.
Strength and Texture
The texture is rough, which may be a little abrasive for higher-quality chrome, but this makes it perfectly suited for more rusted metals. Using a microfiber cloth to buff it out once you’ve applied it will help smooth it out here. With its advanced formula, what 3M also brings to the table is power, as it works into those heavier tarnishes with the slightest of ease.
You may find that the amount is slightly limited, but it does provide what you pay for, despite there being visible air pockets on occasion. That said, you don’t need all that much to make it work, as it’s most useful when applied in smaller doses.
Coating and Shine
Bringing out the natural shine of the metal, 3M provides an all-round cleanup job when it comes to some of the bigger tarnishes and rust pits. Not known for smearing, it offers a sparkling coat without needing to put in too much effort. Making it ideal for quick coatings when you only need a touch-up, it’s a great time-saver.
Overall
Like Mothers California Gold and Nevr Dull, 3M is an already well-established brand, with a whole range of industrial products behind it. It’s this that paves the way for it as a robust mid-range alternative in the chrome polish market. Effective against metal pitting, and applicable to pretty much all chrome, this is ideal for general use, keeping the surface free from grime. While it might not be the most professional cream polish out there, it does what it sets out to, helping prevent any corrosion or rust in the process. If you’re someone looking for a chrome polish job without any fuss, then this may be for you.

Pros
Clears up the surface of most metals quickly and easily
Not much is needed
Is effective on a range of different metals
Great for use on metal pitting and spotting

Cons
Can be a little abrasive on high-quality chrome
There can sometimes be pockets of air within the containers

7. Easiest-to-Use Chrome Polish: Turtle Wax Chrome Polish & Rust Remover

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Why we like it: Providing a range of options when it comes to detailing and chrome polish, Turtle Wax is a brand that knows what it’s doing.
Editor’s Rating:

When it comes to chrome rims, this is one of the best out there, given how it deals with oxidation. Wheels face the constant threat of rusting through road salts, which is where Turtle Wax excels.
Strength and Texture
Using a cloth to smooth the solution into and across the metal surface as a liquid formula, it’s quick and easy. Not too runny, you won’t find a lot of excess with this, and you don’t need a great deal to get the job finished. Despite being a weaker polish, it makes up for this in price, as it’s a cheap, inexpensive option.
Coating and Shine
Its non-abrasive mixture, best as a cleaner, works while polishing the metal surface. With only one coat required, the solution is applied by hand, leaving a light protective coating behind. It more than works for one of the budget options, bringing a coat and shine for a fraction of the cost.
Overall
While Turtle Wax probably won’t cover you when it comes to severe surface damage, and light surface rust may also prove to be a problem, it makes up for its shortcomings in price. Providing a quick and easy clean, it’s ideal when you need to clear up the car instantly. Using it alongside other chrome polishes is likely your best course of action here, as you can touch up and restore any previous job. All this makes Turtle Wax one of the go-to purchases for the casual car enthusiast, as it doesn’t take too much effort, nor does it break the bank either.

Pros
Well equipped for clearing general rust
Safe in contact with both rubber and plastic
Leaves behind a protective coating against further oxidation
An inexpensive option when it comes to chrome polish

Cons
Does require some effort to buff it out
Can leave behind stains if not careful

8. Best Multipurpose Chrome Polish: Quickway Brands Quick Glo Chrome Cleaner

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Why we like it: Working as an ‘all-in-one,’ this combines chrome polish with both wax and cleaner, being a sturdy brand that was endorsed by none other than Jay Leno.
Editor’s Rating:

With its cleaner, wax, and polish combined, Quickway has cornered the market when it comes to the all-in-one chrome polish. That said, any job is time-sensitive, as it has a limited shelf-life, but what it does do, it does well.
Strength and Texture
The Quick Glo chrome cleaner has a non-toxic formula that’s safe to use by hand and is environmentally friendly. Suitable for everyday use around the workshop, it cleans up various surfaces with its all-in-one cream texture. Simply spreading it across the surface, it’s relatively liquid in its make up, which can also be a problem if it’s left in humid spaces.
Coating and Shine
Working into the rust holes, it seals up the surface, really clearing up the metal, bringing it back to its original shine. Also useable on surfaces such as glass, Quickway covers water holes, cleaning all liquid spots and smears. It then forms a light protective coating protecting against any further water damage.
Overall
Better for general use around the workshop with its shorter shelf-life, it compensates through its ease of use on a variety of surfaces. Settling around the mid-range in terms of strength, it’s great for protecting against water build-up. Because of this, it’s extremely popular with boat owners, polishing those chrome surfaces ready for sailing. From brass to chrome, to glass, this all-in-one is a great little multipurpose cleaner for keeping close to hand.

Pros
Works on a variety of different surfaces, not just metal and chrome
Environmentally friendly formula
Both cleans the surface and adds a protective layer
Non-toxic, it’s safe to use without the need for ventilation

Cons
Can liquefy if stored in a humid or warm area
Occasionally not so effective on chrome itself

9. Best Protective Coating: Star Brite Chrome and Stainless Steel Polish

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Why we like it: Making many high-quality industrial products, including marine-grade cleaners, Star Brite’s chrome polish offers excellent protection when it comes to stainless steel.
Editor’s Rating:

With the option of applying this to a wet or dry surface, you can effortlessly spread this polish using a cloth. It also provides a robust protective barrier, with the chance to reapply the formula after 10 to 30 days for even better results.
Strength and Texture
It has a smooth, creamy texture that’s easy to spread across most metal surfaces, and it’s easy to apply by hand. Only needing a cloth, it doesn’t take much effort, with its non-abrasive formula. It drys into a haze after using it, which you can then buff off to reveal the shiny surface underneath.
Coating and Shine
Best for shining up stainless steel surfaces, this particular polish is geared towards brightening metals, giving them that sparkle. It does work at protecting too, retaining that shine, while also preventing corrosion and stains. Maybe not so strong against deep down tarnishes, it manages to hold off fingerprints and smears with due diligence.
Overall
As you’d expect from a name such as Star Brite, it’s all in the shining surfaces when it comes to this chrome polish. Picking up on stainless steel, it’s easily applicable to both dry and wet metals. It’s best to use with a buffing pad, topping it up once in a while to keep the sparkle going. Therefore, this polish is best suited to providing a clean, gleaming finish, following a more intensive workout from a more powerful polish.

