How To Keep Moisture Out Of RV In Storage? [Guide & Tips]

Are you an RV owner looking for a way to keep your vehicle in top condition year-round? Whether you’re storing it away during the off-season or just taking breaks between trips, moisture can be an unwelcome guest. Excess moisture causes damage and depreciates the value of your investment over time – so what is a savvy RV owner to do? How to keep moisture out of RV in storage?

Using a dehumidifier is the most effective way to keep moisture out of your RV while it’s in storage. It helps absorb excess moisture from the air and prevents condensation from forming on surfaces. This can help you avoid mold, mildew, and other moisture-related problems that could cause damage to your RV over time.

Today’s blog post will show how easy and affordable it is to make this conversion so you can have an RV that stays warmer in the colder months and free of dampness all year round! Let’s get started.

Table of Contents Show

Why Should You Keep Moisture Out Of Your RV During Storage?

Moisture is your RV’s worst enemy when it comes to long-term storage. Moisture causes rust, mildew, and corrosion that can damage the interior of your RV and decrease its value over time. Keeping moisture at bay should be a top priority for any RV owner who wants to protect their investment in the long run.

Here are the dangers of moisture in your RV and why you should keep it out!

It Can Create Mold

Mold loves to grow in moist environments and can wreak havoc on your RV. Not only is it ugly, but mold can cause damage to the structure of your vehicle and even lead to health issues if left unaddressed. If you sense a musty smell in your RV, pay attention—it’s a sure sign that moisture has found its way inside, and mold could grow.

It Can Cause Wood to Rot

Water can cause wood to rot and weaken over time, leading to structural damage in the body of your RV. Even if your RV is made primarily of metal, there are still likely areas where wooden components were used—meaning they need extra protection from moisture during storage.

It Can Lead to Rust

Metal is especially vulnerable to the harmful effects of moisture. Rust can occur quickly from your RV’s frame to its plumbing and other metal components if moisture is present. This corrosion can weaken parts and cause severe damage that could threaten the structural integrity of your vehicle over time.

It Can Lead to More Severe Problems

Moisture in your RV can lead to even more serious issues, such as electrical shorts and component failure. This type of damage is expensive and difficult to fix, so prevention is key!

Taking the proper precautions during storage can protect your RV from the destructive effects of moisture and keep it in excellent condition for years to come.

How To Prevent Mold In RV During Storage?

One of the most important things to consider when storing your RV is preventing mold growth. Mold can ruin fabrics, causing them to rot and become discolored, damage wood surfaces, and even cause health problems for you and your family. If you want to ensure that your RV remains free from mold during storage, there are a few steps you should take.

Use A Dehumidifier

A dehumidifier is the best way to reduce the moisture level inside your RV and prevent mold from forming. Look for one that can be easily transported to move it around in your RV as necessary. The dehumidifier should also have an adjustable humidity setting so you can control the level of moisture in your RV.

Wipe Down All Surfaces

Mold needs a moist environment to grow, so wiping down all surfaces with a damp cloth and an anti-fungal cleaner will help ensure that any mold spores that have already formed aren’t allowed to thrive. Focus on areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, and other places where moisture is more likely to accumulate.

Use A Fan For Airflow

Setting up a fan in your RV can circulate air throughout the interior and prevent mold from forming. Ensure that you position the fan so it’s not blowing directly on any fabric or carpeted surfaces, as this could cause the fabric to become damp and promote mold growth.

Use Moisture-Removing Crystals Or Chemical Packets

Moisture-removing crystals, or chemical packets, can help keep your RV free from moisture buildup. These products are designed to absorb excess moisture in the air and create a protective barrier against mold growth.

Remove As Much Fabric As Possible

Fabric is a breeding ground for mold spores, so removing any fabric items, such as furniture covers, curtains, and bedding can help prevent mold from developing. If you cannot remove all of the fabric, clean it regularly with an anti-fungal cleaner.

Open Up Your Cabinets And Closet Doors

Mold loves to hide in dark, enclosed areas. To ensure mold doesn’t start forming in your cabinet doors or closets, keep them open when you’re not using them. This will allow air to circulate and discourage the growth of any unwanted spores.

