RV Pest Control: How to Keep Your RV Rodent and Bug-Free

Introduction to RV Pest Control/ Rodent Control

RVing is the best way to travel. The summer heat has finally started to die down and you’re ready for a nice long trip in your RV, but wait… there are bugs! And they’re everywhere. How can we keep the bugs away? What do we do about all those pesky rodents that keep trying to find their way into our homes on wheels? Fear not, here’s how to employ RV pest control with some helpful tips!

How Do You Keep Bugs Out of Your RV?

The RV lifestyle is full of excitement, but also a lot of work to keep things running smoothly. RVing comes with its fair share of pests; the worst offenders are ants, spiders, and mice.

Here are some tips for pest-proofing and getting rid of pest nuisances.

Pest Proof Your RV

The best way to deal with pests is simply to avoid getting them in the first place. RVers have a lot of options for RV or Camper Pest Control.

There are many ways to keep critters out of your RV, but the best is prevention. Pack some mothballs and place them strategically around your RV when you’re not there in order to deter pest infestation before it starts. You’ll also want to seal up any cracks or holes in your RV with caulk or other types of repair methods.

Don’t Let Your RV Get Buggy:

If you’re camping near an area where bugs are prevalent, be sure to keep the RV windows and doors closed as much as possible. Equip your RV with screens on all of the windows that can be easily opened or shut from inside for ventilation when necessary.

If you do notice an infestation or nests when RVing, go for the head. Spray any bugs that are visible and make sure to wipe off their eggs with a wet cloth or paper towel before they hatch.

How to Deal With an Infestation

Dealing with an ant or other pests infestation in your RV doesn’t have to be the end of the world. It is a manageable task with the proper knowledge and tools.

The first step is to remove or properly store any foods or liquids that attract pests. Make sure to do a deep clean of your rig. Open up all the RV windows and doors to air it out. Once you’ve removed any food, liquids, or potential nesting materials from your RV, use a residual insecticide that will last for at least six months in order to kill pests on contact.

If you are living in your RV, you may not have the option of using an insecticide such as this. In this case, be sure to use products that are safe for pet and human interaction to get rid of the bugs.

Do RVs Get Roaches?

Yes, RV’s get roaches. RVers that live in warmer climates should be especially aware of this and keep all food sealed up tightly to prevent attracting these pesky bugs.

Consider buying a non-toxic natural repellent like peppermint or eucalyptus oil for your RV. You can also use bay leaves or cedar chips to deter roaches and other bugs from entering small spaces.

What Is The Best Way to Get Rid of Ants In An RV?

Ants are a common RV pest that can be difficult to get rid of. They love sweet foods and any areas where they can build their colonies, such as kitchen cabinets and counters for example.

To prevent ants from entering your RV, use an insecticide with the active ingredient borate or sodium borate (borax) on all food surfaces and in other areas where they would be likely to enter.

If you see ants, use a product with the active ingredient borax or sodium hydroxide. This will be your best bet to kill both the insects and their larvae. If this isn’t an option for RVers, there are also some non-toxic natural repellents available such as citrus peels, eucalyptus oil, or peppermint.

Rodents: RVers Beware!

Every RV owner has their own horror story about the time a rodent got into the RV while they were camping. You can protect your RV from mice and other types of rodents by ensuring that you never leave any food out for them to feast on, especially in proximity to where they could enter your RV.

If you do see a rodent in or around your RV, be sure to call an expert for pest control right away. If mousetraps don’t do the job, you will need to hire a professional. This is important because rodents can carry diseases that are not safe for humans or pets.

How To Deal With Gnats

Gnats are annoying little buggers that need to be dealt with. A great way to rid your RV of these unwanted creatures is to use a liquid insecticide such as pyrethrin that is safe for pets and humans.

Be sure to follow the instructions on the product closely in order to avoid any damage or injury to your RV’s interior from these products.

