How to keep insects out of your caravan or motorhome
It’s a dilemma. When it's warm outside, you'll want to open windows, doors, and fresh air vents. Doing so allows cooler air to flood into your second home. However, these openings let all manner of insects welcome themselves into your home from home.
With a little planning, you can keep most of the beasties at bay without resorting to chemical sprays or breathing in noxious fumes.
Here’s how:
Fly screens and mesh
The first line of defence is to use fly screens on doors and windows. Screens keep out the flying insects which are attracted to lighting in your home - especially at night.
Peppermint oil to keep insects out
Diluted peppermint oil works well on deterring insects without killing them. Generally, eight drops per half litre of water mixed as a spray will 'persuade' ants and flies to find other places to lodge. Peppermint oil will deter ants from returning for up to a month.
If like us, you don't want to kill a spider, merely persuade it not to return, spray it with the oil and you'll have your wish. Peppermint oil is a natural air freshener so it's a double win!
Store food correctly
Ants and flies can locate food from a distance. With that in mind, don’t leave anything on the work surfaces or just outside the home which will attract them.
Make sure the bins are closed
Ensure all your waste bins internally and externally have fully closing lids.
Ensure vents are covered
Check all vents and service entry points to your caravan or motorhome to make sure they are well meshed. This will help to stop the ingress of insects.
Try a high-tech repellent
Consider using ultrasonic insect repellents; they stay plugged in but require very little electricity to work. These are also effective at deterring rodents such as mice, rats, and squirrels.
Clean your caravan thoroughly after use
When you get home from your break, make sure to remove all traces of food and liquids from the caravan or motorhome. Think about leaving a small amount of diluted peppermint oil on one of the surfaces to deter insects whilst it's not in use.
By following these tips, you should be able to save your living space for humans and pets - and keep bugs outside where they belong.