Pros
Quick and easy to apply
Protects against discoloration, as well as rusting
Efficiently clears up rust stains
Leaves a protective coating, which you can boost every 10 to 30 days

Cons
Can leave streaks meaning a lot of cleaning’s required
There’s a strong, pungent smell of kerosene

10. Best Rotary Buffer Chrome Polish: Surf City Garage

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Why we like it: Offers mirror finishes when used with a buffer, making Surf City a decent chrome polish for bringing out the sparkle.
Editor’s Rating:

Providing a budget-friendly clean up job, this brings a fast shine to most metal surfaces. It’s a simple, effective formula with the chance to apply it either by hand or rotary buffer.
Strength and Texture
Being medium strength, this is easy to apply straight onto the chrome itself, although it does require a bit of shaking up beforehand. Reasonably thin in its consistency, not much is needed when covering a larger area. You will need to be a little careful not to waste any, though, as it pours quite quickly.
Coating and Shine
Leaving a shine to the metal, this works well with a buffer, really cutting into the grime, bringing the brightness up to the surface. Spreading across the metal nicely, it leaves a good coat too, even if it only really removes the outer layer of rust. It’s best used in conjunction with a more powerful polish, letting this effectively complimenting it.
Overall
Specifically made for restoration, it’s a solution formulated to not scratch the metal surface while cleaning. That means, while it’s slightly less substantial as a serious chrome polish, it does work well when shining up your set of wheels. Being more of a liquid-based cream, it’s ideal for working over the surface following the heavy lifting of other more powerful chrome polish brands. Going great with a rotary buffer, it’s perfect for giving the final finishing touches to any restoration job.

Pros
Ideal for any restoration work
Requires little effort, with its fast-acting formula
Only small amounts are needed
The formula is safe to work with by hand

Cons
A bit watery, it’s sometimes hard to work with
The container isn’t very secure

Guide to Buying the Best Chrome Polish

So, we’ve summed up ten of the best chrome polishes currently on the market, but now what? While knowing some of the best chrome polishing products that money can buy is a great place to start, you’ll also want to know how to apply it and what it can do for your car. We’ll cover it all; first, we’ll take a look at why people use chrome polish and what benefits it can provide.
What Can Polishing Offer You?
You might be someone who really couldn’t care about keeping up appearances, but what if I told you it was more than just an aesthetic. In the previous guide above, we looked at what goes into a quality polish, so here we’ll take a closer look at why this is so important.
Prevents rusting and oxidation: this may seem obvious, but it’s crucial, as rust is not only an eyesore but also dangerous if left, with the metal potentially breaking apart.
Protects against the weather: traveling outside is always going to take its toll whatever measures you may take, but a decent polish can help keep environmental effects at bay.
Retains value: with a vehicle, you’ll likely want to sell it at some point, and you can’t do this with a beaten exterior, as that’s going to put potential buyers off in an instant.
Increases longevity: you want to keep any vehicles and metals in working order for as long as possible, and chrome polish can do that, maintaining their integrity for longer.
What Type of Metal are You Polishing?
Matching up your chrome polish with the metal surface is a significant part of choosing the right brand. Some will need you to focus solely on chrome, while others may require something a little more specific to tackle them head-on.
If you’re not so worried about getting the full shine, opting for more everyday upkeep of your surfaces, then the multipurpose all-in-one Quick Glo Chrome Cleaner may be more up your alley.
For those enthusiasts, though, something a little direct might be in order, such as the Simichrome All Metal Polish, bringing an air of sleek professionalism to your wheels. First, though, you should assess the situation in hand.
What’s the Damage?
First things first, before you begin any polishing work, you need to fully assess what the damage to your vehicle is, so you know exactly where you stand. Here’s a quick rundown of the problems that may arise when it comes to metal surfaces:
Rust
This is a fairly straightforward one, but it’s essential, as you need to keep the rust from building across any surface. Caused by oxidation of the metal, using a chrome polish to seal over it and bring out the shine is what you want. When it comes to heavy metals with severe rust, something like Chemical Guys can help you here.
Scratching
These are a little tougher to deal with, and won’t always come out straight away. Digging into the metal requires focus, sealing over the area, making you work on it as closely as possible. Sometimes it may also need another layer of paint if it’s particularly bad, but you want to get as much as you can with the polish first.
Pitting
When it comes to pitting corrosion, you need to find something that seals over the rust while also protecting from the climate. Mainly affected by the weather, it needs something that will provide a sturdy coating.
Discoloration
This is more aesthetic, which may not bother the casual motorist so much, but it’s always nice to ensure your wheels aren’t too faded. If you’re a car enthusiast, though, this can be a problem, especially when it comes to showcasing vintage models. Lifting the shine requires more of a cleaner, such as Star Brite, before proceeding on to something more serious.
Grease and Dirt
Cutting through grease can be a pain, especially when it never seems to wipe away. Add dirt on top of that, and it can become an issue, especially when you want to deal with the metal underneath. Certain brands, such as the Eagle One Nevr-Dull, is made especially for clearing up messes, picking up the dirt and grease with its polish-soaked material.
How to Apply Chrome Polish
While the job requires a high standard, you also want to ensure it’s made as easy as possible. You don’t want to add any unnecessary stress, which is where the polish application comes into question. What then, are the two main options available to you here?
By Hand
Preferred by the general motorist, this is what most will choose. First, you want to wash the car and surface, making sure it’s free from any grit that could potentially scratch it. Then, taking a cloth, which is usually microfibre, you essentially smear the formula over the targeted area, rubbing it in a circular motion. You want to do this until it disappears into the metal.
Using your hands is best for more general polishing work when you need to do a simple job. That said, when focusing on some of the smaller scratches and tarnishes, you’ll also want to go by hand, as machines typically buff up and shine larger areas.
By Machine
Usually involving a rotary buffer, you first apply the solution by hand, either to the metal surface or to the motorized buffing pad itself. It’s often best to use it straight on the buffer, getting it all over and then buffing it out similar to how you’d do it by hand. The only real difference is that you’re giving it a far more intense work over. Some experience is needed, though, as you need to know how fast it’s going, and you don’t want to end up burning the surface.
There are brands like Surf City designed for the rotary buffer. It all depends on what you’re looking for with the polishing and what you want from it.
Whichever method you choose, though, you always want to make sure the solution itself is clean, as again, you don’t want any grit getting into it. Once you’ve done all this, then you’re well on your way to the final product.
How to Maintain Polished Chrome
Whether it’s for a vintage showcase classic car or a set of wheels for heading to work in without looking too grimy, you’ve finally finished the job. Now it’s just a case of maintaining that exterior, ensuring that you update the polish as and when it’s necessary. Some polishes, such as Star Brite, can easily be repolished every 10 to 30 days, making sure it keeps its fresh shine intact and ready to go.
Find the Right Chrome Polish for You
Once you’ve taken all the chrome polish basics on-board, making your choice will be far more straightforward. There’s not much to it, and, as long as you haven’t chosen anything too abrasive, you should be well on your way to buffing up the shine all year round. More

