What can go wrong (and why it happens)

When a van is sealed up in heat or stored too long without airflow, these are the usual troublemakers:

1) Mould & mildew (the big one)

• Why: Warmth + humidity + no airflow.
• Where: Ceilings, cupboards, mattress bases, carpet, bathroom corners, soft furnishings.
• Early signs: Musty smell, damp wardrobe corners, black specks on silicone or fabric.

2) Heat damage to sealants, adhesives & trims

• Why: Hot sheds can spike internal temps and accelerate expansion/contraction.
• What you might see: Lifting trims, bubbling laminates, vinyl lifting, sealant pulling away over time.
• Early signs: Peeling edges, bubbles, sticky residue, small gaps opening around joins.

3) Plastics, rubber seals & upholstery degrading

• Why: Heat + UV (even through windows) accelerates drying, cracking and fading.
• Early signs: “Dry” feel to rubber seals, brittle clips/handles, fading near windows.

4) Fridge mould & stubborn interior odours

• Why: Closed fridge + warmth = mould in the cavity and on seals.
• Early signs: Odour, mould film, seal sticking to the frame.

5) Batteries going flat or dying early

• Why: Batteries self-discharge, and extreme temperatures can shorten lifespan.
• Early signs: Low voltage, charger struggling, appliances cutting out early.

6) Tyres, brakes & running gear issues

• Why: Long periods stationary can cause tyre flat spots and surface rust on brakes.
• Early signs: Thumping when towing initially, cracked sidewalls, squeal/grab on first brake applications.

7) Rodents & insects moving in

• Why: Still, sheltered vans are attractive nesting spots.
• Risk: Chewed wiring, nest material near appliances, contamination from droppings.

8) Water system going stale

• Why: Water sitting in tanks/lines can develop odour and biofilm.
• Early signs: “Swampy” smell, cloudy water, slime in strainers/filters.

Best-practice storage (simple, practical, worth doing)

A) Start with airflow (stop the van becoming a hot, damp box)

• Cross-ventilate if safe: A roof vent plus another opening on the opposite side is ideal (only if security and weather allow).
• Open internal doors: Cupboards, pantry, bathroom door — let air move everywhere.
• Mattress management: Lift/prop mattresses so air can circulate underneath (condensation loves mattress bases).

B) Control moisture (assume moisture will build up)

• Dry it first: Never store the van closed up after rain or a trip until everything is fully dry (bathroom, floors, towels, mats, canvas if applicable).
• Moisture absorbers: Place in wardrobes, under-bed storage, bathroom. Check and replace regularly.
• If you have shed power: A small dehumidifier can be a game-changer for long storage periods.

C) Reduce heat spikes (hot shed tips)

• Choose the coolest spot: Shade + airflow around the van matters more than people think.
• Window protection: Close blinds/curtains and consider reflective shades to reduce heat and UV.
• Avoid “heat-trap” covers: If using a cover, choose a breathable caravan cover and ensure airflow (see cover section below).
• Remove heat-sensitive items: Aerosols/pressure cans, some chemicals, anything likely to leak or expand.
• Batteries: Follow your battery manufacturer’s storage guidance closely — especially in extreme heat.

D) Covers & weather protection (if stored outside or in a carport)

• Best: Shed/carport with good airflow.
• If using a cover: Use a breathable caravan cover designed for long-term use.
• Clean + dry first: Never cover a dirty or damp van.
• Secure it properly: A flapping cover can rub corners and edges over time.
• Check after wind: Re-tension straps and inspect rub points.

E) Fridge & pantry (prevent stink, mould and surprises)

• Empty the fridge completely.
• Clean and dry it (pay attention to door seals).
• Store the fridge door ajar: Use the fridge “vent latch” if fitted, or a soft spacer so it’s cracked open (not sealed shut).
• Remove food and crumbs (even “sealed” items can attract pests in heat).

F) Batteries & power (keep them healthy)

• Isolate loads: Turn off isolators and anything with parasitic draw (monitors, routers, etc.).
• Maintain charge: If possible, use a suitable maintainer/charger that matches your battery chemistry.
• Quick monthly check: A 30-second voltage/charger check can save an expensive replacement.

G) Water system (don’t let it go stale)

• Long-term storage: Consider draining tanks/lines if the van will sit for months.
• If you keep water in the system: Flush/run taps periodically.
• Before your next trip: Flush and sanitise if it’s been sitting.

H) Tyres, brakes & moving parts

• Inflate tyres to recommended pressures (including spare).
• If possible, roll the van slightly every few weeks to change tyre contact points.
• Handbrake caution: Leaving it on for long periods can contribute to sticking in some setups — use wheel chocks and follow your manufacturer guidance.
• Inspect tyres for cracks before towing (heat accelerates sidewall deterioration).

I) Pest prevention

• Remove all food and clean crumbs thoroughly.
• Check obvious entry points (around plumbing entries and service penetrations).
• Inspect common nesting zones: under beds, behind drawers, near appliances and under the van.
• If you’re storing on a farm/near grass, increase inspection frequency.

Quick checklist

Before you store it

• Wash and dry exterior (and underbody if needed) — dirt and salt hold moisture.
• Dry bathroom, floors, towels, mats and soft furnishings completely.
• Empty/clean fridge and store door ajar.
• Remove food and anything that can leak/spoil.
• Open cupboards/internal doors and prop mattresses for airflow.
• Set up safe ventilation.
• Place moisture absorbers and note the date to check them.
• Isolate batteries and/or connect a suitable maintainer.
• Inflate tyres and chock safely.

During storage (monthly if you can)

• Air it out for 10–20 minutes (if possible).
• Check moisture absorbers and any signs of mould.
• Check battery voltage/charger status.
• Look for pest activity.
• Roll the van slightly (if practical) to prevent tyre flat spots.

Before your next trip

• Do a “sniff test” — musty smell = investigate immediately.
• Inspect seals and join lines for changes.
• Check tyres for cracks and correct pressure.
• Flush/sanitise water system if it’s been sitting.
• Test key systems (fridge, electrics, hot water/heater) before departure day.

One simple rule: Heat + closed van + time is the perfect recipe for mould, smells and deterioration. Your goal is to reduce temperature spikes, keep air moving and control moisture.

If you’re unsure about storage steps for your specific battery/appliance setup, or you spot mould/water ingress signs, please lodge a support ticket with your van details and a couple of clear photos — we’ll point you in the right direction.