I know some of you live where you don’t have to winterize your RV’s (and I do envy you sometimes). But many of us live in places where we have to clean out the RV and restock in the spring. The following tips will work for everyone because even if you don’t have to winterize, it’s a good idea to do a little cleaning and start fresh each year.
Last fall I completely emptied out the inside of the motorhome. I went a little cleaning crazy and probably won’t empty it to the extent I did this year. But it felt so good to get in and clean those places that you just don’t get to on a weekly basis. I took out ALL of the dishes, pot and pans, and linens. I washed everything and packed them away into storage tubs with lids and stacked them neatly inside. While you might not have to remove as many things as I did, it won’t hurt if you do.
These are the things that I definitely recommend you remove and then replace in the spring…
1- Batteries. We bring them inside and use them up over the winter. We have a small container for batteries that we keep on board and stocked with various types of popular sizes. With all of my husbands gadgets and the kids toys, we have no problems using them up. Don’t forget to take out the batteries in your remote controls, flashlights and other things you won’t be using for awhile. Replace them all in the spring and they should last the season.
2- First Aid Kit. We keep a small first aid kit in the motorhome stocked with all of your basic supplies. You can find first aid kits put together for you already, but they usually cost more than if you put one together yourself. I recommend antiseptic (wipes and liquid), gauze pads, adhesive tape, latex gloves, small scissors, instant cold pack, tweezers, ace bandage, band-aids of various sizes and insect sting/bite creams.
If you are a hiker or are going to be out on extended trips in the woods I recommend you also get this type of emergency kit. Each year make sure to check the expiration dates and replace things as necessary. Make sure the kids and anyone else camping with you know where to find these items and how to use them.
3- Medications. We find it easier to stock basic medication than to keep running to the store. Good things to have on hand are….pain relief/fever items (Tylenol/Advil/Motrin), antacid, cough and cold needs for each age group of those camping, Benadryl or other allergy relief, chapstick, and anything else your family uses at home on a regular basis. Anything that doesn’t get used can easily be brought back into your house. I’m going to add Sunscreen here too because you do need to check the expiration date and replace as needed. It’s best not to store your medication in humid areas such as bathrooms. Try to find a cool, dark cabinet instead.
4- Art supplies/games. My kids will not throw out markers no matter how dried up they are. And we know most kids aren’t great about making sure the caps are on tightly. Take this opportunity to go through the arts and crafts cabinet and toss anything that is dried out, broken or crumbled up into a ball. Pick up some new markers and drawing paper. Make sure you check the games too because there will be at least one game in there that is missing pieces. Take out any games that don’t get much use and are taking up space. This is a great chance to add a new family game to the mix. Maybe one you received as a gift and have been meaning to play. It will also make that first trip out a little more fun because the kids have “new” things to check out.
5- Cleaning supplies. I don’t leave any of my cleaning products in the motorhome in the winter because of the freezing temps. I bring it all into the house and use it up and replace everything in the spring. Everyone has their own preferences. My supplies include….Fantastic or 409, Lysol, dish soap, Fabreze (not sure if it’s the kids or the dogs smelling up the place !) Pledge, Mr. Clean Magic Eraser,Windex, and tub and tile cleaner. I also keep a small container of laundry supplies on board because I discovered very quickly that you never know when you are going to need them ! Disasters happen even on short, two day weekends. (I will save that story for another day.)
I hope this helps give you an idea of where to start. As I said earlier, even if you camp all year round it’s always a good idea to take stock of your supplies, check the dates and replace things as needed.
If anyone needs me, I will be out stocking up the motorhome,
~Shannone