If you don't use your RV during the winter months, keeping it in an RV storage facility could be a good idea. Your RV will be safe and out of your way until you're ready to start traveling again in the spring. Preparing your RV for storage is important or you may return to find it covered with mildew inside or damaged by rodents. Here are some tips for storing your RV so it survives a few months alone in storage.

Keep The RV Under Cover

RV storage facilities provide three types of storage: indoor, under a roof, and in the open. It's good to park your RV under a roof or in an enclosed unit if possible to protect it from the weather and UV exposure. However, parking your RV on an open lot is less expensive. If you choose to park your RV on an open space, then invest in a cover. Choose the cover carefully to make sure it is breathable and that it will fit snugly. You don't want moisture to get trapped underneath the cover. Also, the tires should be covered as well. If the RV cover hugs the frame of your RV and leaves the tires exposed, consider buying separate covers for the tires.

Wash And Dry The RV

Start preparing for storage a few days ahead of time so you can clean it thoroughly. This includes washing the inside and outside and making sure the RV is completely dry before parking in the storage lot. A thorough cleaning gives you the chance to go over every inch of your RV to look for damaged areas or gaps that need to be sealed to keep out rain, rodents, and insects. Cleaning the inside is important so crumbs or grooming products won't attract rodents. Be sure to empty all your cabinets and drawers so there is no food or nesting materials to attract pests. Leave the cabinets, drawers, and refrigerator propped open when you've parked your RV in its storage spot.

Guard Against Bugs And Moisture

Pests and moisture are two of the biggest threats your RV faces. While winterizing and using blocks to prevent flat spots on tires are also important, you don't want to overlook simple things that can protect your RV. For example, keep the windows covered to keep out UV rays and prevent solar-heated cozy nesting spots. Put down insect traps and consider using things like diatomaceous earth to kill bugs that wander through. Try placing cotton balls soaked with peppermint oil around the RV or stuff dryer sheets everywhere so the odor will keep rodents and other pests at bay. You may want to visit your RV every few weeks to freshen your natural pest repelling methods. Also, in addition to making sure everything in your RV is completely dry, put out tubs of silica desiccant that will absorb moisture so mildew and mold won't start to form while your RV is closed up in storage.

Reach out to an RV storage facility for more information.

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