Mold is one of the biggest issues that plagues RVers. No matter where you live or camp, mold and mildew will likely pop up in your RV. Mold is difficult to get rid of once it makes itself at home, so the best thing you can do is prevent it from growing in the first place. In this blog, we’ll share some tips on preventing mold in your RV, and why it’s appearance can be so dangerous.
Although common in many RVs and homes, mold can be very dangerous. It can be a major health concern for yourself and your family. Mold grows in places with a lot of moisture, and can be found indoors and outdoors.
Exposure to mold can result in a variety of adverse health effects, especially to those more sensitive (or allergic). Mold can lead to a stuffy nose, wheezing, and red or itchy eyes and skin. People with asthma can have intense reactions to mold, especially if exposed to large amounts, like fever and shortness of breath. The CDC has a helpful webpage with answers to common mold questions. The best thing you can do to protect your family is prevent mold from growing in the first place.
Dehumidify
Mold grows where its wet, so to prevent mold make sure the air in your RV is dry. If you have electricity, run a small dehumidifier to keep the air dry. This won’t work as well for RVs in storage, but it’s a great option for full-timers. You can also try a desiccant dehumidifier. These nifty devices don’t need electricity, you just put the crystals in the unit and let them do their job. They soak moisture from the air, and when all the crystals dissolve you simply replace them.
Use a fan
Fans keep the air moving, which means the moisture doesn’t settle to allow mold to grow. Fans with heaters also work to prevent mold and keep the inside of your RV dry.
Ventilate and insulate
Prevent mold by encouraging ventilation. Open a window or a vent so condensation dries out instead of collecting and growing mold. The wettest room in your RV, the bathroom, is often a hotspot for mold. Regularly run the bathroom fan, especially after a shower, and leave the door open to let the air circulate when you can. Closing the door traps warm, wet, still air that is perfect for mold. Lastly, install window insulation. Insulating your windows will keep condensation from forming, and will help regulate the temperature inside your RV.
Keep things clean
Wipe down hard surfaces, especially when you see condensation forming, to prevent mold. Don’t leave windows, countertops and other places in your RV to collect moisture. When you see water, wipe it up. You should also be sure to clean your bath mat, as it’s one of the best places for mold to grow.
Storage protection
If you’re not a full-timer, make sure to prevent mold from growing in storage. Protect your RV with a cover that will keep it safe from the elements while still allowing room for air flow and moisture evaporation.
The best thing you can do to protect yourself and your family is to prevent mold from growing in the first place. Following these tips for keeping your RV dry and well ventilated will go a long way in stopping mildew from getting a foothold. If your RV is in need of a remodel due to built up mold, contact Bradd and Hall. From new furniture to new flooring, we can replace damaged or moldy RV interiors.