Can you Bug Bomb your RV? Plus tips to get rid of Unwanted Critters

Your RV makes life on the road an exciting adventure, but sometimes the maintenance involved can be frustrating. From flat tires to leaky pipes, your home on wheels will certainly have the occasional issue. But what about cases when the issue doesn’t come from your RV’s equipment? With an adventurous lifestyle come the wonders of wildlife, so you may wonder what to do if bugs or critters make their way into your RV. At some point, many RV lovers will ask, can I bug bomb my RV?

Can you bug bomb your RV? Yes, you can certainly bug bomb your RV. Products are available at most hardware stores and are easy to use. It will also benefit you to know how to prevent infestations in the first place, the other options you have for removing them, and the steps to take if you do decide to use a bug bomb. 

Below we’ll take a look at every component that goes into maintaining a pest-free RV. These situations are bound to happen, so minimizing their occurrence will help you stay happy while camping in your RV. Armed with knowledge and the correct tools, you’ll be able to enjoy a cozy, bug-free space for years to come.

Can I use a bug bomb on my RV?

Yes, you can use a bug bomb on your RV, but there are a few important steps to make sure the process runs smoothly. First, you’ll want to disconnect the propane in your RV, along with batteries, solar panels, or any other elements that could potentially produce sparks. Completely disconnecting from the power line is an additional step to take as well. The chemicals in a bug bomb are flammable, so it is best to proceed with caution.

Next, you’ll want to disable smoke and CO2 alarms in your RV. You’ll need to leave your RV shut for several hours, so you won’t be able to enter again if the chemicals trigger an alarm in your RV. 

You’ll also want to remove any food and valuables that you don’t want to come into contact with the chemicals of your bug bomb. Dishes and food bowls for pets should be removed to prevent contact with the chemicals as well.

One way to reduce the mess associated with a bug bomb is to place it inside a bucket before setting it off. This can keep the clean up to a minimum afterward. However, you’ll want to make sure this is a safe method for you before proceeding. Always read the instructions on the bug bomb’s packaging and consult with a professional before deviating from its advice. 

How can I prevent bugs from getting into my RV?

There are several products on the market for preventing bugs from entering your RV in the first place. Many seasoned RV owners develop specific methods that they swear by. Depending on your situation, where you travel, and which pests you need to deter, your method will vary slightly. Here are a few of the products and other strategies for preventing bugs from getting into your RV.

• Use bug sprays like Raid
• Place mothballs or dryer sheets in storage areas or small holes
• Install Water Heater vent covers
• Use white vinegar as a natural insect spray
• Use natural remedies like peppermint or tea tree oil 
• Light Citronella candles
• Install Refrigerator Vent Covers
• Install bug screens to all windows
• Always keep your RV clean, making a special effort to remove all residue from food and drinks
• Remove all food from RV when not in use
• Keep food stored in air-tight containers
• Keep drains and other holes covered when not in use
• Patch any holes in your vehicle
• Try surrounding your RV with borax or diatomaceous earth, a natural, non-toxic bug repellant powder
• Minimize the contact your power cord has with the ground, and create barriers with sticky tape or other methods to prevent bugs from using the cord as an entry point into your vehicle
• Always turn off propane when not in use
• Cover your vents when the vehicle is not in use
• Install furnace vent covers

What are some other ways to get rid of bugs in my RV?

Maybe you already have a pest problem, but you’d like to know some alternatives to bug bombs. Many RV owners like to avoid the number of harsh chemicals that bug bombs emit, or prefer even more efficient methods for removing pests. Here are a few other options you can try before deciding to bug bomb your RV. Check these out before deciding your preferred pest removal strategy.

• Hire professional pest control services
• Use pest strips or double-sided tape
• Apply gel insect repellant, like Combat Gel
• Use pest traps or ant baits to catch insects
• Use natural remedies like peppermint, clove, or tea tree oils, cayenne pepper, or citrus peels, as these are said to deter spiders and other pests. You can even make a spray bottle with these oils and spray away!

Steps for using a bug bomb on my RV:

Plenty of RV owners eventually decide to go the bug bomb route. It is a quick and efficient way to obliterate an infestation and get back to a pleasant life on the road. If you decide to use a bug bomb, follow these steps for a safe and efficient pest removal experience.

• Make sure your propane tank is turned off
• Disable smoke or CO2 alarms
• Turn all power switches off including your RV’s battery
• Unplug your RV’s power line
• Empty cabinets and leave them open 
• Close up all windows, vents, and external doors
• Make sure internal doors are open so chemicals can circulate through the whole RV
• Remove all food from your RV
• Follow the instructions on your bug bomb to set it off properly
• Wait for the amount of time indicated on your bug bomb can before entering your vehicle
• After waiting, open windows, vents, and doors to begin airing out your RV
• After entering your vehicle, clean up the aftermath. Wash fabrics that were exposed to the chemicals, vacuum up any dead insects, and wipe down surfaces.

Conclusion

Bugs can add an element of frustration to any RV trip. It’s wise to have a few prevention methods on-hand while on the road, and also know what to do in case an infestation does arise. With this information, you can take care of your bug problem quickly and get back to the exciting adventures of life on the road!