There’s nothing quite like living life on the road, bouncing between jaw-dropping landscapes and careening through our glorious nation with a grin from ear to ear.
But if there’s one thing even the most seasoned RVer misses from home, it’s a properly plumbed residential toilet. The ability to send bodily waste to a far-away abyss at the press of a button is a luxury the RVer must do without—and emptying the dreaded black water tank is one of the major downsides of life on the road.
Nonetheless, it’s an essential part of RVing that cannot be avoided. And with the right toilet installed in your rig, the process doesn’t have to be so bad.
In our in-depth buyer’s guide, we’re going to detail everything you need to know about RV toilets. Of course, we’ll also include a top 10 list of the best RV toilets on the market to help you find the ideal option for you.

Factors to Consider in an RV Toilet
Before we get stuck into our top ten list, you need to know what to look out for when on the hunt for an RV toilet. Here are the most important things to consider when shopping for a toilet for your RV.
Type
RV toilets come in a range of different types, each with distinct pros and cons. Choosing the right one for your rig is essential, so be sure to read our section on RV Toilet Types to get the lowdown.
Size
If you’ve got a small RV, you’re going to struggle to squeeze in a big toilet, not to mention the necessary holding tank. In the same vein, there’s no need to limit yourself to a tiny little portable toilet if you’re driving around in a big rig.
Material
Some folks might be happy to sit on a functional and lightweight material like polyethylene plastic. Others, however, demand something more stylish like ceramic or china. Choose a toilet made from a material to suit your personal preference.
Installation
If you’re installing a brand new toilet into your RV, then look for an option that can be retrofit with minimal fuss. Plumbing pipes into an existing RV is outlandishly expensive, if not impossible; only consider toilets that are suitable for your current setup.
Waste Capacity
If you’re traveling with a large group of people, then chances are your toilet will fill up pretty quickly. In that case, it’s wise to opt for a model with a bigger-than-average waste capacity so you won’t have to empty it every other day.
Mobility
If you or anyone in your group has mobility issues, you’ll need to ensure your RV toilet is fit for purpose. High-profile toilets sit higher off the ground like a residential toilet and are easier for the elderly and the disabled to use (and for taller people, too!).
Cleaning
All RV toilets require the user to dispose of black water, but the exact process involved varies between the different types. Gravity flush and macerating toilets use a drainage hose, while portable and cassette toilets have you empty a container by hand.
With all that in mind, let’s take a look at some great toilets for your RV.

Top 10 Best RV Toilets 2020
1. Best RV Toilet Overall: Thetford Aqua-Magic V

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Why we like it: This functional plastic toilet from Thetford is easy to use and feels like a throne.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Toilet Type: Gravity flush
Material: Plastic
Dimensions: 15.75 x 18.25 x 19 inches
Weight: 9.65 pounds
Sure, it might not be the most beautiful RV toilet on the market—there’s no denying that ceramic bowls look prettier. But what Thetford’s latest addition to the Aqua Magic range lacks in aesthetics, it makes up for in raw functionality.
If you’re after an awesome gravity flush toilet that’s easy to clean and gets the job done, look no further than the Aqua Magic V. Even after countless miles bouncing around on the highway, this heavy-duty product sits firmly in place and works time and time again. Furthermore, DIY installers will be happy to hear this one is a cinch to hook up.
Its outstanding usability is mostly due to the single-pedal system, which adds water to the bowl at the halfway point and flushes it down at a full press—it doesn’t get much easier than that.
The high-profile toilet sits at 18.5 inches with the lid closed to provide optimal comfort. If you’d prefer something a bit shorter, there’s a low-profile option available as well. You can also choose between two colors: white and parchment (we prefer the latter).
Another cool feature about this model is the optional add-on of a hand sprayer, which allows you to give the bowl a quick clean using a minimal amount of water. The practice is ideal when you’re boondocking well away from civilization, and water is at a premium.

