Winter Storage Checklist

redrunstorage
5 days ago
3 min read

Quick Maintenance and Safety Tips from Red Run Storage

When camping season winds down and winter starts tapping on the door, it’s time to tuck your equipment in for a long winter nap. Whether you’re storing a camper, boat, trailer, or outdoor toys, a little prep now saves a ton of headaches in spring.

We see a lot of storage routines at Red Run, and we’ve gathered the best tips to help you avoid mildew surprises, spring cleaning marathons, and the dreaded “Why does my camper smell like a wet sock?” moment.

Here’s your Red Run Winter Storage Checklist — clear, simple, and designed to protect your investment.

1. Clean Your Camper or Equipment

This is not the time for the “I’ll deal with it in spring” approach. Dirt trapped under covers or tarps holds moisture, which can cause staining, mildew, or corrosion.

Do a quick run-through:

Remove food and dry goods
Sweep and wipe surfaces
Empty the fridge and freezer (and prop the doors open)
Take out trash and cleaning cloths (they hold moisture)

Spring-you will thank fall-you for this.

2. Disconnect, Drain, and Dry

Standing water freezes and expands, which can crack fittings and lines.

Checklist:

Drain tanks and lines
Blow out water system (if applicable)
Disconnect hoses
Wipe dry around faucets and sinks

Let it dry completely before covering.

3. Battery Care

Batteries don’t love winter — especially in Michigan.

Your options:

Remove the battery and store it in a warm spot (garage)
Or disconnect it and check it once a month

Keeping terminals clean and dry extends battery life.

4. Tires Matter More Than People Think

Your camper or trailer may be parked, but tires still age.

Best practice:

Inflate tires to manufacturer PSI
Use tire covers to protect from UV exposure
Move the trailer a few inches every month to prevent flat spots

Protect the rubber now = smoother arrival later.

5. Choose the Right Cover (Say No to Tarps)

A tarp traps moisture and turns your RV into a mold experiment. Instead, use a breathable RV or boat cover that allows air circulation.

What to look for:

Breathable fabric
Vented panels
Secure straps

Red Run rule:

Covers or tarps must be secured and may not hang on the ground.

Loose covers can tear, drag, and become a hazard in winter winds.

6. Secure Everything

Strong gusts + loose straps = shredded cover.

Double-check:

All tie-downs are snug
Nothing is flapping or dragging
Items are not stored outside of the camper/boat

If you’re storing here with us, we’ll keep our eyes open too — we’re on your team.

7. Do a Quick Perimeter Check

Walk around your unit with a simple checklist:

Cover tight and secure
Hitch locked (if needed)
Nothing touching the ground
No fuel or chemicals stored outside the camper

Think of it as tucking your camper in — neat, secure, ready for winter.

Bonus Tip: Visit During Winter

Come by once a month and give your camper a little love.

A quick check prevents small problems from becoming big spring surprises.

And honestly, we like seeing our customers.

Winter doesn’t have to be stressful

Winter storage is all about protection: protecting your investment, your equipment, and your time next spring. A little preparation now means less cleaning, less fixing, and more adventuring when the sun comes back out.

Download our PDF Checklist HERE:

If you still need a space for winter:

Visit: www.StorageAtRedRun.com

We’d love to keep your camper safe and sound this winter.