Improving the Air Quality in Your RV

As evidenced by the wealth of reality TV shows on tiny houses, a recreational vehicle (RV) movement has been sweeping the nation for years — and for good reason. It’s a home away from home — on the road.

We have a few tips to share so you can keep the indoor air you breathe as healthy as possible.

Remember, all confined spaces, can become polluted. It’s easy for air to get stale due to poor ventilation. And when that happens, moisture, dust, and carbon dioxide can build up, irritating your eyes, nose, throat, and skin. This situation may prove especially harmful to people with underlying allergies or respiratory illnesses.

So if you're concerned about the air quality in your RV, don't fret! There are a number of things you can do right now to freshen up the air quality in your RV.

Leave your shoes outside

For starters, you wear your shoes everywhere, and the dirt you bring in from all over the place will only accumulate, worsening the air quality in your RV. When parked, consider setting your shoes by the door, or have shoe compartments ready to store your kicks on the go.

Open a window

Keep fresh air flowing through your home by leaving the windows open as much as possible. This is one of the easiest and best ways to ensure good air ventilation and circulation. And if you're worried about bugs, investing in a good bug screen can do the trick.

Combat moisture

There are times when you do need to keep the windows closed for long periods due to subzero temperatures or heavy rain. In these times, one of your worst enemies will be moisture.

As moisture accumulates, it invites mold, mildew — and, eventually, rot — into your home. That's why it might be good to invest in a dehumidifier to absorb excess moisture in the air, as well as an anti-moisture mesh layer to hide under your mattress, a place where mold usually grows in an RV.

Buy some plants

If you have the space, consider sprucing up your home with some greenery. The Snake plant or the flowering Zanzibar gem are great, low-maintenance options for you to get rid of all the excess carbon dioxide in exchange for some much-needed oxygen. Plants are also known to relieve your stress, both physically and mentally.

Groom your fur babies

You may love your pet, but fallen fur can worsen the air quality in your RV. That being said, make sure your pet is groomed often to prevent this from happening — and, while you're at it, throw any affected clothing into the laundry, as well.

Change Your RV Air Filters

Similar to a home air conditioning unit, your RV air conditioner has air filters that should be changed on a regular basis. Typically you will want to change your RV air filters after 90 days of consecutive use, if they get wet, or if you feel that the air quality drops.

If you are looking for the best and most reliable air filters for your RV? Don't worry, breathe happy! Get the best deals on RV air filters here on FilterTime.

Get rid of the carpet

Unfortunately, the aesthetic isn't worth it. All the aforementioned irritants — dirt, moisture, carbon dioxide, and fur — can accumulate conveniently within carpets. You can also breathe in the chemicals used in making the carpets. Aside from comfort, carpets may not add many benefits to your home.

Clean regularly

Unlike regular households, a once-a-year spring cleaning for tiny homes or RV’s isn't quite enough. At least once a month, vacuum, dust, and wipe everything down. Another crucial part of indoor home maintenance is clearing your kitchen exhaust and air filter, which will help them be more efficient at filtering out impurities and preventing grease buildup.

We hope you find these tips beneficial. And, we would love to know — Do you spend time in your RV throughout the year?

Guest post written by Reese Jones. Reese has two lovely daughters, enjoys the radio, solving jig saw puzzles and is a part-time fitness and wellness consultant.