Whether you’re a seasoned RV owner who’s used to the annual winterizing routine or a new RV owner who just scored a deal on a used, end-of-season trailer, winter RV maintenance and servicing are essential for the performance and comfort of your investment. Taking the time to winterize your RV properly doesn’t just protect it during the colder months; it sets you up for a stress-free spring and summer on the roads next year!
With a little planning and elbow grease, you can avoid costly repairs down the road and ensure that your RV is road-ready once the camping season rolls back around. Considering it’s your “home away from home” for months of the year, doesn’t your RV deserve a little TLC? Let’s dive into why winterizing matters for RVs and how The Foam King can help you get your interior just as squared away and protected as your engine and exterior.
Why It’s Vital to Winterize Your RV Interior, Too
It’s common to focus on protecting your RV mechanical systems, like draining the water tank and checking the fluid lines, but interior maintenance is just as important. Neglecting to winterize your RV’s interior can lead to moisture buildup, creating an ideal environment for mould and mildew to flourish while it’s out of sight and out of mind. Mould doesn’t just smell bad; it can cause serious health issues and ruin your textiles, and it’s usually a sign you have broken seals. Improperly sealed windows and doors in an RV can lead to drafts, leaks, and even structural damage.
Even if all of your seals are tight, humidity is another factor to consider. When trapped inside during the cooler months, humidity can lead to condensation that seeps into your upholstery, wood, and other porous surfaces. Investing in moisture absorbers or using a dehumidifier is an easy and affordable way to keep things dry in your RV when it’s unoccupied. Another cheap and easy fix to winter water damage is storing your RV mattresses and cushions vertically on their edge rather than leaving them lying flat for months. This helps release any moisture into the air to dissipate, rather than allowing it to dampen your upholstery and grow mould over the winter. A well-winterized interior protects your belongings and saves you from an unpleasant surprise (and smell!) come spring when you open your RV for the first time in months.
Update Your RV’s Upholstery for Optimal Health and Comfort
For those who caught a deal and bought their RV secondhand at the end of the summer, there’s little more exciting than thinking about all the adventures you’ll be having next year in your new mobile home- but before you settle in, it’s smart to assess the condition of all the mattresses, cushions, and fabrics inside. Over time, RV mattresses and cushions can accumulate allergens, dust, and even mould, especially if they’re made of inferior-quality foam… or from the 70s. These aren’t just unsightly or smelly issues; they can also lead to health problems, especially if you’re sensitive to allergens or have respiratory issues. Replacing or upgrading old mattresses and cushions makes a huge difference in both the comfort and hygiene of your new-to-you RV.
Thankfully, The Foam King is your one-stop shop for all your RV upholstery needs! We offer a variety of solutions to revamp your RV interior with fresh, high-quality foam products. Whether you need a custom-cut mattress or replacement cushions for your dining area, upgrading to new, hypoallergenic foam will ensure your space is comfortable and clean moving forward. Trust us; it doesn’t matter how old your original textiles are- we can make custom foam solutions and covers to fit any shape, size, or style of interior upholstery! With a custom foam RV mattress or cushion from The Foam King, you can enjoy the best sleep possible, even when you’re not at home!
The Foam King’s Top Five Tips for Winterizing Your RV
- Drain the Water System Completely- Freezing temperatures can damage your RV’s pipes and water tanks- and the last thing you want is a damaged black water tank. Drain all the water from the system and add RV-approved antifreeze to prevent any residual water from freezing and causing leaks.
- Inspect and Seal Windows and Doors- Check for gaps or damaged seals around windows and doors. If your seals aren't secure, cold air, moisture, and even unwanted houseguests (aka critters) can find their way inside. Applying weatherproof sealant can help protect against these winter issues.
- Disconnect the Battery and Store It Safely- Batteries don’t fare well in sub-zero temperatures, so removing your battery to store it in a warm, dry place over the winter will make a massive difference to its longevity. This will help prolong the usage you get from it and ensure it’s ready to roll when spring arrives.
- Use Moisture Absorbers- Humidity and condensation can build up quickly in enclosed spaces, even cold ones. Place moisture absorbers throughout your RV during the winter to reduce condensation and prevent mould from growing on any surfaces and fabrics while your RV is in storage.
- Cover Your RV or Store It Under Shelter- Try to store your RV in a covered area or use a high-quality cover to protect it from snow, ice, and wind whenever possible. This keeps the exterior clean and free from winter damage, especially damaging water, to help it stay in tip-top shape year after year.
Let The Foam King Help You Keep Your RV Ready for Adventures Year-Round!
Winterizing your RV may take a little time and effort, but it’s worth it to protect your investment. Taking care of both the exterior and interior ensures your RV stays in great shape and is ready for adventure year-round. And if your RV needs a little refresh in the comfort department, The Foam King has everything you need to transform your “home away from home,” from custom-cut cushions and foam RV mattresses to any other foam replacement needs.
With the proper winter prep, you’ll be ready to hit the road with a fresh, clean, and comfortable RV once camping season rolls around again. Visit our website, stop by the store, or contact our team to learn how The Foam King can help keep your RV in the best shape moving forward!