Tea Bags Are The Unlikely Secret To Deter Pests From Your RV Pantry

Pop quiz: What's one of the most overlooked RV mistakes that can easily turn any road trip into a nightmare? No, it's not limited bathroom storage or struggling to find long-term RV parking — and it's definitely not the occasional mechanical hiccup, either. The answer? Not pest-proofing your RV. Specifically, not planning ahead for pests getting into your food.

Considering all of the other logistics and preparations that go into planning an RV trip, uninvited critters might not seem like a big deal. However, the reality is that these not-so-welcome guests can cause big problems — especially in such a confined space. Luckily, there's a handy tip you can try to keep them at bay: tea bags infused with peppermint oil.

A simple, natural solution to keeping your pantry pest-free, this easy-to-implement hack is also non-toxic — which means you don't need to worry about pesticides or harmful chemicals mixing with your much-needed road trip snacks.

The secret behind this clever hack lies in the scent of the peppermint oil, combined with the soaking effect of the tea bags. In lieu of pesticides and other chemical options, peppermint oil acts as a natural deterrent for many types of pests — including ants, spiders, and even rodents — who are repelled by the strong, minty aroma. By drenching the tea bags in peppermint oil (use at least 5 drops), you're essentially creating an invisible barrier that will keep pests far, far away — all while ensuring your supplies stay safe throughout the journey.

But the benefits of keeping tea bags handy during an RV trip don't stop at pest control. Along with deterring pests, tea bags are also excellent allies when it comes to keeping things smelling fresh — especially an RV refrigerator. Simply place a few dry tea bags inside the fridge and they'll absorb any unpleasant odors by neutralizing the pH levels found in fruits, vegetables, and other perishable items.

As for keeping your cookware nice and clean, tea bags also come in handy. If you feel like your pots are looking a little worn and dirty, just soak them in the sink with some warm water and a couple of tea bags. The tannic acid found in tea bags — especially green tea — will break down grease and make hard scrubbing a thing of the past.