Pros
Easy to install
Simple to clean
Comfortable height
Durable design
Hand spray add-on

Cons
Plastic less pretty than ceramic

2. Best Budget RV Toilet: Camco (41541) Portable Travel Toilet

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Why we like it: This budget portable toilet does a brilliant job of keeping your effluent safely locked away.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Toilet Type: Portable
Material: Polyethylene plastic
Black Water Tank Size: 5.3 gallon
Dimensions: 14 x 16 x 15.5 inches
Weight: 10.8 pounds
Budget-minded RVers after a functional portable toilet that works wonders at blocking smells should invest in Camco. The proudly American-owned company has been manufacturing RV toilets (among other things) since the 60s, and they really know their stuff.
This 5.3-gallon portable toilet’s biggest attraction is the high-quality sealing valve that does an outstanding job of locking in smells. In fact, it’s unlikely you’ll notice your effluent is there at all—until it comes time to empty the thing, of course. Luckily, it only weighs 32 pounds when full and comes with a convenient carry handle to make the dirty deed less daunting.
Two side latches work well at holding the toilet in place for life on the road, and its sturdy yet lightweight design is built to withstand rigorous bumps. To empty the bowl, a basic bellow type flush works in conjunction with a side valve.
It’s a bit lower than the ideal height of 18.5 inches, so avoid this one if you’re exceptionally tall. Still, the kids will undoubtedly appreciate the low-profile on offer here.
As a neat little bonus, Camco throw in a pack of their TST biodegradable toilet chemicals for free—superb value for money given the unit is so cheap already.

Pros
Super cheap
Comes with free chemicals
Sturdy and lightweight
Simple flush function
Holds in smells

Cons
A little bit too low

3. Best Premium Toilet: Nature’s Head

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Why we like it: It’s environmentally-friendly, odor-free, and requires infrequent emptying.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Toilet Type: Composting
Material: Plastic
Black Water Tank Size: 5 gallon
Dimensions: 17.75 x 20.75 x 21.5 inches
Weight: 28 pounds
At almost a thousand bucks a pop, it’s little wonder so many RVers balk at the price tag attached to Nature’s Head. But for those in the know, this incredible composting toilet offers some of the best mobile washroom convenience on Earth.
For starters, Nature’s Head is exceptionally environmentally friendly. Forget about buying big packs of planet-destroying toilet chemicals because this unit functions through the natural process of composting. When the process is finished, you can deposit your composted droppings onto a garden to use as fertilizer, in turn creating new foliage to help our planet breathe.
Another tremendous advantage is that because human feces shrink into a fraction of the normal size after being composted, you won’t have to empty the number two section of the toilet very often at all. In fact, the small tray that traps the composted solids underneath only needs to be changed every few months—compare that with a cassette which should be emptied every few days.
But the biggest draw to this toilet—and it’s a biggie—is that the poop in Nature’s Head literally doesn’t stink. You won’t smell a thing while it’s in there composting, and you’ll only notice a faint, and not particularly unpleasant, earthy smell when it comes time to empty it. For RVers who gag at the thought of dealing with feces, Nature’s Head is the ultimate non-odorous solution.
As for number one’s, an innovative design sees fluids trickle into a separate bottle, which you’ll be required to empty as you go.
The American-made product is easy to install and is built tough to last.

Pros
Doesn’t smell
Requires infrequent emptying
Environmentally friendly
Made in the USA
Easy to install

Cons
Very expensive

4. Best Portable RV Toilet: Thetford Porta Potti

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Why we like it: The Porta Potti from Thetford is luxurious to use and easy to clean.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Toilet Type: Portable
Material: Plastic
Black Water Tank Size: 5.5 gallons
Dimensions: 18.39 x 15.75 x 17.83 inches
Weight: 13.45 pounds
Perhaps the best selling portable toilet of all time, the Thetford Porta Potti is a much-loved product among RVers and campers alike. Although this highly versatile toilet sits firmly in the premium range, the financial investment is well worth it for the convenience it affords.
As a portable toilet, there’s no installation required whatsoever, which saves the cash-strapped RVer a significant sum. The main appeal of this toilet, however, is the Porta Potti looks and feels just like your toilet at home—a rarity in the portable space. At slightly over 18 inches high and with a smooth ergonomic curve, the product is comfortable to sit on and is a hit for its sleek, modern design.
A battery-powered flush negates the need to push on a clunky floor pedal, and the tank level indicator seems to work better than most. Best of all, the toilet features a highly effective leak-proof valve that stops pungent odors from permeating through your RV.
The only discernible downside to this product is the price—it costs a pretty penny. Sure, it also won’t hold nearly as much as a flush toilet, but that’s to be expected from a portable.
Although this isn’t the most expensive item on our list, the price point is undeniably high for a portable toilet. Grab this one if your budget isn’t too tight, and you want the best portable money can buy.

Pros
Comfortable and ergonomic design
Sleek appearance
Doesn’t smell
Battery-powered push button flush

5. Best Ceramic RV Toilet: Dometic 320 Series RV Toilet w/Hand Spray

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Why we like it: A ceramic toilet that offers luxury even when boondocking in the wildest places on the road.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Toilet Type: Gravity flush
Material: Ceramic
Dimensions: 22 x 14.75 x 19.75 inches
Weight: 37.5 pounds
For the posh RVer who insists on having all the comforts of home, it’s hard to go past this beautiful ceramic toilet from Dometic. The company specializes in creating high-quality outdoor gear for adventurous Americans, and their plush ceramic RV toilet delivers the goods.
What makes this one so luxurious, you may ask? Its glossy and vitreous ceramic finish, smooth, elongated design, and earthy enameled wooden seat make it look exceptionally more stylish than the other RV toilets out there. And that’s not to say it’s overly pricey—the Dometic 320 comes in at a similar price to the Thetford Aqua Magic V.
Aesthetics aside, the flush function on this product is pretty good, too. A pressurized full-rim flush clears the entire bowl with ease, so you needn’t stress about those unsightly skid marks. Plus, it uses a mere one pint per flush; you won’t run out of freshwater too quickly.
The foot-pump is pretty easy to work out—press it in a bit to add water and all the way for a full flush. The unit also includes a hand spray, which is effective at keeping things spotlessly clean.
Just be careful not to break the foot pedal as there’s no replacement part available, so you’d have to go out and purchase an entire new toilet.

