The Ultimate Guide to RV Interior Maintenance: Protecting Your Investment This Winter

As the temperatures drop, most RV owners focus entirely on blowing out water lines and adding antifreeze. While winterizing your plumbing is vital, many people overlook the interior of their coach.

Leaving an RV closed up for months can lead to unwanted surprises in the spring - think musty odors, mold, or even uninvited furry guests. At Rocky Valley RV, we believe a little "Monday Maintenance" now saves you thousands in restoration later.

Here is our comprehensive guide to deep cleaning and protecting your RV interior during the winter months.

1. The "Crumb-Free" Guarantee: Pest Prevention

The number one rule of RV storage? If there is a crumb, they will find it! Mice and insects look for warm, quiet places to spend the winter, and your RV is the perfect "hotel".

• Deep Vacuuming: Move the slides in and out to reach those hidden crevices. Vacuum under the dinette cushions and behind the sofa.

• The Pantry Purge: Remove all dry goods (flour, pasta, cereal) that aren't in airtight plastic or glass containers.

• Wipe it Down: Use a disinfecting cleaner on the inside of drawers and cabinets to remove food scents that attract pests.

  
  

2. Managing Moisture and Mildew

East Tennessee winters can be damp. When an RV is sealed tight, trapped moisture can settle into upholstery and wood, leading to mildew.

• Airflow is Key: If you have roof vent covers (like MaxxAir), keep the vents cracked slightly to allow air exchange without letting rain in.

• Dehumidify: Use moisture-absorbing crystals (like DampRid - https://bit.ly/DampRidRV) or a small electric dehumidifier if you have shore power. Place them in the kitchen and bathroom.

• Prop Open Doors: Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors propped open to prevent that "stale" smell.

  
  

3. Upholstery and Surface Protection

Cold air is dry air, which can be hard on vinyl, leather, and wood.

• Conditioning: Use a specialized RV vinyl/leather conditioner on your captain's chairs and sofa to prevent cracking.

• Curtain Call: Close your shades or blinds. This protects your furniture and flooring from UV damage and provides an extra layer of insulation against the cold glass.

• Surface Cleaning: Dust acts as an abrasive. A thorough wipe-down of all hard surfaces prevents "settled-in" grime that becomes harder to clean after months of sitting.

  
  

Need a Hand? Rocky Valley RV is Here to Help!

Don't spend your winter worrying about your camper. Whether you need a full winterization package or a mid season inspection, our expert service team is ready to help.

We are proud to serve the Dandridge area and beyond. Let us do the dirty work so you can focus on planning your next great adventure!