Mold Prevention & Camping 101: Say YES to S’mores and NO to Spores

Who doesn’t enjoy a fun-filled weekend of camping out in the middle of the woods? It is something all family members can enjoy, it brings couples closer together, and it provides a great backdrop for buddies to do some bonding. But if Hollywood has taught us anything it is that horrific things can go wrong on campsites. There may not be a crazy guy running around in a hockey mask brandishing a knife, but if you are sleeping in a camper you may also be sleeping in a vile den of mold—oh the horror!

What if Your Camp is Damp?

When one thinks of black mold spores they almost always imagine a household disaster in which a pipe burst, and the homeowner failed to phone a water damage restoration service and, as a result, developed a mold infestation. But if your camper has a toilet, faucets, drains, and showerheads then your camping excursion could be interrupted by mold. Furthermore, if your RV is not properly sealed and insulated, mold spores could find their way through a crevice and settle in a moist corner.

How to Check for Mold in an RV

If you think you might have a mold problem in your RV or camper, there are three steps you can follow. Start by inspecting the camper. Check under sinks, in the shower area, in the stove, all gel-coated exteriors, in storage compartments and check the caulking around the windows and doors. You should also examine the ceilings while paying close attention to the ceiling vents. Also, because most vinyl is semi-organic, mold loves to grow on it, so check your awnings for any black spots. You should also examine your appliances and the water and sewage hook-ups. If you see any black splotches contact a mold removal company right away, as delaying the remediation process could risk the health of your family.

How can I Prevent Mold from Terrorizing my RV?

Make repairs! If you have leaking faucets, drain clogs, damaged caulking, or inadequate bathroom ventilation you might as well have an “open house” for every mold spore floating around in the woods.  It would also be wise to invest in a small room dehumidifier to control the moisture and humidity levels in your RV. Not only will one of these devices keep mold at bay, it will also provide cleaner air for you and your family to sleep in.

Beware of the Air

Just because you are away from city pollution and living it up in the Great Outdoors does not mean you are safe from the clutches of mold. According to the Wisconsin Rapids Tribune a number of campsites committed multiple violations that encouraged mold growth and risked the health of every camper and employee on the premises. Remember, mold spores are organic little parts of nature that belong outdoors and they are attracted to humid, moist environments. By inspecting your RV and making any needed repairs you can encourage them to stay outdoors where they belong! Go ahead and break out the chocolate, graham crackers, and marshmallows and say YES to dark chocolaty s’mores and NO to black disgusting spores!