Pros
Excellent aesthetics
Pressurized full-rim flush
Easy-to-use foot pedal
Vitreous texture
Water-efficient

Cons
No replacement pedal

6. Best Value RV Toilet: SereneLife Outdoor Portable Toilet

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Why we like it: This easy-to-use portable toilet doesn’t emit much odor and represents excellent value for money.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Toilet Type: Portable
Material: Plastic
Black Water Tank Size: 5.5 gallons
Dimensions: 16.5 x 14.6 x 16.9 inches
Weight: 11.25 pounds
Cheap and cheerful, this popular road tripping accessory is suitable for woodland camping and RV living alike. Coming in at 11 pounds (empty), it’s portable enough to lug around the campsite, and its sizable 5.5-gallon holding tank is big enough for the whole family to use.
Its petite dimensions are another major attraction, as the unit can easily slide away under a bench when not in use. And for the owners of class B RVs or campervans, that extra portability is a godsend.
Under the hood, a splash-free rotatable outlet pipe lets you quickly pour the tank out without the risk of making a mess. For the price you pay, it does an excellent job of holding in the smell as well—don’t forget to add your chemicals, though. Furthermore, the unit comes with a handy travel bag that makes it super simple to tote to and fro.
On the downside, the tank can be a little hard to clean due to two rather poorly placed indentations that have a nasty habit of securing solids in place. The seat is also relatively small, which, while ideal for children and skinny adults, doesn’t bode well for big people.

Pros
Large holding tank
Affordable portable toilet
Comes with a travel bag
Easy to empty

Cons
Hard to clean out solids
Too small for large adults

7. Best China RV Toilet: Thetford 34430 Aqua Magic Style Plus Toilet

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Why we like it: This elegant toilet from Thetford looks just like a classy residential toilet.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Toilet Type: Gravity flush
Material: China
Dimensions: 19.5 x 25 x 22 inches
Weight: 44.9 pounds
If you love the Thetford brand but can’t stand the thought of using an unsightly plastic toilet in your RV, then this fancy china bowl model is the ideal option for you. While the Aqua Magic V gets top marks for functionality, the Aqua Magic Style Plus is all about looks.
Price-wise, it’s not much more expensive than the Aqua Magic V, which is surprising because china is a premium material. But in terms of it-feels-just-like-home aesthetics, this toilet comes up trumps. The contemporary design is almost indistinguishable from the throne you use at home, all thanks to its shiny china bowl.
It’s not all about appearances, however, as the Style Plus is awash with nifty features. An anti-microbial seat prevents the growth of nasty bacteria, while a powerful in-built flush spans the entire bowl. It’s even got an innovative ball valve that physically wipes the bowl clean upon each flush.
It’s relatively easy to install if you closely follow the instructions—no need to get a professional plumber involved. The biggest downside to this product is the seat is a little small for larger adults.

Pros
Comes in a chic contemporary design
Looks and feels like a toilet from home
Anti-microbial seat prevents bacteria
Ball valve wipes the bowl clean
Easy to install for a non-professional

Cons
The seat is too small for large adults

8. Best RV Toilet for Tall People: AW Gravity Flush Toilet RV Toilet

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Why we like it: It’s got everything a good RV toilet needs plus extra height to cater to tall users.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Toilet Type: Gravity flush
Material: High-density polyethylene plastic
Dimensions: 19.5 x 25 x 22 inches
Weight: 44.9 pounds
There’s nothing worse than trying to use a toilet that’s too small for you—it feels like squatting down onto a child’s potty. And if you happen to be exceptionally tall, you’re going to find most RV toilets are just a tiny bit too short.
The Gravity Flush Toilet from AW solves the age-old conundrum with a bigger and better RV toilet that’s suitable for tall users. Coming in at a whopping 20 inches high, it’s at least an inch and a half taller than most RV toilets, and that makes all the difference for anyone over six feet.
Aside from the extra height, it’s a decent gravity flush product that’ll stand the test of time. Its durable high-density polyethylene frame is designed to last at least five years, although you should get double that under normal conditions. The toilet is easy to use, too, with a simple push pedal system that either adds water or does a full flush.
But be warned, AW doesn’t have the same quality customer service as the big brands like Thetford and Dometic. Also, there’s no warranty to speak of, so purchase at your own risk.

Pros
Good for tall users
Tough frame is built to last
Easy to use

Cons
Poor customer service
No warranty

9. Best Vacuum RV Toilet: Dometic VacuFlush 509

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Why we like it: It uses advanced vacuum suction technology to suck away the poop.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Toilet Type: Vacuum
Material: China
Dimensions: 20.5 x 18.75 x 15.25 inches
Weight: 42 pounds
Sure, it may cost you a pretty penny, but the Dometic VacuFlush 509 offers both exceptional functionality and sleek aesthetics in the one shiny china bowl.
The elongated seat and smooth deep bowl feel just like a residential toilet, while its powerful vacuum-operated flush does an impressive job of washing away unwanted fecal matter.
The vacuum mechanism means the toilet uses hardly any freshwater for each flush. In turn, that significantly increases your holding tank efficiency, thus means you won’t have to empty the thing so often. Using the system is easy enough thanks to a user-friendly flush pedal that isn’t at all hard to reach.
When it comes time for cleaning, the anti-splash rim ensures water stays in the bowl rather than on the floor. Another neat bonus is the toilet fits into a surprisingly small space yet manages to cater to taller users at the same time. If none of your party is particularly tall, then you can install it on the low-profile setting instead.

