Do I need to remove all food and perishables before storing my RV?
Do I Need to Remove All Food and Perishables Before Storing My RV? The short answer is yes, you absolutely should remove all food and perishables from your...
Do I Need to Remove All Food and Perishables Before Storing My RV?
The short answer is yes, you absolutely should remove all food and perishables from your RV before placing it into storage. This is not merely a suggestion for cleanliness; it is a critical step in protecting your investment from costly damage and infestation. Leaving even sealed or non-perishable items behind can create significant risks.
Why This Step is Non-Negotiable
An unattended RV is a prime target for pests. Rodents, insects, and other small animals possess an incredible ability to detect food sources. They can cause extensive damage by chewing through wiring, insulation, upholstery, and plumbing to access crumbs or sealed packages. The National Pest Management Association notes that rodents alone cause billions of dollars in property damage annually, and an RV's confined spaces are particularly vulnerable. Furthermore, forgotten perishables can spoil, leading to unpleasant odors, mold growth, and bacterial contamination that are difficult and expensive to remediate.
What to Remove: A Comprehensive Checklist
Adopt a "clean slate" philosophy. Remove everything from all cabinets, the refrigerator, pantry, and any storage bins. Specifically, you must remove:
- All Perishable Food: This includes any items from the refrigerator and freezer. Ensure the refrigerator and freezer are completely empty, clean, and dry, with the doors propped open to prevent mold.
- Pantry Items: This includes all dry goods, canned goods, spices, coffee, tea, pasta, and cereal. While sealed cans may seem safe, they can still attract pests. Condiments like ketchup, mustard, and cooking oils should also be removed.
- Pet Food and Bird Seed: These are powerful attractants for pests and must not be stored in the RV.
- Trash and Recycling: Empty all interior and exterior trash receptacles.
- Any Organic Material: This includes potted plants, decorative dried flowers, or air fresheners made from natural materials.
Special Considerations for Long-Term Storage
For storage periods exceeding a month, extra vigilance is required. After removing all food, perform a deep clean of all food preparation and dining surfaces. Wipe down counters, tables, and cabinets to eliminate food residues and odors. Vacuum floors and upholstery thoroughly to remove crumbs. Many RV owners find it helpful to use pet-safe and RV-safe pest deterrents, such as peppermint oil-soaked cotton balls or commercial repellents placed strategically in cabinets and under sinks, as an added precautionary measure.
What About Non-Food Items?
While the focus is on food, your preparation should extend to other liquids. Drain all water from lines and tanks to prevent freezing and bacterial growth. Remove toiletries, shampoos, soaps, and cleaning supplies, especially those with strong scents that could attract animals or degrade over time. Consult your storage facility's rules, as some may have specific requirements regarding propane tanks and batteries.
The Bottom Line
Taking the time to completely remove all food and perishables is a fundamental aspect of responsible RV storage. It directly protects your vehicle from preventable damage, preserves its value, and ensures it is ready for your next adventure without unpleasant surprises. Always confirm specific preparation requirements with your chosen storage facility, as their lease agreements may include detailed provisions on this topic. Furthermore, discuss your storage plans with your insurance provider to understand how proper preparation may relate to your coverage.