Pull Through Sites
Clearing out gear and looking for any damage is essential before winterizing.
Words by Jessica Rider
This article is going to be really understood by organizational mavens and ardent list makers. Even if you don’t self-identify, you can still learn some great tips about the importance of cleaning your RV after the last trip of the season and before winter storage.
Where my husband and I live, our final RV trip is usually no later than early December when we decide to put our rig in storage until late spring. This is always a sad time since we spend most of the summer and fall enjoying our fifth wheel. Before we even think of the technical aspects of winterizing our unit, we both have our designated tasks to complete.
He prepares the systems and I handle the cleaning and reorganizing. It’s important to take the time to go through your RV before closing it to ensure A) it’s clean and won’t attract any critters looking for a home during the cold weather and B) it will be a lot tidier when you hit the road in the spring.
We have a detailed system before winterizing. For us, it starts on the Sunday at a campground before we pack up to come home from our trip.
Pull Through Sites
A good, proper cleaning of your RV just means less hassle in the spring.
- I pull all of the sheets, towels, blankets, linens and clothing that we have been reusing during the season and machine wash them at home.
- I then reorganize the closet(s), under-bed storage and other compartments in preparation for the spring/summer season. Next, I create a list of everything we’ll need to replenish like toilet paper, cleaners, shampoo, soap, etc.
- The bathroom also gets a thorough cleaning including the shower walls, cabinets, and around the toilet and mirror.
- Finally, I vacuum the carpeting, mop the floors, and wipe down the cabinets and appliances.
Once we’re home, I take out the kitchenware for the winter and then pull out all the food staples like flour, sugar, and spices. Other duties include cleaning the inside the drawers and cabinets, wiping down the appliances, and emptying the freezer and refrigerator. I also keep these vented to prevent mould from growing.
At this point, my designated tasks roles are complete and my husband organizes the basement storage and takes out anything we won’t be using. He also checks the lines for leaks and uses caulking or spray foam to fill any holes inside the RV. Then, it’s time to winterize the RV.
These jobs may seem like a lot, but it only takes us two or three hours to complete, which is not a lot of time considering the benefits in the spring. The reason we do this is we look forward to travelling at the start of the season and avoid any issues that can potentially ruin our first few trips. Plus, proper cleaning, organizing and minor repairs will keep our RV on the road for many years.
Happy Camping!