Run A Heater

Running a heater in your RV during storage will help keep the interior warm and dry, which is needed to prevent mold from growing. Make sure to set the temperature on your thermostat low enough so that it won’t freeze any pipes or damage any of the materials inside.

Check Out How to Prevent Mold in Your RV and Monitor and Reduce Humidity:

Inspect For Any Leaks Or Exterior Cracks

Check the exterior of your RV for any cracks or leaks that could be letting in moisture. If you find any, it’s important to ensure they’re sealed up properly so no water can get inside and cause mold growth.

Ensure The Air Circulation

One of the best ways to prevent mold in an RV during storage is to ensure air circulation. This can be done by opening windows and vents, turning on a fan, or running a dehumidifier. If you have access to electricity, you can keep your RV’s heating/cooling system on a low setting when it’s stored as well. Doing this will help improve air circulation and reduce the chance of mold growth.

Make Sure All Pipes Are Bone-Dry

Before storing your RV, must ensure all the water and sewage lines are completely dry. This is one of the most important steps in preventing mold during storage. Start by opening all faucets, letting all remaining water drain out, and then closing them again.

You may even want a wet-dry vacuum to suck out any residual moisture. This step is crucial if you plan to store your RV in a cold air climate, as frozen pipes are one of the most common causes of mold growth.

Inspect Your RV At Least Once A Month

Checking your RV for any signs of mold once a month is essential to preventing it from forming. If you notice any patches of black or green, or if the air smells musty, take action as soon as possible to ensure that the mold causes no further damage.

By taking these steps to prevent mold from forming in your RV during storage, you can rest assured that it will be well-maintained and ready for use when needed. With the proper care and attention, your RV should stay in tip-top condition for years to come!

Storing An RV in Hot Weather

It’s important to take extra steps when storing an RV in hot weather, as high temperatures can cause a lot of damage to the interior and exterior of your vehicle. Here are some tips for keeping it safe:

Exterior Protection

The best way to protect your RV from the harsh sun is to keep it clean and waxed. This not only keeps the exterior looking nice but also helps to protect it from fading and cracking. It’s best to clean your RV once a month to remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated from use or stored under harsh conditions.

Park Under a Roof

If you’re lucky enough to have access to a roofed area, park your RV under it whenever possible. This will help protect the exterior from direct sunlight and heat, helping to keep it in better condition for longer.

Use an RV Cover

If there aren’t any roof vents overhead or you’d like extra protection, consider investing in an RV cover. These covers are designed to fit perfectly around your vehicle and help protect it from the sun’s harmful rays.

Use a Storage Facility

If you plan on storing your RV for an extended period, consider using a storage facility. Most of these facilities offer climate-controlled units that moderate temperatures, helping protect your vehicle further.

Interior Protection

It’s not just the exterior of your RV that needs protection in hot weather – the interior also needs to be cared for. Make sure to clean and condition the interior regularly to keep it looking its best. Consider using blinds or curtains on all windows to keep the sun from shining and causing damage over time.

Following these tips will help ensure that your RV stays in great condition even when stored in hot weather! You can protect your vehicle for years with just a little extra effort.

Storing An RV in Cold Weather

Storing an RV in cold weather can be a daunting task. But with the proper steps, you can ensure your vehicle is ready for the winter. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Drain the Water System

When storing your RV for winter, it’s essential to drain the water system so that any water left in the pipes won’t freeze and cause damage. To do this, open all the faucets until they run dry. This includes turning on your outside shower and leaving it for at least two hours before draining the water heater tank.

Protect the Tires

Cold RV weather can make tires more susceptible to damage, so it’s important to check your tires for wear and tear before storing your RV. It’s also a good idea to add a tire cover to protect them from the cold surfaces and weather.

Add Fuel Stabilizer

If you plan on keeping your RV parked during the winter, adding a fuel stabilizer to the tank is essential to help the fuel resist oxidation. This will keep it from gumming up and corroding your engine over time.

Save Your Batteries

Cold weather can reduce the life of your RV batteries, so it’s important to charge them before you store them for winter. Make sure you disconnect all appliances that draw power and charge the batteries to at least 50% before storing them. You may also consider using a trickle charger while your RV is stored.

