{"id":5049,"date":"2023-04-26T12:54:00","date_gmt":"2023-04-26T19:54:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.priceselfstorage.com\/?p=5049"},"modified":"2025-03-21T06:05:00","modified_gmt":"2025-03-21T13:05:00","slug":"how-to-prevent-mold-in-the-rv-during-storage","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.priceselfstorage.com\/blog\/how-to-prevent-mold-in-the-rv-during-storage","title":{"rendered":"13 Ways To Prevent Mold in Your RV During Storage"},"content":{"rendered":"

If you\u2019re planning on long-term RV storage, there are several things to consider before you put it away. One of the most important is knowing <\/span>how to prevent mold in your RV during storage<\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n

Fortunately, the experts at Price Self Storage have come up with a list of 13 tips for <\/span>RV mold prevention<\/span>. <\/span>We’ll show you everything you need to know about <\/span>how to keep moisture out of an <\/span>RV in storage<\/strong><\/span><\/a> and make sure it stays mold-free.<\/span><\/p>\n

How Does Mold Form?\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n

Mold can present issues for your vehicle’s health \u2014 and yours\u00a0\u2014\u00a0so it’s important to know what causes mold and how to identify it. <\/span>Nipping the problem in the bud early could save you money and hassle down the road. According to <\/span>Insider Living<\/a><\/strong>:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMold is caused by mold spores (which are naturally present in our environment) that find a moist, dark place to grow. RVs are especially good incubators for these spores since they are frequently closed up and stored for long periods of time. When an RV is stored, moisture can get trapped inside the RV and help to feed the mold growth.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Although mold can be seen on your RV\u2019s walls, carpet, or flooring, the easiest way to detect it is through the musty smell. Mold tends to have a dank or musty odor that\u2019s immediately apparent. Left untreated, mold will dig in and spread, which can lead to respiratory issues. By employing prevention methods and fighting mold early on, you can protect both your RV and <\/span>your <\/span>passengers.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

How To Keep Mold Out of Your Camper During Storage<\/span><\/h2>\n

Dampness and lack of airflow are the primary causes of mold. So the best way to keep mold out of your RV is to remove as much moisture as possible. Here\u2019s exactly what you need to know about <\/span>how to keep moisture out of an RV in winter<\/span> (and while in storage).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

1. Inspect Your RV<\/span><\/h3>\n

Before you store away your recreational vehicle, it\u2019s vital that you perform a rigorous inspection of the RV\u2019s interior and exterior for damage or the presence of moisture. If you identify issues, fix them. Similarly, check the vehicle\u2019s plumbing, particularly around the toilets and sinks. Once more, if issues <\/span>are <\/span><\/i>discovered, repair them sooner than later.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

2. Use a Dehumidifier<\/span><\/h3>\n

When it comes to <\/span>RV mold prevention<\/span>, moisture is the enemy. Before placing your RV into storage, run a dehumidifier in your vehicle. The dehumidifier will suck moisture from the air inside your RV and put it into a collection unit that you can empty. You can find <\/span>dehumidifiers for campers<\/span> online.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Run the dehumidifier for at least a few hours before putting your RV into storage. Ideally, you should run it for a few days. Keep the RV or camper closed during this time so no additional moisture can get in.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

If your storage spot includes an electrical hookup, you may even want to consider running a small dehumidifier while your RV is in storage.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

3. Rent an Indoor Storage Unit<\/span><\/h3>\n

One of the best ways to protect your RV or camper from mold and mildew is to store your vehicle in a fully enclosed storage unit. Indoor storage units may be more expensive than outdoor units, but you could save money in the long run if you prevent a mold outbreak. Indoor storage will protect your RV from rain, dew, fog, and everyday condensation.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Few storage sites in California offer indoor storage for RVs, but Price Self Storage’s Solana Beach location has the largest indoor RV storage facility in Southern California.<\/span><\/p>\n

4. Blow Out Fresh Water Lines\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n

Even if a visual inspection results in zero major issues, it\u2019s wise to blow out all freshwater tanks and plumbing lines. <\/span>Any water left in your RV, even in the water lines, can increase your risk of a mold outbreak. Consider using an air compressor to help you fully empty your water lines. This will ensure that the whole water system is clear.<\/span><\/p>\n

5. Use Desiccants\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n

Desiccants are materials that help absorb moisture from the environment within your RV. They come in several forms, including crystal packets, chemical packets, or clay desiccants. The <\/span>best moisture absorbers for an RV<\/span> are desiccants designed specifically for campers. These include large packets designed for bigger spaces or even hanging packets you can put in your closets. Ideally, you\u2019ll want to place packets throughout your RV so you can catch as much leftover moisture as possible during storage.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

6. Use a Proper RV Cover\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n

If you can\u2019t store your vehicle inside, it\u2019s smart to cover it with a specialized RV cover tarp. <\/span>You\u2019ll need to find a cover that is waterproof from the outside and can vent water vapor from the RV. Make sure your cover also protects against UV rays; over time, UV from the sun can damage seals around your windows and doors, making it easy for moisture to get into your camper.<\/span><\/p>\n

7. Remove Fabrics Before Storage<\/span><\/h3>\n

Fabrics tend to hang onto moisture and could be a haven for mold or mildew if left in your RV for a long time. Before you put your RV into storage, remove all fabrics from your vehicles. These can include:<\/span><\/p>\n