5 Ways to Deter Pests from Your Motorhome
Motorhomes are not immune to pests, and nothing can spoil the perfect getaway more than unwelcome guests.
Ants, mice, and flies can find their way into your motorhome, disrupting the peace and the atmosphere of your trip.
However, following these few simple tips will ensure that your motorhome is kept pest-free so that you can enjoy it all year round.
1. Keep Your Motorhome Clean and Tidy
Keeping your motorhome clean and tidy is key to avoiding pests.
A buildup of dirt and dust can attract mice and insects, so it’s important to vacuum and mop regularly. Use a mild detergent to wipe down all furniture and surfaces and make sure any food is properly disposed of.
When storing food, keep it in airtight containers to prevent any pests from contaminating your food.
2. Seal Any Entry Points
Pests are experts at finding their way into your motorhome through small gaps and cracks.
To avoid this, inspect your vehicle for any visible cracks, gaps, or holes. Pay attention to areas near windows, doors, and vents.
Once you’ve identified potential entry points, seal them with silicone caulk or expanding foam for larger holes around pipes or wiring.
Weatherstripping around doors and windows can also wear down over time, so it’s best to replace it every few years to ensure a tight seal.
3. Use Natural Repellents
Natural repellents are a great way to keep pests out of your motorhome.
Not only are they safer for humans and pets, but they also have a more appealing aroma and are cost-effective.
Essential oils such as peppermint, lavender, eucalyptus, and citronella repel insects such as ants, spiders, and mosquitoes. Mix 10-15 drops of oil with water in a spray bottle and spray it around your vehicle.
Herbs and spices are also a useful trick for repelling pests.
- Bay leaves: These deter ants, cockroaches, and flies. Place dried bay leaves in kitchen cupboards, around food storage areas, and near entry points.
- Cinnamon: The smell of cinnamon can deter ants. Sprinkle ground cinnamon along window sills, door thresholds, and any cracks or gaps you can’t seal.
- Cloves and rosemary: These aromatic spices can be placed in sachets or small fabric bags and hung in areas where pests are likely to enter, such as near vents or storage compartments.
4. Install Mesh Screens
Mesh screens act as physical barriers for doors, windows, and vents.
These are effective at keeping out flies, wasps, and mosquitoes. Mesh screens allow you to keep doors and windows open for ventilation without worrying about pests getting in.
This is particularly beneficial for the summer months. You can also place mesh screens over vents and roof hatches.
5. Store Waste Properly
Food waste is one of the biggest causes of pests.
When disposing of food and rubbish, use sealed bins with tight-fitting lids to prevent any pests from getting in. Separating your rubbish into categories, e.g., recycled, food waste, and general rubbish, can help manage odours.
Empty the bins in your motorhome regularly at campsites or service areas to prevent rubbish buildup. Instead of pouring cooking oils, grease, or food-laden liquids down the sink, put them in a sealable container and dispose of them at disposal points. This will help you avoid drain pests.
Your Next Adventure Awaits at Melling Motorhomes
At Melling Motorhomes, we provide luxury motorhomes and campervans to hire for your next holiday or road trip.
We offer a range of vehicles, including 2- to 6-berth motorhomes, perfect for romantic getaways or family vacations.
Save yourself the money and storage space by hiring instead of buying today. The freedom of the open road is calling your name!
