Agitate the water by hand. Just imagine going on an epic camping trip to the beach. Fill a tub, bucket or sink with lukewarm water. After a thorough cleaning, allow the tent to dry in order to remove the smell before storing it. The whole point of using a tent is to protect you and your fellow campers from the elements. If the track splits, you can fix it by running the zipper back over the track until it’s able to latch back together. "@context": "https://schema.org/", If you hang it up outside, the sun can help to kill the mold. ", Use this mixture to gently rub down all affected parts of the tent. When it’s time to unpack the tent for a good cleaning, you’ll probably come across some mold patches. "dateModified": "2021-07-17" The newletter sign-up system is currently down for maintenance. Brush off loose dirt, and where necessary scrape off dirt using a flat bladed knife. Wash the tent rods with a soft and dry cloth to avoid destroying the tent waterproofing. },{ We've been sharing our passion for the outdoors since 1938.Read our story, Join the REI Co-op community to get an annual dividend, access exclusives and give back. Pitching a tent in the wilderness or your backyard and feeling the rain, wind, and snow is so blooming great. If you’re dealing with a stubborn patch of mold, you can use a soft bristled brush to scrub it out. To do, you’ll want to make sure your tent is totally dry and place it in an area where it won’t pick up any dirt. These outdoor ventures are thrilling but your tent can pick up all sort of dirt, mud, grime, or mildew. If you use scented dish soap, the smell can be overwhelming, so you should choose an unscented brand. Else, you can turn to water with vinegar equation. "@type": "HowTo", You may also like: How to choose a perfect tent for camping. brushing the coating on and allowing it to soak in. Make sure you rinse the tent thoroughly to remove all of the soap … There are some basic procedures that need to be followed in order to properly clean and store the tent until the next camping trip. Make sure the soap you use won’t break down the waterproof coating. "datePublished": "2021-07-17", "description": "Signs you need a new tent", Even if you take great care of your tent, at some point it’s going to need to be replaced. Moisture will condense on it since the fabric is colder from the outside air. Once you’ve taken care of the problem areas, place the entire tent in a bath of warm soapy water. People love camping to have an adventure in nature. Spray your tent inside and out, then wipe it down with a non-abrasive sponge. This moist warm air will float upward, colliding with the sides of the tent. https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/how-to-clean-a-tent.html However, forcing a zipper can tear the fabric and can weaken the zipper itself. You can always use lukewarm water if you like. Use this mixture and wipe down all the affected areas of the tent. "name": "The Camping Geek", Learning how to clean a tent can help your tent last year after year. If necessary, … Fill a spray bottle and fill with distilled white vinegar. Storing a tent wet will only promote mildew growth. Everybody loves a journey and exploring the deep ventures of the beauties nature has to offer. Use this solution to wash out any mold or mildew spots, using a soft bristle brush when necessary. This will also help loosen tough dirt patches and preserve the fabrics of the tent itself. Cleaning a tent is an important part of maintenance. Click a star to rate. I tried as hard as I could to get it clean. },{ No, we’re not suggesting you bring cleaning supplies with you every time you go sleep in the woods, You should definitely make a habit out of cleaning up your tent as you might in your own home. Once the tent is bone-dry you can store it in a dry area and not have to worry about mold growth. If there’s pine sap on your tent, spot clean the tent with mineral oil, but be careful not to over-scrub. }, The tent must be thoroughly dried off before you place it in a carrying case or sack. One hand should be used to stabilize the track of the zipper as you pull the zipper up or down. Rinse off the tent. Failing to clean a dirty tent immediately can cause the material to degrade or can promote mold and mildew growth in a matter of just a few days. The camping tent must be stored in the attic, but before doing so, it is necessary to clean it as best as possible to avoid the risk of mold forming and unpleasant odors remaining with the danger of not being able to reuse it the following year. Cleaning up after camping. Follow the directions closely for the enzyme cleaner, especially with regard to how long to soak the tent. }, The same also applies to grime and dirt, both of which can weaken materials. Step 4: After you are done with washing your tent, you can rinse it with water to remove all the washing detergents. "@type": "ImageObject", After the tent has dried out, this is also a good opportunity to weatherproof it. } "text": "You’ve applied more weatherproof coatings but the tent still leaks" If it’s not time to head out for your next camping trip just yet, then now is the perfect time to learn how to clean a tent and get your gear ready for the season. Begin by filling up a large bucket with warm soapy water. Learn more and join us, Earn a $100 REI Gift Card when you apply, get approved and make any purchase within 60 days of card approval.Details, Mon–Fri, 5am–10pm PT Sat–Sun, 6am–9pm PT. Once the tent has dried, this can also be a good time to weatherproof it. 4. For many campers, there’s just something really satisfying about pitching a tent in the middle of the backcountry, but if you’re camping out in a tent that’s dirty, moldy, or torn, it won’t be able to provide the type of