Make it Critter-Resistant

When storing your RV for winter, ensure you take steps to prevent any critters from a residence in your vehicle. Seal off all openings and vents, and use a critter guard over your exhaust pipe to keep away any pests.

Adequately Cover Up Your RV

A quality cover is the best way to protect your RV from damage during the winter. Make sure you purchase one designed for the size of your vehicle and check for any signs of wear and tear before you store it.

Following these tips ensures your RV is protected and ready for the cold winter months.

Tips For Preventing Moisture under RV Mattress

Moisture build-up under your RV mattress is a common issue, and it can leave you with a moldy, musty smell in your sleeping area. It can also result in resulting in several health risks. To prevent this from happening to you, here are some tips:

Invest in Moisture-Resistant Mattresses

The first step is to invest in mattresses specifically designed to resist moisture. Look for mattresses that use materials such as latex, which is designed to be much more breathable than traditional foam mattresses. This can help reduce the chance of moisture buildup beneath the mattress and keep you safe from mold and mildew.

Use a Mattress Cover

Another way to protect against moisture is to use a mattress cover. Mattress covers are designed to provide an extra layer of protection against moisture and other elements that could cause damage. They also come in various materials, so you can find one that best fits your needs.

Insulate Under The Mattress

Consider insulating the underside if you already have a mattress in your RV. This will help keep the air from circulating underneath and prevent moisture from gathering. You can use spray foam insulation or another material specifically designed to resist moisture buildup under an RV mattress.

Air Out The RV Mattress

It’s important to air out your mattress regularly to prevent moisture buildup. If possible, try to get outside and expose the mattress to sunlight at least once a week. This will help in boosting humid air escape that may have gathered under the mattress and keep it from becoming a breeding ground for mold and mildew.

Use An Under Mattress Airflow Pad

Finally, you can purchase an under-mattress airflow pad to help reduce moisture buildup beneath your RV mattress. The pad is designed to regulate the temperature and humidity of the air underneath and keep it comfortable. This will help prevent any moisture from gathering in that area and help protect your RV mattress from damage.

By following these tips, you can keep moisture from building up beneath your RV mattress and keep it free from mold and mildew.

How Do I Know If My Camper Has Mold?

Mold can be tricky to identify in a camper, and it’s important to be aware of the signs that may indicate its presence. Generally, mold will appear as black or greenish spots on surfaces, and you may also notice a musty smell inside your camper.

Here are the key identifiers that your RV has mold.

Smell the Interior of Your RV

When mold is present, it usually has a musty smell. If your nose detects an earthy scent, there’s a good chance that you have some microbial growth in there. Identify where the odor comes from, which will help you pinpoint the source and take appropriate action.

Visually Inspect RV for Stains

Mold often leaves behind discoloration, so you should be on the lookout for any greenish-black blotches or patches on window frames, ceilings, and walls. Keep an eye out for water stains, too, as this can indicate a past leak and water damage that has created a more hospitable environment for mold.

Bubbles & Blotches Under Wallpaper

If your RV has wallpaper, check carefully to see if any bubbles or blotches appear under the surface. These can be signs of water infiltration, which is generally a precursor to mold growth. You may need to remove some paper sections to get a better look.

Headaches & Respiratory Issues

Mold can cause adverse health effects, especially for those with allergies and asthma. If you’ve noticed that your family is experiencing headaches or respiratory issues inside the RV, this could indicate mold contamination. Get everyone out of the vehicle immediately if you suspect this is the case.

Use a Toxic Mold Kit to Test the Air Quality of Your RV

There are kits available that can tell you if there are hazardous mold levels in your RV. These usually involve collecting air samples, which a lab should analyze for signs of certain toxic strains of mold. The results should be given to you within a few days.

Look in Hidden Areas

Mold is sneaky and loves to hide away in dark, damp places. Check behind fixtures, furniture, carpets, and upholstery for any signs of mold growth. If you cannot move something independently, hire a professional to help you.