Pros
Vacuum flush technology is water efficient
Requires emptying less often
Easy to use
Suitable for tall or average-sized users
China bowl looks swanky

10. Best Macerating RV Toilet: TMC Marine Electric Toilet

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Why we like it: It chops your effluent into tiny fine pieces, which makes them easier to dispose of.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Toilet Type: Macerating
Material: China
Dimensions: 15 x 14 x 14 inches
Weight: 35 pounds
Although pricey, this high-tech macerating toilet from the little-known brand TMC is perfect for users who want to break solid waste down into a liquid for easy disposal. If you’re finding that RV toilet chemicals aren’t doing a good job of liquefying your poo or you suffer from unusually dense stools, investing in a macerating toilet could be your best bet.
It’ll only cost about a hundred dollars more than the other mid-range options we recommend, and that will be money well spent when it comes time to empty your tank at the dump station.
Aside from the heavy-duty macerating feature, TMC makes a comfortable and stylish toilet that’ll look lovely in your RV. The polished china bowl is compact and exceptionally vitreous, while a standard household toilet lid completes the package to make you feel right at home.
In terms of usability, a self-priming pump will rinse the bowl on your behalf, while the scavenger pump and macerator will dice up your doodoo—technology at its finest, folks. Rather than an annoying floor pedal (annoying for the elderly or infirm, at least), this toilet has a household-style push button that’s oh-so-easy to use.

Pros
Slices feces into tiny pieces for easy disposal
Perfect for constipated consumers
Stylish china bowl and residential toilet-style seat
Self-priming pump for flushing
Push-button rather than floor pedal

Cons
Expensive
Comes from a little-known brand

RV Toilet: Buyer’s Guide

The RV toilet is surprisingly complex, so you’ll need to do quite a bit of research to find the perfect product. Luckily for you, we’ve compiled the most crucial info into the following in-depth buyer’s guide.
From the different toilet types to the key things you need to consider, here’s everything you should know about the RV toilet.
What Is an RV Toilet?
An RV toilet is, of course, a toilet for your RV. But what makes it different from a regular residential toilet, you may ask?
While the toilet in your house is plumbed into a town sewerage system that whisks the wastewater away in seconds, an RV toilet is not. Instead, you’ll need to store your smelly effluent inside the RV until you can manually dispose of it at the nearest dump station (or appropriate location).
The Benefits of an RV Toilet
RV toilets don’t come cheap, and emptying them all the time is undoubtedly a chore. Nonetheless, these must-have contraptions are still an essential RV accessory for the comfort and convenience they afford.
Go without an RV toilet, and you’ll be forced to find a public restroom every time nature calls. More often than not, the nearest facilities will be miles away—or worse, they’re so horrendously unclean you can’t bear step inside.
With an RV toilet, you’ve got the freedom to expunge bodily waste whenever you choose, ultimately allowing you to live a healthier and happier existence on the road.
The Drawbacks of an RV Toilet
Some RVers, particularly those roadtripping in smaller rigs like a Class B, might shun the idea of a toilet, opting to seek out a restroom or dig a hole in the woods instead. Although excruciatingly inconvenient, especially on an extended trip, there are a few advantages to forgoing a toilet in the RV.
RV toilets are relatively expensive, both to purchase and to install. Budget orientated RVers might prefer to save the cost of a bathroom to spend on other parts of their rig, such as the battery or solar setup. Skipping out on a toilet also means you’ll never have to empty the black water tank, which every RVer agrees isn’t a whole lot of fun. And finally, RV toilets can start to smell if not emptied frequently and maintained adequately.
RV Toilet Types
RV toilets come in several different types, each of which is suitable for users with unique needs.
Gravity Flush
The RV gravity flush toilet works in a similar fashion to your toilet at home—you flush the button, and gravity forces the wastewater to flow down the drain and into a holding tank. One key difference is the RV flush toilet doesn’t have a water holding tank, which means you’ll need to turn your RV pump on or connect it to an external water source to flush.
Once you’ve finished doing your business, you flush the waste away with a foot pedal and then fill the tank again with a lever.
Traditional gravity flush toilets connect to a holding tank that could be located elsewhere in the RV.
Macerating Flush
The macerating flush is the same as gravity flush except for one thing: it includes a razor-sharp set of motorized blades that macerate (slice) solid waste into a sticky slurry before sending it to the waste holding tank. The key advantage of the macerating flush toilet is it turns effluent into a more viscous fluid that’s easier to store and dispose of.
Macerating toilet technology enables the toilet bowl and waste holding tank to be installed apart, reducing unwanted smells and allowing for a bigger tank.
Vacuum Flush
One of the best toilet types on the market, vacuum flush technology sucks the effluent from the bowl using a vacuum vessel and macerating pump, then stores it inside a holding tank. As a result, you get a spotlessly clean toilet bowl after every flush and a tank full of liquid-like effluent that’s easy to dispose of.
Like macerating toilets, vacuum flush toilets can also be installed in a different section to the black water tank, which reduces smells and allows for greater flexibility with the installation.
Cassette Toilet
A classic option in campervans and trailers, the cassette toilet gets its name from its cassette-like wastewater tank stored in an external locker. The toilet bowl sits directly above the cassette, and the waste falls straight inside upon being flushed.
To empty the wastewater cassette, the RVer must manually remove it from the service door and pour it into a toilet or dump station. The process makes you get a bit more “up close and personal” with your effluent, but most RVers get used to it and don’t find it so bad after a while.
Cassette toilets are an excellent option when there’s limited space to work with. However, the external service door means the RV manufacturer must install them upon construction; thus, they aren’t appropriate for the average consumer (which is why we don’t include them on our list).
Portable Toilets
As the name suggests, portable toilets are small enough to be taken anywhere, which makes them a popular choice for tent camping as well as RV use. These petite and lightweight toilets have a plastic bowl that sits right on top of a wastewater storage tank, which the effluent drops into as it would on a cassette toilet.
When the black water tank becomes full, you need to remove it from the bowl and manually pour it into a toilet or dump station—again, much like a cassette.
Composting Toilet
The composting toilet is a unique, environmentally friendly option that composts your effluent on the go. Liquid and solid waste are deposited into separate containers, and the solids are composted into a humus-like substance that can be safely returned to the soil. To empty a compost toilet, either pour it into a compost bin or down a drop toilet and let nature work its magic.
The system doesn’t use a drop of water, which makes it advantageous on remote excursions into arid areas. And aside from being environmentally friendly, compost toilets are popular as they emit very little odor when functioning correctly.
RV Toilets for Those With Limited Mobility
Whether you’ve got elderly travelers in your group or someone with a physical disability, it’s crucial to consider their needs when shopping for an RV toilet.
If possible, opt for a high-profile toilet that sits well off the ground like a regular household toilet and is more comfortable for the infirm to lift themselves on and off. However, these options are usually only available in gravity, macerating, or vacuum toilet types. If you need to install a cassette or portable toilet, consider creating a platform to raise it off the ground.
The classic foot pedal flush is also best avoided. If possible, opt for a modern electric flush that comes with a handle on the wall.
The Different RV Water Tanks
These days, almost all RVs have three separate water tanks: freshwater, greywater, and blackwater.
Freshwater refers to potable water that comes directly out of the town water supply tap and into your RV, often passing through a food-grade hose and water filter to ensure it tastes great.
Greywater is the water you’ve already used to clean your dishes and shower in. As greywater isn’t especially bad for the environment, most RVers will flush it down the drain or release it on the side of the road.
And then there’s blackwater, the icky stuff. Blackwater is what you’ve deposited into your toilet, typically a foul concoction of feces, urine, chemicals, and TP. This tank definitely isn’t environmentally friendly, so you’ll need to empty it into a standard toilet or dump station.
RV Blackwater Tank Sizes
If you’re wondering what the ideal size for an RV blackwater tank (AKA holding tank) is, the answer is simple: as big as possible.
The larger an RV black water tank is, the less frequently you’ll be required to empty it—and as we already know, pouring your poop down a hole in the ground isn’t the most enjoyable chore in the world.
The size of your blackwater tank will vary depending on the type of toilet you’re using and the available space and weight on your RV.
Oversized RVs and fifth wheelers with a gravity flush or macerating/vacuum toilet may have a blackwater tank as big as 100 gallons. However, the average size of a blackwater tank for large to medium RVs is between 20 and 50 gallons.
Smaller RVs, on the other hand, tend to favor the more compact cassette or portable toilets, whose holding tanks are usually around 5 gallons in size. These need to be emptied more frequently—typically every few days if two people or more are using the toilet.
Compost toilets also hold solid matter, which isn’t measured in gallons but can be emptied extremely infrequently (every few months).
When shopping for a new RV toilet, you only need to consider the blackwater tank size when looking at portable or cassette toilets. Other toilets (gravity flush, macerating, and vacuum) will use the blackwater tank already installed in your RV.
Finding a Place To Dump Your RV Toilet

