6 Best Sewer Hose Storage Options For Every RV Owner
Keep your RV clean and organized with our guide to the 6 best sewer hose storage solutions. Discover durable, space-saving options for every type of traveler.
There is nothing quite like the realization that your sewer hose is dripping inside your storage bay to ruin a perfectly good travel day. Managing waste equipment is the unglamorous reality of RV life, but a dedicated storage solution keeps your gear contained, clean, and out of your living space. Investing in a proper carrier is not just about organization; it is a fundamental step in maintaining a hygienic and stress-free nomadic setup.
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Understanding RV Sewer Hose Storage Basics
The golden rule of RV waste management is simple: never store your sewer hose inside the same compartment as your drinking water hoses or food supplies. Even if you rinse your hose thoroughly, residual moisture and bacteria are inevitable, making a dedicated, exterior-mounted carrier essential.
Most RVs come with limited storage, so you need a solution that maximizes your available exterior real estate. Whether you choose a bumper-mounted tube or an under-chassis mount, the goal is to keep the hose accessible for quick setup while ensuring it remains ventilated to prevent mold growth.
Valterra Adjustable Sewer Hose Carrier
The Valterra Adjustable Carrier is the gold standard for those who frequently switch between different hose lengths. Its telescoping design allows you to expand the tube from 50 to 94 inches, meaning you won’t have to replace your storage unit if you upgrade to a longer hose setup later.
I recommend this for the weekend warrior or the full-timer who values flexibility over a permanent, fixed-size solution. It is incredibly durable and mounts easily to most RV frames, though you should verify your clearance before bolting it down. If you want a "buy it once" solution that adapts to your changing needs, this is your best bet.
Camco RhinoFLEX Sewer Hose Storage Tube
If you are already using the popular RhinoFLEX hose, this storage tube is the logical companion. It is specifically designed to accommodate the bulkier fittings of premium hoses, which often struggle to fit inside standard, narrow-diameter carriers.
This unit is ideal for RVers who prioritize ease of use and quick deployment. The hinged door allows for fast access, and the overall construction is robust enough to withstand years of road vibrations. If your current hose fittings are oversized or you’re tired of wrestling your hose into a tube that’s just a hair too small, buy this and save yourself the headache.
Lippert Components RV Bumper Storage Kit
Add convenient storage to your RV after installing SolidStep with this durable steel box. It easily installs in the vacated space and includes mounting hardware, a sealed lock, and two keys.
Many RVers overlook the hollow square bumper on the back of their rig, assuming it is just for aesthetics. The Lippert bumper storage kit turns that wasted space into a functional, sliding drawer system that keeps your hose protected from the elements.
This is a fantastic choice for those who want to keep their exterior storage bays completely clear for other gear. It keeps the hose tucked away behind a locking cap, which is a nice security feature. However, ensure your bumper is actually hollow and free of internal welds before purchasing, as some factory bumpers have obstructions that prevent these kits from sliding in.
Icon Technologies Under-Mount Hose Carrier
For those with limited bumper space or a rear-mounted spare tire, an under-mount carrier is the ultimate space-saver. Icon Technologies offers a sleek, low-profile carrier that bolts directly to the underside of the RV chassis.
This is the professional’s choice for a clean, minimalist exterior look. It keeps the weight low and centered, which is always a plus for towing stability. If you have the ground clearance to spare and want a permanent, "out of sight, out of mind" solution, this is the most sophisticated option on the market.
DIY PVC Pipe Sewer Hose Storage Systems
The DIY route is a rite of passage for many RVers, usually involving a length of 5-inch PVC pipe, two end caps, and some zip ties or mounting brackets. It is undeniably the most cost-effective way to get a custom-fit storage solution for any length of hose.
This approach is perfect for the budget-conscious RVer or those with unique mounting requirements that off-the-shelf products cannot meet. Just remember that PVC can become brittle over time when exposed to UV light, so a coat of paint is highly recommended. If you have basic tools and a bit of patience, you can build a system that rivals high-end commercial products for a fraction of the cost.
Mounting Your Sewer Hose Carrier Safely
Proper mounting is the difference between a secure storage unit and one that ends up on the side of the highway. Always use corrosion-resistant hardware, such as stainless steel bolts and nylon-insert lock nuts, to ensure that road vibration doesn’t rattle your carrier loose.
Avoid drilling into your RV’s frame unless absolutely necessary, as this can compromise structural integrity. Instead, utilize existing holes or use frame-clamping brackets whenever possible. If you are mounting to the underside, ensure the carrier is positioned away from moving parts like slide-out mechanisms or suspension components.
Choosing the Right Size for Your Hose
The most common mistake is buying a carrier based on the diameter of the hose itself, rather than the diameter of the fittings. Those bayonet-style connectors are significantly wider than the hose, and they are the primary reason people struggle to slide their gear into a carrier.
Always measure the widest part of your hose assembly before purchasing a storage tube. If you use a "wye" adapter or a clear elbow, make sure your chosen carrier has a large enough internal diameter to accommodate those specific attachments. When in doubt, go slightly larger; a loose hose is much easier to manage than one you have to force.
Maintaining Your Sewer Hose Storage Unit
Even the best storage tube can become a source of odors if you don’t keep it clean. Periodically flush the interior of your carrier with a hose and a mild disinfectant to prevent the buildup of grime and bacteria.
Check your mounting hardware every few thousand miles, especially if you travel on rough, washboard roads. A quick visual inspection of the end caps and hinges can prevent a catastrophic failure where your hose falls out during transit. A little preventative maintenance goes a long way in ensuring your gear stays safe and sanitary.
Preventing Odors and Leaks in Storage
The best way to prevent leaks is to ensure your hose is completely drained and capped before storage. Use a dedicated hose rinse wand at the dump station to clear out any remaining waste before you collapse the hose.
Ventilation is your best friend when it comes to odor control. Most commercial tubes include small vent holes; keep these clear of debris to allow air circulation. If you notice a persistent smell, consider adding a small amount of odor-neutralizing spray to the inside of the tube after you clean it.
Selecting the right sewer hose storage is about balancing convenience, durability, and the specific limitations of your RV’s architecture. By keeping your waste equipment organized and properly housed, you protect both your rig and your peace of mind. Choose the solution that fits your travel style, and you will find that even the messiest parts of RV living become a simple, routine task.