Examine the Exterior

Mold can sometimes form on the exterior of your RV, too, especially if it has been exposed to moisture or high humidity. Inspect all sides of the vehicle and look for any signs of discoloration, particularly around seams and vents where water may be present. This is one of the easiest ways to spot mold before it spreads and wreaks havoc inside your RV.

How To Get Clean Of Mold In A Camper?

Mold can be a real nuisance to deal with, especially in a camper’s small and enclosed space. However, with the right tools and techniques, you can quickly get your camper clean of mold and keep it that way. Following are some of the most effective methods to clean the mold of your camper.

Check Out RV Water Damage + Mold Removal:

Bleach

Bleach is often the go-to solution when it comes to getting rid of mold in your camper. Here are some steps you can take to clean mold off with bleach:

Start by preparing a mixture of one part chlorine bleach and ten parts water in a bucket or spray bottle.
Use a soft brush to scrub the moldy area with the bleach solution.
Let the bleach solution sit for around fifteen minutes before scrubbing again. Make sure to wear protective gloves when handling the bleach, and don’t forget to open window or ceiling vent for ventilation during this time.
Wipe down the area with a damp cloth.
After wiping, let the area air dry for a few hours before closing it up again.

If you’re using bleach to clean mold off painted surfaces, make sure to use a diluted solution of just one bleach and two water. This will help ensure that the paint isn’t damaged in the process.

Key Takeaway: With all of this in mind, there are still plenty of great reasons to make aftermarket modifications to your car. Just be sure to do your research and understand the potential risks before making any changes.

Natural “Spray & Scrub” Solutions

Fortunately, plenty of natural “spray and scrub” solutions can be used to eliminate mold without harsh chemicals or expensive treatments. Here are some methods you can try for scrubbing away mold from your camper:

Vinegar

This natural solution is a great way to get rid of mold in your camper. Simply mix one part white vinegar with one part water into a spray bottle, and spray the affected area(s). Let it sit for about five minutes before you scrub it away with a brush or sponge. Make sure you’re wearing protective gloves while you do this.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is an excellent natural, anti-fungal, and anti-bacterial solution that can help disinfect your camper from mold. Add 10-15 drops to a spray bottle of water, shake it up, and spray the area(s). Let it sit for five minutes before scrubbing it away with a brush or sponge. Again, make sure you’re wearing protective gloves while doing this.

Distilled Ethanol

This natural solution has disinfecting properties and can help eliminate mold in your camper. Mix one part distilled ethanol with one part water into a spray bottle, shake it up, and spray the affected place(s). After five minutes, scrub it away with a brush or sponge. Make sure you’re wearing protective gloves while you do this.

Hydrogen Peroxide

This natural solution has antifungal and antibacterial properties that can help get rid of mold in your camper. Mix one part 3% concentration hydrogen peroxide with one part water into a spray bottle, shake it up, and spray the affected spots. Let it sit for five minutes before scrubbing it away with a brush or sponge. Make sure you’re wearing protective gloves while doing this.

Baking Soda

This natural solution can help get rid of mold in your camper. Put ¼ tablespoon of baking soda into a spray bottle of water, shake it up, and spray the affected area(s). Let it sit for five minutes before scrubbing it away with a brush or sponge. Again, make sure you’re wearing protective gloves while doing this.

Grapefruit Seed Extract

This natural solution can be an effective way to get rid of mold in your camper. Mix about 20 drops to two cups of water, shake it up and spray the affected area(s). Let it sit for five minutes before scrubbing it away with a brush or sponge. Make sure you don’t rinse this solution off after you’re done scrubbing – simply let it dry naturally. Again, make sure you’re wearing protective gloves while doing this.

No matter what natural solution you choose, always wear protective gloves and open windows when dealing with mold in your camper. Also, keep the affected areas as dry and clean as possible by regularly vacuuming or wiping down surfaces.

The Bottom Line

To conclude, cleaning and maintaining your RV to prevent mold from forming is key. Furthermore, if you notice any discoloration or wet spots in the interior, it’s best to address them immediately. Following these tips should help keep the moist air away so that your RV stays in excellent shape year after year.

Storing an RV: How to Remove Excess Moisture Out of RV When Storing?