What is DampRid?
DampRid is a trusted brand known for its moisture-absorbing products designed to reduce excess humidity. Founded in 1948 by Ernest S. B. Jenkins, the company offers moisture control solutions for homes, cars, and boats. DampRid's products, including their popular DampRid bags and buckets, act as a secondary preventative measure against mold, mildew, and moisture-related damage by lowering relative humidity in enclosed spaces.
DampRid moisture control helps maintain optimal humidity levels by using calcium chloride crystals that pull excess vapor from the air. This process prevents damp air accumulation that causes stale, musty odors, keeping cabin spaces and storage compartments fresher and drier.
DampRid Moisture Absorbers: Best Practices for Boats
- Effective Moisture Control with DampRid Bags and Refills: DampRid's moisture absorbers, such as the DampRid bag and DampRid refill, use calcium chloride to absorb excess moisture from the air. These products help manage humidity in enclosed areas like lockers, head compartments, or cabins. Always ensure hanging bags are secured over a sink, basin, or non-spill plastic bin to catch any potential leaks during boat motion.
- DampRid Buckets & Spill Containment: For larger spaces like salons or staterooms during winter storage, DampRid offers moisture absorber buckets. Because calcium chloride turns into a corrosive salt brine as it absorbs water, buckets must be placed inside a secondary leak-proof plastic tote and secured against tipping or vessel movement to protect fiberglass, wood, and metal components.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is DampRid and how does it work?
DampRid is a desiccant product that uses calcium chloride crystals to pull excess moisture from the air. As moisture is absorbed, the crystals dissolve and collect as a liquid brine solution in the bottom of the container or bag, helping lower humidity and prevent musty odors.
Where should I use DampRid moisture absorbers on a boat?
DampRid products are well-suited for enclosed spaces such as cabins, head compartments, engine rooms (when cold), and storage lockers. On boats, always place buckets or hanging bags inside a secondary non-spill plastic basin or over a sink to prevent liquid brine from spilling due to vessel movement.
How long do DampRid products last?
Lifespan depends on ambient temperature, airflow, and humidity levels. In high-humidity climates or wet seasons, the crystals will dissolve more quickly. Replace the product or pour out the liquid and add refills once the solid crystals have completely dissolved.
Can DampRid help prevent mold and mildew on boats?
Yes. By lowering relative humidity below the threshold needed for mold growth, DampRid helps create an environment that resists new mold and mildew. However, it will not kill or clean existing mold spores and should be paired with proper cabin ventilation.
Is DampRid safe to use on boats during seasonal winter storage?
Yes, provided proper spill protection is used. Because the collected liquid is a highly corrosive calcium chloride brine, containers should be secured in secondary catch basins so they cannot tip over or overflow into the bilge, teak, or near wiring during extended storage.