Tips To Keep Your RV Rodent Free In Storage
As summer nears its end and autumn is just around the corner, it's time to start thinking about storing recreational vehicles. Obviously, the usual RV winterizing tasks like protecting the water system from freezing are a must. But one thing often overlooked is taking the time to protect your RV from mice infestation. Here is everything you need to know to make sure a family of mice don't enjoy your camper just as much as you do.
Whether your RV is stored indoors or out, don't just put it away and forget about it for the winter. You should inspect your recreational vehicle monthly to make sure you don't have any unwelcome guests. You may want to check it even more frequently if you have an extended run of subzero temperatures as rodents will be even more desperate for sheltered housing.
What Are The Signs Of Rodent Infestation?
- Check for mouse droppings in your kitchen cupboards and drawers.
- See if bedding, pillows, bench cushions, or even the mattresses and couch areas are ripped open. Mice use the stuffing for their nests.
- You find their winter food supply. Rodents like your RV to be well-stocked, just like you do. Look for pine cones, nuts, and other natural foods. Under and behind pillows is a favorite storage spot. Check the engine storage compartment as well since they expect this to be a warm spot.
- Take a look at your dashboard. Check for tiny footprints in the dust. This a favorite relaxing area for rodents to warm up in the sunshine.
- Paper towels, toilet paper, and boxed food goods are ripped up.
What Steps Can You Take To Prevent Mice Getting In?
- If you found droppings in the kitchen cupboards, chances are that they came in where the plumbing comes into the RV. Mice don't have shoulder blades, so that means as long as their head fits, they can easily squeeze through any opening. Use spray insulation foam to seal the areas around the plumbing. Seal any other areas with the foam, even if it is just a small crack.
- To prevent mice from ripping up your bedding, either remove it for the winter, or place moth balls where you store your linen. You should also place small bowls of moth balls on the table, along the floor boards, and near entryways. Drape scented dryer fabric softener sheets over the couches, mattresses, and any other upholstered goods.
- Remove any pine cones and nuts you find stored and take note of the location so you remember to check the same spots on subsequent inspections.
- Set mouse traps with peanut butter bait on your dashboard if you see evidence they have been lounging there. Use rat traps if you suspect squirrels or chipmunks have been getting in.
- Remove all paper products and food supplies for the winter.
If you take these precautions, you can hopefully forgo the winter rodent residents from enjoying your recreational vehicle. Click here to find out more information.