What Can I Put in My Camper to Keep Mice Out This Winter?
When summer adventures come to a close, it's time to prep your RV for its winter hiatus. Proper RV winterization is essential not only for general maintenance but also to safeguard your RV from unexpected winter guests—mice and other critters seeking shelter from the cold. As temperatures drop, mice often seek out warm places to nest—and your camper can be an inviting haven, leading to potential damage that’s costly to repair.
Fortunately, at South Thompson RV, we offer expert advice to help you protect your RV from these unwanted tenants. From sealing entry points to strategically placing deterrents, there are several simple yet effective steps you can take to keep pests out and your RV in top condition. Read on for some practical tips to mouse-proof your RV this winter.
How to Mouse-Proof Your RV
- Seal Entry Points. Before placing deterrents inside, ensure there are no gaps, holes, or cracks where mice can squeeze in. Inspect doors, windows, vents, and underneath the camper, sealing any openings with steel wool, caulking, or expanding foam.
- Keep Your Camper Clean. To keep mice out of your RV, start with a thorough cleaning. Rodents are drawn to food crumbs, oils, and hidden snacks. Empty your cupboards, refrigerator, and pantry, and scrub every surface to remove food traces. Even the smallest leftovers can attract mice, so meticulous cleaning is key!
- Set Up Mouse Traps. Strategically place snap traps, sticky traps, or humane traps around common entry points or in areas where mice might be tempted to hide. If traps are used, check them regularly to remove captured mice and reset.
- Use an RV cover. For a final layer of protection, consider using an RV cover. These will not only stop mice from getting in but will also provide protection from UV damage, bugs, dust, and other debris.
- Consider Ultrasonic Devices. Ultrasonic rodent repellers emit sound waves that humans can't hear but are highly uncomfortable for rodents. Plug one into an outlet in your camper for an odour-free way to keep mice at bay.
- Store Food Properly. Any leftover food, crumbs, or even unsealed pantry items can attract mice. Empty your RV of food or store it in airtight, rodent-proof containers. Clean your camper thoroughly before winterizing.
Helpful Household Items
There are several natural remedies that can help keep camper critters at bay. Here are some effective solutions you likely already have at home:
- Peppermint Oil. Mice hate the strong scent of peppermint. Soak cotton balls in peppermint oil and place them near entry points, cupboards, or areas where mice may roam. Refresh the oil regularly for maximum effectiveness.
- Vinegar. The sharp smell of white vinegar is another effective deterrent. Create a solution of vinegar and water, and use it to clean surfaces or spray areas where you suspect mice activity.
- Cloves or Cinnamon. Both cloves and cinnamon give off scents that mice find unpleasant. Sprinkle ground cinnamon or place whole cloves in mesh bags around potential nesting spots.
- Dryer Sheets. Surprisingly, mice dislike the smell of scented dryer sheets. Tuck them into drawers, storage areas, and small crevices to keep mice away.
- Steel Wool. Though not a scent-based deterrent, steel wool is a handy household item to block off small gaps or holes that mice could use to enter. They can’t chew through it!
- Mothballs. Commonly used to protect clothes, mothballs are also effective at repelling mice. Place them in corners or storage spaces, but use them cautiously as their chemical smell can be strong for humans too.
- Onions. The potent smell of onions can drive mice away. Leave a peeled onion near areas of activity, but replace it regularly as it can spoil quickly.
Get Your RV Winter-Ready with South Thompson RV
By combining these methods, you can ensure your camper remains rodent-free throughout the colder months. A little preparation now can save you from costly repairs and unwelcome surprises in the spring!
Nobody wants to open their camper, trailer, or motorhome in the spring only to be surprised by a mouse infestation. Give yourself (and your investment!) the best chance to make it through the winter rodent-free by enlisting help from an RV winterizing and mouse-proofing professional at South Thompson RV!
