Controlling Pests in Your RV

Unwanted hitchhikers like insects and rodents can really mess up your RV camping trip. If you notice bad smells, droppings, nests, or chewed wires, you might have an infestation on your hands. Luckily, these strategies from the experts at Jim’s Trailer Sales can help you better deal with pests in your RV.

Cleaning

Food traces like crumbs and spills might not seem like a huge deal, but letting them sit for too long can create a long-term smell. That smell, even if it’s too faint for humans to detect, sends pests the message that your RV is a place where food is easy to find. That’s why routinely cleaning your RV is one of the best things you can do to help keep pests out. That’s also why we recommend keeping your dry food in airtight containers.

Rodents

Rats and mice usually get inside your RV through small holes in your camper’s frame. The best way to keep them out is to inspect your RV’s exterior every once in a while and plug any holes you see. If rodents are already inside your RV, rat traps and rat poisons are usually effective, though be sure to follow any and all safety precautions should you choose to use them. 

Insects

Different insects require different pest control approaches. Roaches, for example, can be dealt with using roach bait or insecticides. Just be careful about how you use these substances, as they are just as toxic to people and pets as they are to insects. If ants have formed a colony in your RV, track them back to their home so that you can be sure that you get all of them. If you’d rather not use harsh chemicals to kill the ants, try vacuuming them up to dispose of them elsewhere. If there are still ants crawling around, spray the area with soapy water and wipe them away. Bees and wasps are a bit harder to deal with due to their stingers. If they’ve built a hive in your RV, you may need to seek the help of a professional exterminator. If you decide to deal with the hive yourself, be sure to wear protective gear. 

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