You can also use a solution of apple cider vinegar, water, and dishwashing liquid in a bowl to attract and trap them. This is a safe and economical way to handle a gnat problem in your RV.

How To Deal With Drain Flies

Drain flies are attracted to standing water that collects in your RV. They breed and lay eggs quickly which will create more problems for you down the road if left unchecked. The best way to deal with them is to drain any standing water, clean out all the RV drains with a wire brush (if possible) and use an insecticide such as pyrethrin or carbaryl to kill eggs.

Another way to deal with drain flies is to purchase an RV drain cover. This is an easy-to-install piece of plastic that will prevent any standing water from collecting in your RV.

Can You Fumigate An RV?

Fumigation is a process where RV owners pay to have pesticides sprayed into their RV in order to kill bugs. There are also bug bombs available at any local hardware store. This can be an expensive and time-consuming task that may not always work as expected. It is best to call for pest control or fumigate your RV only if you have serious infestation problems such as termites, bed bugs, or roaches. This is always the last option after all other methods have failed.

What Is The Best Way to Deal With Mosquitos?

Mosquitos are a pest that RVers have to deal with. You can use an RV Mosquito Trap for those pesky little buggers that get into RVs. This trap uses light to attract bugs and then traps them inside once they are close enough.

Thermocel is a great product that can be used outside or inside. Thermocell products are small battery-powered items that emit heat and a repellent solution. RVers can place these in different areas of the RV to help deter mosquitos from entering windows and vents, as well as any other places that they may be getting inside your RV.

Can Bed Bugs Be a Problem?

Yes, RV’s can get bed bugs if they are not kept clean enough and free of any food. These pesky pests will slip from one surface to another (such as bedding, sheets, and clothing) so it is important for RVers to be vigilant in order to keep their rigs bug-free.

One way that you can start the process of getting rid of bed bugs is by using a vacuum cleaner. Be sure to seal the bag and dispose of it properly so these bugs do not spread to other areas.

Bed bug larvae can be killed by boiling water so RVers should boil all linens, clothes, and bedding at least once before washing them on high heat in order to kill any eggs that may be present.

Bed bug traps can also be purchased and placed under RV furniture to catch any new bed bugs before they have a chance to infest your RV.

The final option is to rid yourself of your mattress and bedding and upgrade to new and safe sleeping options. Check out this article on RV mattresses for upgrade information.

What RV Pest Control Products Can I Use?

Be sure to always read labels and instructions carefully before using any RV pest control products because you want to avoid harming your RV, pets, or family members with products that are dangerous for them. Some of the most popular RV pests include bed bugs, ants, cockroaches, and termites.

What Do I Use To Keep Pests Out of My RV Living Space?

Moth balls:

Mothballs are a popular RV pest control product that works by releasing an odor that is highly unpleasant to cockroaches and other bugs. Be sure you read the instructions on how long they need to stay in your RV before taking them out because some can be dangerous for humans if left inside too long.

Mosquito and Other Insects Repellent:

Another RV pest control option is to use a mosquito repellent such as OFF! or Cutter. These products are available in lotions and sprays. Be sure to read labels closely before purchasing any product for safety reasons since some bug repellents may not be safe for RVers or pets.

Lemon Juice:

RV owners can use a solution of water and lemon juice in bowls to attract gnats into the bowl and trap them with dishwashing liquid. This is an easy way to handle this pesky pest problem without using any toxic chemicals that could harm people or pets.

Pumpkin Spice:

Another RV pest control option is to place a pumpkin spice candle in your RV and within minutes it will start emitting an unpleasant odor that bugs don’t like. This is a great RV pest control solution for those who are sensitive or allergic to chemicals but still want protection against bugs.

Granules:

RV owners can also use RV pest control products in the form of granules that are spread on RV floors, under furniture, or cupboards where bugs might be hiding out. Be sure to read labels and instructions carefully before using any RV product so you don’t harm your RV, pets, or family members with dangerous chemicals.

