Why Caravan Moisture Traps Might Not Be Worth Your Money
As the colder months approach and caravans are prepared for winter storage, the familiar sight of moisture traps lining shelves at your local caravan accessory shop becomes a common one. But are these small containers filled with absorbent crystals really doing much to protect your caravan from damp? The simple answer might surprise you: in most cases, they're a complete waste of money.
The Problem with Moisture Traps
The idea behind moisture traps is straightforward. They’re supposed to collect excess moisture from the air, thereby keeping the interior of your caravan dry and free of damp. But there’s a fundamental flaw in this thinking. Caravans are not hermetically sealed units; they have ventilation points that allow external air (and the moisture it carries) to enter constantly. This means that even as these traps collect water, more moisture is entering, making it a never-ending battle.
From my experience and observations over the years, I’ve never seen a caravan with a completely dry moisture trap. Instead, they’re always filled to some degree, which misleads people into thinking they’re working effectively. But is that really the case? I decided to put this theory to the test.
A Scientific Experiment to Test Moisture Traps (Ish)
I set up a simple, yet effective experiment. I used two identical Sprite Quattro FB caravans, both brand new and with no pre-existing damp issues. In one, I placed a single moisture trap, while the other had six traps spread out evenly. After leaving them for a season, I returned to check the results.
In both caravans, all the traps were half-full of water, regardless of the number used. This means that whether you have one trap,six, or twenty, the outcome is the same: they all eventually collect the same amount water, but they’re not capable of making a significant dent in the overall moisture levels inside the caravan.
To put it into perspective, using moisture traps to control damp in a caravan is like trying to capture the Niagara Falls with a thimble. Unless you completely seal off the caravan, which isn’t practical or safe, the moisture levels will always be replaced by the incoming air. Therefore, placing just a couple of traps in your caravan might provide some reassurance, but in reality, they do very little to combat dampness effectively.
Why Do Some People Swear by Them?
After sharing my findings on social media, I received a fair amount of pushback. Many argued that they’ve always used moisture traps and never experienced damp issues. There’s a reason for this, and it’s not the traps. Moisture traps don’t prevent damp — good ventilation does.
Damp in caravans typically arises from poor air circulation rather than high humidity levels alone. If your caravan is stored in a cramped area with little airflow, or you have a cover that doesn’t allow air to circulate, then the risk of damp increases. This is why some people experience mold and mildew even with traps in place.
How to Properly Prevent Damp
To genuinely protect your caravan from damp, focus on improving airflow rather than relying on moisture traps. Here are some practical tips:
Choose a Well-Ventilated Storage AreaStore your caravan in a place where air can freely circulate around it. Avoid placing it too close to walls, hedges, or other vehicles.
Use a Breathable Cover (or No Cover at All)While some covers claim to be breathable, they can still restrict airflow. If you do use one, make sure it is loose-fitting and truly allows air to pass through. Alternatively, leave the caravan uncovered if it’s in a sheltered area.
Elevate Cushions and Remove Fabrics Mold and mildew love stagnant air. By elevating cushions or removing them altogether, you prevent damp spots from forming underneath. Curtains and other fabrics should also be taken home and stored in a dry place.
Consider Using a Dehumidifier For those storing caravans in a garage or confined space, a small electric dehumidifier might be a better investment than a moisture trap. Just ensure it has a drainage option, so you don’t have to constantly empty it, a dehumidifier will produce some element of heat while it is working which can also help with the problem.
Wipe Surfaces with Anti-Mold Cleaners Before sealing your caravan for the winter, wipe all surfaces with an anti-mold cleaner like Milton. This kills any existing spores and prevents them from multiplying during the colder months.
Final Thoughts: Moisture Traps Are a Feel-Good Purchase
While it might feel satisfying to see collected water in your moisture traps, don’t be fooled into thinking they’re truly protecting your caravan from damp. Instead, focus on improving ventilation and airflow — the real keys to a dry, healthy caravan.
Moisture traps might only cost a few pounds, and if they make you feel better, go ahead and use them. Just place them in a spot where they won’t spill during transport. However, keep in mind that they’re not a substitute for proper maintenance and environmental control.
Got a different opinion or experience? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. Feel free to share your tips or ask any questions about caravan maintenance. And if you’re looking for more in-depth advice, tune in to my segment on Caravan Radio or check out the other articles on my website. Let’s keep those caravans dry — the right way!
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