Keeping an RV refrigerator door closed while traveling can be a challenge for many RV owners. The last thing anyone wants is to arrive at their destination only to find that their food has spoiled or made a huge mess due to an open refrigerator door. Fortunately, there are several solutions to this problem that can help keep your RV refrigerator door securely closed while on the road.
We’ll go over seven different methods that are all relatively cheap and easy ways to keep your RV or camper’s refrigerator door closed while it’s moving. Read on to learn more.
Why it’s Important to Keep the RV Refrigerator Door Closed While Traveling
Keeping the RV refrigerator door closed while traveling is critical for several reasons. First and foremost, it helps to prevent food spoilage. When the refrigerator door is open, warm air from the outside enters the refrigerator and causes the temperature inside to rise. This can lead to wasted food that you have to throw out because it’s bad- or it can pose a health risk to those who unknowingly eat it!
In addition to preventing food spoilage, keeping the RV refrigerator door closed while traveling also helps to conserve energy. When the refrigerator door is left open, the refrigerator has to work harder to maintain the desired temperature, which can cause it to use more energy than necessary. This can drain the RV’s battery or propane tank faster and lead to additional expenses.
Another reason why it’s important to keep the RV refrigerator door closed while traveling is safety. An open refrigerator door can be a hazard while driving, as items inside the refrigerator can shift and fall out, potentially causing an accident. An open camper fridge door can also cause items inside the refrigerator to spill out and create a mess, including broken glass.
Methods for Keeping the RV Refrigerator Door Closed While Traveling
Bungee Cords
One of the most common ways to keep an RV refrigerator door closed while traveling is to use bungee cords. Simply attach one end of the bungee cord to the refrigerator handle and the other end to a stationary object, such as the wall or a cabinet. This will keep the door securely closed while you’re on the road.
If your RV setup isn’t ideal for bungee cords, don’t worry- there’s plenty other options to consider below.
Clean the Gasket
If your RV refrigerator door won’t stay closed, the gasket could be to blame. Over time, gaskets can become worn or damaged, which can prevent the door from sealing properly.
Clean the gasket with a microfiber towel and some soapy water, then also clean the inside edge of the RV fridge where the gasket lands to make sure both “edges” are extremely clean.
Once everything’s dry, apply a generous layer of vaseline on the gasket, which will help it stick better.
Child Safety Locks
Installing child safety locks on your RV refrigerator takes less than five minutes and only costs about ten bucks. These locks are designed to keep the door securely closed, even if someone accidentally bumps into it. They’re easy to install and can provide you with peace of mind while you’re on the road.
The bonus is that it’ll keep little ones out of the fridge even when the RV isn’t in motion.
Velcro Strips
Another option for keeping your RV refrigerator door closed is to use Velcro strips. Simply attach one side of the Velcro to the door and the other side to the refrigerator frame, basically making a “latch” from the velcro strap. This will keep the door securely closed, even on bumpy roads.
We suggest running two separate strips of Velcro, one near the top and one near the bottom of the fridge door. Make sure you apply this to the freezer, too!
Use A Fridge Fixer
Fridge Fixer is a specialty device that can help keep your RV refrigerator door closed while you’re on the road. It’s a simple device that attaches to the door and prevents it from opening. Fridge Fixer is easy to install and can be a great way to ensure that your food stays fresh and where it belongs – inside your RV fridge!
Check out this video from Random Bits RV explaining how handy the Fridge Fixer is:
Duct Tape
If all else fails, duct tape can be a temporary solution for keeping your camper refrigerator door closed. Cut a length of duct tape and apply it over the door and to the fridge frame, and you’re done!
The downside to this option is that you need to replace the duct tape nearly every time, and it’ll leave some sticky residue once you take the tape off.
But if you’re in a pinch, almost everybody (especially seasoned RV’ers) have a roll of duct tape on hand.
Wrapping Up Ways To Keep An RV Fridge Door Closed
Keeping an RV refrigerator door closed while traveling is essential to prevent food spoilage and mess. There are various methods to achieve this, including using bungee cords, velcro straps, and wooden blocks. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, and RVers should choose the one that suits their needs and preferences.
Some RVers prefer using bungee cords because they are easy to use and adjust, but are a little unsightly and can be a hassle to set up and take down after every trip. Velcro straps are another popular option because they are durable and reusable, but may leave residue on the refrigerator door.
Regardless of the method chosen, RVers should always check that the camper’s refrigerator door is securely closed before hitting the road. They should also periodically inspect the door and securing mechanism to ensure that everything is in good condition and working correctly.
Check out our other helpful RV guides while you’re here:
How to Check Ammonia Level in RV Fridge
Everything You Need To Know About RV Low Point Drain Valves
Our Guide To Some Awesome RV Outdoor Kitchen Mods