Ultrasonic:

Ultrasonic RV pest control is another option RVers have to keep bugs at bay. These devices emit sound waves that are inaudible for humans but will scare away any critters and they can be hiding under furniture or inside cupboards where they might hang out.

Blue Light:

Some RVers place blue lights on the underbelly of their rigs. This will deter rodents from entering and taking up residence in your recreational vehicle.

Pesticides:

One RV pest control option is to use pesticides such as diatomaceous earth, boric acid, or bed bug foggers. Be sure to read the instructions before purchasing any of these products so you know how long they need to stay in your RV and what type of precautions should be taken while using them.

Zappers:

Another RV pest control option is to use a zapper. These devices will emit an electrical current that kills bugs by causing them to have an electric shock when they touch it.

Bug-Spray or Insect Repellent:

One RV pest control product that RVers might be familiar with is bug spray. These sprays are available in a variety of brands and formulas so RVers should take care to read labels carefully before purchasing any RV products for safety reasons.

Eco-Friendly Pest Control Products:

There are certain botanical and eco-friendly products for pest control in RVs. These RV pest control products are often made from natural ingredients and don’t contain any chemicals that could be dangerous for children, pets, or other residents.

RV enthusiasts have options when it comes to RV pest control products. Some are designed for RVers or pet owners and some can be harmful if used improperly so always read labels carefully before purchasing anything especially if you will use them inside your RV, around pets, or in the presence of children.

Stay Away: Stay away is a brand of products that RVers can use for RV pest control. This product is available as a spray (for mosquitos) or a pouch. It will repel bugs inside and outside of your RV using natural ingredients like lemongrass and citronella oils that have been shown to be effective in the past for other types of pests such as cockroaches, spiders, ants, and more.

Fresh Cab: Fresh Cab is another product that is eco-friendly RV pest control. RVers can place this product (it comes in pouch form) around their RV and it will work by creating a scent that repels pests. This RV pest control product is made from natural ingredients like balsam fir oil and plant fibers so it’s safe to be around pets and children as well.

Essential Oils: Essential oils are another eco-friendly way to prevent pests in an RV. RVers can use RV pest control products in the form of essential oils that are spread on RV floors, under furniture, or cupboards where bugs might be hiding out. Try using lemongrass or citronella.

Tea Tree Oil: RVers can also use Tea Tree oil as a form of pest control. Tea Tree oil is a natural way to deter or kill bugs and rodents in RV spaces.

What If I Travel With Pets?

Pets are notorious for attracting certain types of bugs and pests. They also make extra messes that will be the perfect bait for intruding pests. Here are some tips for pet owners.

-Use proper medication for your pets to kill and deter fleas, ticks, and other types of pests on your animals.

-Store all pet food in an airtight and sealed container.

-Be sure to clean up all pet messes promptly.

For more information on RV Travel With Pets, check out this article!

Pest Control Options for Storing and/ or Winterizing Your RV

If you plan on storing your RV for any amount of time or are winterizing it, it is important to employ pest-proofing measures.

• Clean the RV thoroughly prior to storage
• Fill holes where rodents might be able to enter your storage area including filling gaps between walls, floors
• Remove any food prior to storage
• Drain any standing water in the RV prior to storage. This is important because RV pests will use standing water as a breeding ground
• Thoroughly wash all RV surfaces with hot soapy water before storage. This will remove any food or grease and it also kills bugs
• Wrap RV windows in plastic to prevent insects from entering your RV while stored
• If you are winterizing, put mothballs around the RV’s plumbing to deter RV pests

Check out this article for more winterizing and storage tips.

Conclusion to RV Pest Control

 If you love to travel, but hate the idea of pesky bugs and rodents invading your RV, it’s time for a pest control solution before your next RV trip. The best way to keep your home away from pests is by taking proactive steps before they ever have an opportunity to invade or get inside in the first place. With these simple tips on how to avoid unwanted guests in your RV, you can be confident that bugs will never drive you crazy while traveling! 

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