Unless you’re well off the beaten track in some far-flung locale, there’s usually someplace close by to dump your effluent. The best place to dispose of your waste depends on the kind of toilet you’re using.
Where To Dump Gravity Flush, Macerating, and Vacuum Toilets
RVing is a hugely popular pastime throughout the United States, and there’s a highly developed infrastructure network out there to support the lifestyle.
One of the most prevalent infrastructure pieces is the dump station, which is essentially a hole in the ground that connects with the town sewage system. These have been specially designed so that RVers—especially those with a gravity flush, macerating, or vacuum toilet—can safely and efficiently empty their black water tanks. Each station is either available for free or for a nominal fee.
These three toilet types have a big hose that connects to the holding tank and drains the black water directly into the dump station. Attempting to empty any of these into a standard flush toilet could result in a horrible mess—trust us, you don’t want to try this.
The easiest way to locate your nearest dump station is by using a cell phone app such as WikiCamps USA.
Dump Stations: Yes
Standard Flush Toilets: No
Remote Drop Toilets: No
Where To Dump Cassette and Portable Toilets
RVers using a cassette or portable toilet have a distinct advantage: they’re able to dump their wastewater into dump stations and any standard flush toilet, so long as it’s connected to the town sewage system. This flexibility provides the RVer with extra convenience in remote areas as they don’t have to keep a keen eye out for the nearest dump station.
However, you must never dump the contents of a cassette or portable toilet into a drop toilet, as the harsh RV chemicals could destroy the composting system and cause thousands of dollars’ worth of damage. The bathrooms in some remote RV parks may also be unsuitable for dumping, as they run on a delicate septic system. Keep an eye out for warning signs, and if in doubt, ask.
Dump Stations: Yes
Standard Flush Toilets: Yes
Remote Drop Toilets: No
Where To Dump Compost Toilets
Compost toilets separate number one and number two into two different compartments, each of which should be disposed of differently.
Compost Toilet Pee Bottles
Number one filters into a “pee bottle,” which includes a durable, watertight cap to avoid spillage. As urine isn’t especially harmful to the environment, it’s relatively easy to find a place to empty these. Normal flush toilets, dump stations, and remote drop toilets are all acceptable places to dispose of urine.
Dump Stations: Yes
Standard Flush Toilets: Yes
Remote Drop Toilets: Yes
Compost Toilet Number Two’s
A compost toilet uses a combo of coco pith, peat moss, and/or sawdust to turn your number two’s into a humus-like substance that’s solid, dry, odorless, and relatively non-toxic. However, this is still humanure we’re talking about, so it could potentially contain E. coli or salmonella and should be disposed of carefully.
Feel free to add the contents into a compost pile or use it to fertilize a garden—but avoid fertilizing vegetable patches or orchids intended for human consumption. Another option is to dispose of its contents directly into a drop toilet at a trailhead or remote camp, as these compost toilets are designed to function in a similar manner. Some campers dig a hole in the woods, although that’s quite laborious, and you’d need to dig deep to empty an entire compost toilet worth of waste.
The easiest option is somewhat controversial: bagging your composted poop and disposing of it in a trash can. While some RVers believe this option to be unethical and perhaps even illegal, others argue it’s a safe and responsible way to empty a compost toilet.  In any case, throwing composted humanure in the trash is certainly no worse than chucking out dirty nappies or plastic-wrapped dog poop.
Dump Stations: No
Standard Flush Toilets: No
Compost For Edible Fruits And Vegetables: No
Remote Drop Toilets: Yes
Compost Bins And Gardens: Yes
Garbage Bins: Yes
Emptying an RV Toilet
The process of emptying an RV toilet varies depending on its type.
Emptying a Blackwater Holding Tank
Traditional flush, macerating, and vacuum toilets all store effluent in a large blackwater holding tank, which may reside in an entirely different section of the RV.
To empty the blackwater into a dump station, follow these steps.
Put on a pair of thick rubber gloves
Take off the outlet cap of the holding tank
Hook up the drainage hose between the holding tank outlet and the dump station
Open the holding tank valve and drain the black water into the dump station
Although not strictly necessary, it’s a smart idea to flush your blackwater tank and drainage hose.
Fill the holding tank with freshwater and drain it again to flush it out
Close the blackwater valve
Run water through the draining hose to flush it and lift one end to let all the water trickle out
Adding chemicals to your holding tank is essential, especially if you plan to use it for number two’s.
Disconnect the hose and stash it in your RV
Rinse the dump station clean and close the lid
Add fresh water and RV toilet chemicals to the holding tank
Emptying a Cassette or Portable Toilet
To empty a cassette or portable toilet tank into a standard flush toilet or dump station, follow these steps:
Ensure the toilet is closed
