When washing your vehicle, shampoo may seem like a small detail, but the type of shampoo you use does have an impact on maintenance and protection. Two commonly used options are ceramic shampoo and pH-neutral shampoo. Each has its own properties and applications. In this blog, we calmly and objectively explain the difference.
What is pH-neutral shampoo?
A pH-neutral shampoo is developed to clean as gently as possible. The pH value is around 7, which means the shampoo affects existing protective layers as little as possible during cleaning.
Characteristics of pH-neutral shampoo:
Cleans effectively without aggressive chemicals
Minimally affects wax, sealants, and coatings
Suitable for regular maintenance
Safe for paint, plastic, rubber, and windows
This type of shampoo is often used when the focus is on consistent maintenance, for example with vehicles that already have a protective layer or are completely untreated.
What is ceramic shampoo?
Ceramic shampoo is a shampoo to which ceramic (SiO₂) particles have been added. During washing, these particles leave behind a thin layer that temporarily protects the surface and gives it a glossy appearance.
Characteristics of ceramic shampoo:
Cleans and leaves a light protective layer
Enhances water-repellent properties
Leaves a glossy finish
Is used as a supplement to coatings or wax layers
The ceramic components do not bond permanently like a true ceramic coating, but are intended to give the surface additional properties during and after washing.
The difference in operation
Although both shampoos are designed to clean, their operation differs subtly:
pH-neutral shampoo focuses purely on cleaning with minimal impact on existing layers
Ceramic shampoo combines cleaning with adding temporary properties, such as extra water repellency
Use and maintenance
Both shampoos can be perfectly integrated into a good washing routine:
pH-neutral shampoo is often chosen for frequent washes
Ceramic shampoo is used once a month to leave behind a light protective layer
Which shampoo suits you?
There is no right or wrong choice. Some prefer simplicity and neutrality, while others like a shampoo that adds extra properties during washing.
pH-neutral shampoo and ceramic shampoo each have their own function in caring for your vehicle. One focuses on gentle cleaning, the other combines cleaning with temporary protection. Both can be used in their own way, depending on personal preference and maintenance style.
This keeps your vehicle well cared for and in good condition, regardless of which shampoo you choose.
A camper or caravan is more than a vehicle – it is freedom, comfort, and often a significant investment. You want to enjoy it for as long as possible, without weather, dirt, and wear getting the chance to take their toll.
That’s why more and more camper owners are choosing ceramic coating. But what exactly is it, and how does it protect your camper or caravan?
What is ceramic coating?
Ceramic coating is a protective layer for your vehicle that bonds to the surface and hardens to prevent wear.
After application, the coating bonds to the surface it is applied to and intended for. This can include the paint/body panels of the camper, plastic parts, and wheels.
The result is an extremely hard, transparent protective layer that can last up to 5 years and is much stronger than wax or sealant.
Unlike wax, which disappears after a number of washes, a ceramic coating remains active for years with proper maintenance.
Protection against weather influences
Campers and caravans are often parked outside for long periods. Sun, rain, hail, and frost continuously affect the exterior.
Ceramic coating:
Protects against UV radiation, preventing discoloration and dull paint
Reduces damage from acid rain and atmospheric pollution
Helps keep the paint tight and glossy for longer, even with intensive use
Less dirt, easier cleaning
One of the biggest advantages is noticeable immediately: dirt adheres much less to the surface.
Thanks to the hydrophobic (water-repellent) properties of ceramic coating:
Water beads off the paint
Mud, dust, insects, and bird droppings stick less easily
Cleaning is faster and easier
This not only saves time, but also reduces the need for aggressive cleaning agents – better for your vehicle and the environment.
Long-lasting shine and value retention
A camper or caravan with a deep shine not only looks better, but also retains its value more effectively.
Ceramic coating:
Provides a deep, long-lasting shine
Keeps the paint looking new for longer
Increases attractiveness in the event of resale
So it’s not just an aesthetic choice, but also a smart long-term investment.
Suitable for more than just paint
Ceramic coating can often be applied to:
Paint
Plastic parts
Wheels
Plastic windows
This gives your entire camper or caravan complete protection.
Is ceramic coating worth it?
For those who want to properly protect their camper or caravan and keep maintenance to a minimum, ceramic coating is definitely worth considering. Less cleaning, better protection, and a lasting beautiful appearance make it a popular choice among camper owners.
Do you want to enjoy your camper or caravan worry-free for years to come? Then ceramic coating is for you.
Environment
Washing a vehicle with soap and water is a good option if it's located in a place where wastewater can be properly drained. If you're in nature or on the street where wastewater seeps into the soil, it's not good for the environment. However, with your camper or caravan, it's not easy to get to a location where wastewater can be properly drained. That's why we've developed several products to make your campervan shine, anywhere.
This washing method doesn't contaminate the soil; everything is absorbed by the cleaning cloths, which then go back into the washing machine, and all the dirty water is properly drained.
Simplicity
Now you might be thinking: "But that's a lot of effort," and that's not surprising. Washing a vehicle with water is indeed less intensive in most cases. However, washing without water isn't a huge undertaking, especially for those who love their campervan. Just spray it on, wipe off the dirt, and then polish it clean. It's that simple.
Few options at the campsite
After a long journey to the campsite, it's only natural that your campervan is no longer shiny and contains a fair amount of dirt. Dirt also sticks quickly when camping under trees or in a nature reserve. With the OTR (on-the-road) kit from QP-ON, you can quickly clean and make your campervan shine again at the campsite.
Affordable
Regarding the cost, with one OTR kit you can easily properly maintain your campervan on the road for a whole year, extending its lifespan, keeping it in better condition, and ensuring it always shines, wherever you are.