Storing your RV for any period requires preparation. Leaving the wrong items inside can cause damage, attract pests, or create extra work when you’re ready to use it again. Knowing what to remove ensures your RV stays safe, clean, and ready to hit the road when you return.
This guide walks you through what to remove from your RV before storage to avoid headaches and protect your investment.
Remove Perishable Food and Beverages
The first step is clearing out all food. Even sealed items can spoil, attract rodents, or grow mold. Check:
- Refrigerators and freezers.
- Pantry and cabinets.
- Snacks, condiments, and canned goods.
Emptying your RV of perishables prevents bad smells, pests, and messes over the storage period.
Take Out Cleaning Supplies and Chemicals
Cleaning products, solvents, and chemicals can leak or evaporate, creating odors or stains. Remove:
- Detergents, sprays, and bleach.
- Gasoline and propane canisters are not approved for storage.
- Paints and other flammable liquids.
Store these items safely at home or in a secure shed rather than inside the RV.
Remove Valuables and Electronics
Electronics and personal valuables are at risk in storage, even in secured facilities. Take out:
- Laptops, tablets, and gaming systems.
- Jewelry, wallets, and personal documents.
- Cameras and expensive electronics.
These items are better stored at home or in a climate-controlled, secure location to prevent theft or damage.
Empty Water Tanks and Lines
Water left in your RV can freeze, expand, and crack pipes. For winter or long-term storage:
- Drain the fresh water tank, gray tank, and black tank.
- Flush the water heater and water lines.
- Add RV antifreeze if recommended.
Proper winterization prevents costly plumbing repairs and keeps your RV ready to use in spring.
Remove Bedding and Linens
Sheets, blankets, pillows, and mattresses can trap moisture and attract mold or pests. Remove them from beds and furniture before storage. Store clean, dry linens in sealed plastic bags or bins at home.
This step helps keep the interior of your RV dry and odor-free.
Remove Perishable and Seasonal Gear
Items like camping supplies, outdoor furniture, or sporting equipment should be taken out if they can be stored elsewhere. Leaving them inside can increase clutter, weight, or risk of damage from shifting or moisture.
Take Out Batteries and Fuel
If your RV has batteries, disconnect or remove them. This prevents corrosion and extends battery life.
For motorized RVs, fill the gas tank and add fuel stabilizer to avoid fuel breakdown, but remove smaller portable fuel containers for safety.
Remove Important Documents
Any papers, manuals, or important documents should be taken out and stored safely. Moisture and temperature fluctuations in storage can damage paper, so keep them in a secure, dry location.
Clean and Remove Trash
Finally, give your RV a thorough cleaning and remove all trash. Empty trash bins, remove loose items, and wipe down surfaces. A clean RV reduces odors, prevents mold, and discourages pests during storage.
Final Thoughts
Properly removing certain items from your RV before storage protects it from damage, pests, and odors. Perishable food, chemicals, valuables, bedding, water, batteries, and documents should all be taken out. Seasonal gear and trash should also be removed to keep the RV organized and clean.
Following these steps ensures your RV stays in good condition, making it ready for use when you’re ready to hit the road again.
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