Remove the cassette from the external locker (or from beneath the bowl for a portable toilet)
Twist the outlet pipe so that it points away from the cassette
Unscrew the cap on the outlet pipe and pour the contents into the toilet bowl or dump station
Press the vent button at the top of the cassette to avoid splashbacks
It’s wise to take a moment to rinse out the tank every time you empty it to reduce the onset of odors.
Pour approximately one gallon of water into the cassette, reattach the cap, and swish it around vigorously
Empty the water into the toilet or dump station again
Now that the inside of your cassette is nice and clean, you’ll need to add water and chemicals.
Pour about half a gallon of water into the outlet pipe
Add the manufacturer’s recommended dose of your preferred RV toilet chemicals
Put the lid back on the outlet pipe and return the cassette to the external locker
Emptying a Compost Toilet
The process for emptying a compost toilet is simple and less “icky” than the aforementioned types.
Number One:
Ensure the cap on the pee bottle(s) is properly fastened
Empty the bottle into an appropriate receptacle.
Number Two:
Open the holding tray
Transfer the contents into an appropriate bag (plastic for the trash or biodegradable for burying/drop toilets)
Dispose of the bag in an appropriate place
Note that human waste shrinks when composted. Therefore, you’ll only have to empty the number two’s from your composting toilet every month or so.
RV Toilet Chemicals
If left untreated, the effluent in an RV blackwater tank would clog up the pipes and start to smell horrendously bad. To address the issue, RV toilet manufacturers have released an array of RV toilet chemicals specially designed to break down human waste.
These chemicals come in satchel or liquid form and are added to the blackwater tank with a half-gallon of water. Septic-safe RV toilet chemicals are better for the environment, while the standard chemicals do a better job of breaking down the nastiness.
RV Toilet Paper
Regular toilet paper doesn’t break down quickly enough to be suitable for RV use. Although it is possible to use it in an RV, there’s a high risk of creating a clog—and of course, you’ll have to unclog it yourself!
For this reason, savvy RVers opt for specialized RV toilet paper instead. Stacks of different competing brands are available, but we reckon Thetford makes the best of the bunch.
RV Toilets For Remote Travel
If you’re planning to venture way off the beaten track, you may want to consider investing in a backup toilet. In far-flung areas, there’s often no dump station around, so you’ll have nowhere to dump your blackwater.
One option is to carry an extra portable toilet with you, which will buy you a bit of time. If you’re using a cassette toilet, you could bring a second backup cassette to start using once you’ve filled your first one up.
RV Toilets: FAQ
If you’ve still got questions that need answering about the RV toilet, then take a look through our FAQ below.
How Do You Unclog a Blackwater Tank?
Try emptying the black water into a dump station. If that doesn’t work, use a course toilet snake and an extra-long and bendable auger to poke around inside the piping and tank. Ensure these are designed for RV use because a domestic one could damage your pipes.
Who Makes the Best RV toilets?
Thetford and Dometic make the best RV toilets on the market, each offering a wide variety of different toilet types. For compost toilets, however, it’s hard to look past Nature’s Head.
Can You Put a Residential Toilet Into an RV?
Residential toilets aren’t appropriate for RV use because they’re too fragile and use too much water. Furthermore, residential toilets are designed to pump effluent directly into the town sewage system, which isn’t possible in an RV.
What Do You Clean RV Toilets With?
To clean the bowl, use a soft-bristled and non-abrasive brush combined with the household cleaner of your choice. As for the pipes and holding tank, you may need a toilet snake and/or auger to clear out any clogs.
Do RV Composting Toilets Smell?
RV composting toilets work by breaking your feces down into a soil-like humus substance that doesn’t emit any odor. Therefore, when working correctly, composting toilets don’t tend to smell.
Do I Need Special Toilet Paper for an RV?
Although it’s possible to use regular toilet paper in an RV, it isn’t recommended as it could clog your piping or holding tank. RV toilet paper is specially designed to decompose rapidly, which makes it much less likely to clog.
Why Does My RV Toilet Stink?
A foul odor emanating from your RV toilet could be caused by several things: a full holding tank, clogged piping, insufficient or ineffective chemicals, excess heat and humidity, a leak in the tank or piping.
Best RV Toilets: Final Thoughts
You’re now an expert on the exciting world of RV toilets. If you’ve made it this far through our guide, you now know all the essential info about going to the bathroom in an RV—including, we dare say, a few things you probably didn’t want to know.
With this high level of expertise at hand, you’re now ready to sort through our top ten list to pick out the perfect toilet for you. Remember to factor in our key considerations before coming to a decision. If you’re looking for further ways to residentialize your RV experience, we have an article about great washer/dryer combos for RVs too.
May your number one’s and two’s be forever non-odorous and easy to clean. More