- Prepping your boat or RV before storage protects it from mold, pests, flat tires, dead batteries, and expensive repairs.
- Boat storage needs cleaning, engine care, fluid checks, battery disconnection, and proper covering.
- Matthews Boat and RV Storage offers 24/7 access, full security, outdoor storage spaces, and friendly local service in Bluffton, SC.
When you’re done cruising the water or hitting the open road, knowing how to store a boat or RV the right way makes a big difference. You don’t just park it and forget it. Getting your boat or RV ready for storage can help you keep it in good shape for the next season.
At Matthews Boat and RV Storage, we see a lot of owners in Bluffton, SC, looking for a safe, clean place to store their vehicles. We’re here to help with that and also with the right steps to get your boat or RV ready for storage.
Let’s walk through what you need to do, why it matters, and how we can help you store your vehicle with confidence.
Why Storage Prep Matters for Long-Term Care
Getting your boat or RV ready for storage helps keep it in good condition and saves you from dealing with costly repairs later. Here are some problems you can face without any prep:
- Mold and Mildew: Boats, especially, can trap moisture, leading to musty smells and stubborn mold spots.
- Plumbing Damage: RV plumbing systems can grow bacteria, crack, or clog if water sits too long.
- Pests: Unclean or unsealed vehicles can attract rodents, bugs, and birds looking for shelter.
- Flat Spots on Tires: When tires sit in one place too long without proper inflation, they can develop flat spots that affect driving later.
- Dead Batteries: Batteries left connected can lose their charge or build corrosion over time.
- General Wear: Dust, dirt, and outdoor exposure can slowly wear down surfaces, seals, and paint.
Why prep makes a difference:
- Keeps your boat or RV clean and dry
- Protects the engine, tires, and battery from damage
- Keeps pests away
- Helps you avoid costly repairs later
- Saves time when you’re ready to use your vehicle again
When Is the Right Time to Store Your Boat or RV?
Knowing when to store your boat or RV depends on your schedule, the season, and how often you use it. In Bluffton, SC, many people store their boats during the colder months or when hurricane season approaches. RV owners often store their vehicles between trips, especially if they don’t have space at home.
If you notice you’re not using your boat or RV regularly, or you’re heading into an off-season, that’s usually the best time to start preparing for storage. The sooner you start the prep work, the better you’ll protect your vehicle.
Preparing Your Boat for Storage
Getting your boat ready for storage takes more than just parking it. Here’s what to focus on.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Start by washing your boat thoroughly. Dirt, salt, and grime can eat away at the surfaces if left idle. Scrub the hull, the deck, and the interior. Make sure to remove all food, gear, and personal items. Wipe down cabinets and seats. If you have carpet or fabric inside the boat, make sure it’s fully dry before storing.
Clean boats last longer and are less likely to attract pests. Dirt and damp areas create a perfect home for bugs and rodents, and they can be hard to deal with later.
Engine Care
Run fresh water through the cooling system to rinse out salt or dirt. Add fuel stabilizer to keep the gas from breaking down. If your boat will be stored during freezing weather, drain any water from the engine to protect it from damage. Change the engine oil if needed. Dirty oil left sitting can lead to a buildup that’s hard to clean later.
Fluid Management
Go through all your fluid levels. Drain the water tanks, flush the plumbing system, and check the antifreeze if your boat has it. Moisture left in the system can freeze or grow mold. It’s always better to store your boat with the fluids properly managed.
Battery Steps
Disconnect the battery to stop it from draining while your boat is in storage. Store the battery in a cool, dry place if possible. If you choose to leave it in the boat, check that all switches are turned off. A dead or damaged battery is one of the most common problems owners face when pulling their boats out of storage.
Covering and Securing
Cover your boat with a proper boat cover that fits well and allows for air circulation. A tight cover helps keep out dust, debris, and animals. If your boat will sit outside, this step is even more important. A loose or poorly fitting cover can trap moisture and cause problems.
