Will DampRid Really Remove Moisture and Mold From Your Camper?

A damp and musty RV isn’t exactly an inviting start to your travels. Not only does it smell bad when you have an overly humid environment, but it can also create a costly repair situation. A closed-up RV with excessive moisture can provide an ideal environment for mold and mildew growth. Thankfully there are a few products that can help avoid this situation, such as DampRid. Let’s take a closer look. 

What Is DampRid and Why Do RVers Use It? 

DampRid essentially works to remove excess humidity from small spaces. It absorbs moisture so it isn’t just hanging out wreaking havoc and creating an environment for mold to grow.

DampRid generally comes in either a bag or a bucket. There are crystals that, when exposed to air, absorb the excess moisture. The crystals slowly dissolve into a saltwater solution, which you throw away when the reserve is full. 

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RVs aren’t exactly known for their extra space, so there may not be enough floor space for large dehumidifiers. DampRid is a compact and portable solution to reducing air moisture. Adding these moisture absorbers is one of the things we do to prepare our RVs for winter storage or any length of time they will be closed up.

How Exactly Does DampRid Work?

Your Damprid will usually come in a container with a lid or in an enclosed bag. Once the lid or bag is opened and placed in the desired area, the crystals will automatically start absorbing the excess moisture from water vapor in the air of that space.

As they absorb, the crystals get harder and start to dissolve into a solid clump. You’ll see this in the container and be able to feel it in the bag. As the crystals dissolve, the remaining liquid solution drips down into the bottom chamber of the container or bag. You’ll be able to see this water accumulation. Sometimes it can take a few days for the moisture to start to fill the bottom reservoir. After all the crystals have dissolved, discard or refill the product with more crystals and empty the liquid.

How to Use DampRid to Remove Moisture in Your Camper

You can place DampRid in areas that become damp with condensation, such as closets, under-bed storage, and drawers. It works especially well in these spaces when you store your RV and aren’t opening it to provide some airflow or run air conditioners.

You can also use DampRid in open areas of your RV, such as on the bathroom counter and your general living areas. Just make sure you look at the area the DampRid says it can cover, as your RV space may require more than one or a very large bucket version.

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DampRids also come in handy in winter camping situations. When you RV in winter, the cold walls and windows of the camper condenses water vapor put in the air from breathing, cooking, and showering. While you can towel much of this up, moisture absorbers like DampRids can help in the not-so-easy-to-reach areas.

➡ Learn more about Cold Weather Camping: How To RV in Winter

How Well Does DampRid Work to Remove Moisture in a Camper? 

DampRid does a surprisingly great job at reducing moisture in your RV camper. While it may not have the power of a large RV dehumidifier, it does remove moisture. If you’re skeptical, keep an eye on the liquid reserve, and you can visually see the moisture collected over time.

Those living in high-humidity areas like Florida may not remove all moisture, but DampRid is a good start and necessary when storing RVs without power.

Pro Tip: While DampRid works best in closed-up situations and closets, your best bet for reducing humidity in your RV is one of these 6 Best RV Dehumidifiers (And Why You Need One.)

Will It Eliminate Mold? 

While using DampRid can’t guarantee you won’t have mold, it certainly reduces the risk. Mold loves stale, humid air. Using DampRid and allowing airflow can significantly reduce the chances of mold taking root in your RV.

DampRid isn’t a mold remediation product, and it will not remove or kill mold from your camper. But it does work to prevent mold from growing in the first place. If you already have mold, use the appropriate products and maybe get professionals involved. Once you eliminate the mold, use a product like DampRid to help stay mold-free from that point on. 

Will DampRid Remove Pet Odor? 

Many pet owners know that distinctive pet smell that sometimes comes when their pets are in smaller confined areas such as an RV.

It certainly isn’t appealing even to the owners who love them. DampRid does a great job of helping to pull pet odors in addition to general musty smells out of the air as it collects moisture. 

Does It Contain Toxic Chemicals? 

Is DampRid safe? According to their website, DampRid uses all-natural minerals as a part of its moisture-gathering process. It uses calcium chloride, a well-known mineral that’s generally regarded as safe and non-toxic unless ingested.

However, they do recommend keeping it out of reach of pets and children, not touching the liquid or crystals, and seeking medical attention if ingested. If you touch it, wash the area thoroughly and monitor for irritation.

To properly dispose of the DampRid liquid, they advise dumping the liquid in the toilet and throwing the leftover crystals in the garbage.

Are There Good Alternatives? 

Many brands work similarly to DampRid. Walking down the cleaning aisle of your local grocery store will yield several options, such as another well-known brand, Arm & Hammer. 

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If you’d prefer a more powerful option, you may want to go with an electric RV dehumidifier. This option is perfect for those RVing in humid areas or camping in the winter when condensation is especially high. Dehumidifiers come in many sizes, from small tabletop options to large units that will hold more than a gallon of moisture in their tanks. 

How Can You Minimize Moisture in Your Camper Walls?

Airflow is essential when it comes to moisture control and mold prevention. The last thing you want to do is have a closed-up camper with zero airflow. Opening your RV’s vents dramatically reduces stale and stagnant air. Vents can remain open even in long-term storage as long as you install a vent cover. 

It is also crucial to perform regular RV roof sealant and RV window seal checks to make sure water isn’t getting into your RV’s ceiling or walls. Dark areas with low airflow are the most at risk for growing mold, which can be bad for your health. Look for water stains on your interior walls and ceiling, and if you suspect a mold issue don’t wait to get it addressed.

Pro Tip: When RVing, water damage can have many consequences. If your RV is getting moldy you’ll want to fix it quickly! Read more about why water damage is The Biggest Downfall to RVs.

Is DampRid Worth Using? 

While DampRid isn’t guaranteed to keep mold away, it’s a great way to reduce moisture, something mold loves. DampRid is especially worth it in those closed-up tight spaces like your bedroom drawers and cabinets. They can be used whether or not you’re actively in and using your RV camper, and don’t require any electricity or maintenance besides replacing them when they’ve absorbed their capacity.

Damprids and other moisture absorbers are a cheap and inexpensive way to keep your camper fresh during storage or use. We’ve used them for years and recommend them for all campers.

Have you battled excess moisture in your RV? What has worked the best for you? Drop a comment below!

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