protection it’s designed to. Here are the essential steps: Supplies: Here’s what you’ll need to clean a dirty tent: If your tent has mildew, mold or foul odors, use an enzyme cleaner, such as MiraZyme™. When you pull, it can cause the pole segments to separate, or it can cause them to get caught on the fabric. Fill a spray bottle with water and dish soap. REI and the REI Co-op logo are trademarks of Recreational Equipment, Inc. 226 reviews with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars. … There are many things you can try that can help to protect your tent. It can also cause the poles to snap in the future. Even if you used the gentlest cycle, a washing machine will stretch and damage the tent. Your tent is set up on a bluff overlooking the seashore. "@type": "HowToStep", Self-adhesive tent patches are available in assorted fabrics and colours from the manufacturer and most better tents will contain a little piece of the tent’s fabric for more permanent patching. If you use your tent for the occasional short camping trip, then the tent should be cleaned every three months. Thomas J. After you’ve given the tent a good cleaning, once it has completely dried out, fold it evenly into thirds. Removing moisture from a tent before storing it will help to keep the materials waterproof and strong. When you’re camping, the zipper of the tent often receives the most mileage. Some poles will pass through a sheath on the exterior, which makes removal easier. "name": "thecampinggeek" "name": "Signs you need a new tent", Let your tent dry completely before you store your tent. { Cleaning your tent is important for the longevity of it. Here is what not to do when cleaning your canvas tent. Tips for cleaning a tent after camping 1. Rinse it out and hang it up to dry. Spray the entire tent with a 50/50 vinegar solution. Avoid using soap with a fragrance, since this can attract insects. © 2021 Recreational Equipment, Inc. All rights reserved. "@type": "Organization", I recommend storing the tent in a pillowcase, since it’s breathable and spacious and can help to prevent mold growth, while also protecting the tent from dust, dirt, and grime. Your Tent. Make sure when you open the tent or zip it back up that you use both of your hands. We recommend using lukewarm water when you are cleaning your tent. Originally published 19 July 2018 A tent is designed to keep you sheltered from the wind and will keep you dry in a rainstorm. "@type": "HowToStep", In this guide, I’ll go over how to clean and maintain your tent, and how to perform simple, but effective repairs that will allow you to get the most out of your tent, the next time you make it to the backcountry. With these tips, cleaning up after a camping trip couldn’t be easier. Wipe Off Dirt Before Washing the Tent Wipe off the tent parts with a clean cloth; use a dry cloth for wiping the tent fabric and for poles and joints use a wet cloth. Returning home from a getaway with a dusty, dirty tent is to be expected after a weekend spent in nature. Tents are usually made out of synthetic materials, plastics, metal, and come equipped with a type of waterproof coating. Drain the sink or tub and rinse off the tent and rain fly with warm, clean water. That’ll help keep your gear clean too. Use a cloth or a non-abrasive sponge to scrub the tent out gently. You’ll treat the seams first. Don’t use a high-pressure hose. "text": "The tent is no longer able to keep you cool or warm" In any case, it is preferable before disassembling it and returning home to clean the tent with a brush to eliminate dust and any mud. If your tent is not cleaned, dry and stored properly when you put it away mold and mildew can be a pesky problem. The tent’s size and the type of dirt will dictate how much. In fact, it begins from the moment you set up shop at your campsite of choice. Next, clean the tent using a solution of hot water, vinegar, and a small amount of dish soap. If you’re home from a long camping trip, the tent should be cleaned once you get back home. If a zipper doesn’t glide smoothly along it can be very frustrating. "publisher": { For many campers, there’s just something really satisfying about pitching a tent in the middle of the backcountry, but if you’re camping out in a tent that’s dirty, moldy, or torn, it won’t be able to provide the type of protection it’s designed to. For stubborn dirt, rinse the zipper with water, then brush. The tent must be dried out before you begin the mold removal process. Focus on these four categories to stay organized: your tent, your sleeping kit, your hiking gear, and your camp kitchen. "url": "https://thecampinggeek.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/tcg2.png" Also, when you get to the campsite, keep it clean with these easy tips. When you wash a tent, it must be done by hand. In most cases, this will occur when a person packs the tent before it’s had time to dry. "text": "Large rips or tears" Naturally, they tend to accumulate moisture. Pay extra attention to soiled areas but avoid overworking any waterproof areas such as the seams and the floor. Whenever you go camping, always remember to fold your tent in the morning. by gently cleaning to remove flakes; then apply a thin coat of paint-on polyurethane sealant. Prepare five quarts of hot water and add a quart of vinegar and half a teaspoon of dish soap. The sunlight helps kill mold. "@type": "HowToStep", Be sure to avoid underneath your tent on the outside as you don’t want to wear away the waterproof coating. Then, take the tent and immerse it into the water in the tub. If you pick up the tent with the poles still in place, this can make the job a lot easier. Storing the Don’t use solvents or detergents. Most of the fungus that accumulates is due to the tent fabric