At Matthews Boat and RV Storage, we offer outdoor RV storage and boat storage spaces that work well with covered and wrapped boats. Parking on a clean, secure lot helps keep your vehicle in top shape.
Preparing Your RV for Storage
RV storage takes a little more work because you’re dealing with a small home on wheels. Let’s go through the key steps.
Interior and Exterior Cleaning
Clean your RV from top to bottom. Wipe down all surfaces, sweep and mop the floors, and remove any food or crumbs that might attract pests. Clean out the fridge and leave the door slightly open to prevent mold. Then, wash and dry the RV to get rid of dirt, grime, and road salt. Waxing can add an extra layer of protection.
Plumbing and Fluid Systems
Drain all the water tanks, including fresh water, gray water, and black water tanks. Flush the lines and leave everything dry. This step keeps the system from growing mold or freezing if temperatures drop.
If your RV will sit through winter, consider adding RV antifreeze to the system to help with temperature changes. Check other fluids too, like engine oil and coolant. Topping these off before storage can help prevent air pockets and other issues.
Tire Care
Tires can lose pressure while sitting, which can lead to flat spots or cracking. Inflate your tires to the recommended pressure before parking. If you’re storing the RV for a long time, consider using tire covers to block sunlight and protect the rubber. Moving the RV a few inches every few weeks can also help avoid flat spots if possible.
Battery and Electrical Steps
Just like with a boat, disconnect the RV’s batteries to prevent power drain. If you have a motorhome, you may need to disconnect both the house and engine batteries. Make sure all appliances are unplugged, and turn off the main breaker if you’re not using shore power.
Pest Prevention
Pests can cause major headaches in RV storage. Block all possible entry points, including vents, pipes, and small gaps. Use screens or covers where needed. Remove all food and store items in sealed containers. You can also place natural repellents like peppermint oil or dryer sheets inside the RV to help keep bugs and rodents away.
At Matthews Boat and RV Storage, our clean, paved lots make it harder for pests to find a way in compared to grassy or dirt lots.
Final Storage Checklist
Before you leave your boat or RV at the storage lot, run through this quick checklist:
- Clean the entire vehicle, inside and out
- Disconnect batteries
- Drain fluids and plumbing systems
- Close all windows, vents, and gaps
- Cover the vehicle with a snug, breathable cover
- Inflate tires to the proper pressure
- Remove personal items and food
- Lock all doors and compartments
- Double-check pest prevention steps
- Make sure your vehicle is parked safely and securely
When you store with Matthews Boat and RV Storage, you can relax knowing your boat or RV is parked in a well-maintained facility with 24/7 access and full security. Our location in Bluffton, SC, is perfect for local owners who need dependable storage.
How Matthews Boat and RV Storage Keeps Your Vehicle Safe
When you’re looking for boat and RV storage in Bluffton, SC, you want more than just an open lot. You want a place that feels safe, is easy to reach, and gives you peace of mind.
Here’s what you get with us:
- 24/7 Access:You can visit your boat or RV whenever you want. Early mornings, late nights—it’s always open.
- Full Security:We have camera surveillance, secure fencing, and well-lit spaces to keep your vehicle safe around the clock.
- Outdoor RV Storage and Boat Storage Spaces:Whether you need short-term or long-term parking, we have room for you.
- Friendly Service:We’re local. We’re part of the Bluffton community. When you store with us, we’re always here to help.
Choosing the right storage space is part of protecting your vehicle. We take that seriously.
When you follow the right steps—cleaning, draining, covering, and securing—you can park with confidence. At Matthews Boat and RV Storage, we offer easy, safe, and reliable boat and RV storage that Bluffton owners trust. Whether you’re storing for a season or just between trips, we’re here to make it simple for you.
Ready to store your boat or RV? Give us a call or swing by Matthews Boat and RV Storage today! Let’s find the right spot for your vehicle!