getting moist. Mold can begin to form when this moisture becomes trapped inside the tent. While a tent is designed to protect people against the elements, their durability will depend on how they’re maintained. When people sleep in the tent, their body produces heat, while their breath produces moisture. Take a look at the rest of the tent. Clean a Tent on the Camping Spot After you are done camping, detach all the parts and put them separately on the ground. When it’s time to take your tent down, the first thing you’ll need to do is shake it out. "@type": "HowToStep", You can also use a fan to speed up the drying process. It’s important that you clean your tent immediately following a long camping trip, or a short camping trip in which you deal with challenging weather conditions. You can also try alcohol-based products like hand sanitizer or wet wipes. "image": "https://thecampinggeek.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/canstockphoto23952051.jpg", "headline": "HOW TO CLEAN A TENT BEFORE AND AFTER A CAMPING TRIP", Remember, keeping your tent in great shape will ensure it’s able to protect you and your family from the elements, on your next camping adventure. Fill the tub with enough cool water to completely submerge the tent body and rainfly. You can likewise clean your tent which has mud or mold by utilizing a blend of lemon squeeze and salt. }, Story. But, if your home in the outdoors gets too grimy, you may start to notice ugly stains, funky odors or a zipper that doesn’t work as well as it once did. It should then be rolled tightly, in order to get rid of any pockets of air. If your tent isn’t keeping rain out like it once did, you can renew the coatings. If the waterproof coating has started to peel off, then you can apply some polyurethane. You can also use seam sealer for patching small holes in the fabric. If you’re planning to keep the tent in the same spot for several days, providing shade will also be helpful. A footprint can be a tarp or a synthetic ground cover. Turn the canopy/mesh inside out to remove dirt from pockets, gear lofts and corners. Always air dry your tent after every trip; Never store a damp or wet tent; Allow the tent to breathe in while storing; We hope this article came handy for you and your tent is all neat and clean now. Doing so will reduce any tension that’s placed on the shock cord, which will prolong the life of the tent. If there is a particularly tough stain, use a brush with soft bristles to scrub it out. You are enjoying the sea air, beach bonfires, and campground cookouts. },{ After waiting for the right soaking period, it’s time to begin washing your tent manually now. It’s also important to note that a rain fly is the most UV resistant part of a tent, so it’s also a good idea to use it on sunny days. },{ Allow the tent to stay in water for as long as directed by the tent cleaner’s instructions. Continue to divide them into segments. Lifetime membership is just $20. "@type": "Article", Chris Pottinger is a senior tent designer for REI Co-op in Kent, Wash. Why should you clean your tent before and after each camping trip? Deep Cleaning Method. "text": "A leaky roof" Of course, you can’t just toss a tent into a washing machine and a dryer. Although after one has returned from a camping trip, you will find out that you have to clean your camping tent thoroughly otherwise the mold and dirt will take over your tent fabric, and it will nearly render it useless for the next trip. "@type": "HowToStep", The tent should be folded along its longer axis. "mainEntityOfPage": { Rainfly it in the water. Consider refreshing the waterproof coatings. You should also store your food outside the tent, since keeping it inside can attract rodents, which can easily chew their way through the tent’s material. Don’t use hot water. This article will help you learn how to clean a tent with mold and keep it fresh! A tent that’s properly taken care of can last for several years. It is additionally prescribed to utilize Revive X Pro Cleaner which is known to clean tents without influencing its water repellency, together with high temp water. Tents consist of a series of fabrics that are strung up to provide a barrier between the elements and the people inside. When you’re removing these, you should push them all the way through instead of pulling them out. Tents are an essential piece of camping gear that most hikers and campers use, whether it’s to provide shelter from wind, rain, bright sunlight, or freezing temperatures. "description": "If it’s not time to head out for your next camping trip just yet, then now is the perfect time to learn how to clean a tent and get your gear ready for the season. Garbage & Dirt Throw out all the garbage and dirt by shaking them off your tent. To clean, you’ll need to prepare a mixture of vinegar, hot water, and dish soap. If your tent is starting to smell, is growing mildew or it’s just plain dirty, it’s time to give it a good cleaning. Like with most types of manmade items, moisture can present a big challenge. Remember to wash clothes with a high quality detergent to remove any mould or mildew – you can also add a little white vinegar to your wash to help with this, and to eliminate any nasty odours. "author": { Knowing how to get rid of mold from a tent will come in handy at some point. After an hour or so, use a soft brush or sponge dipped in … "logo": { If the zippers aren’t running smoothly, take a toothbrush and scrub out any sand, dirt, mud or saltwater residue that’s trapped in the zipper teeth. You can also use a bathtub with warm water and tent specific detergent to wash your tent if needed. As you might imagine, cleaning your camping tent doesn’t start after your trip has ended. At REI, we believe that a life outdoors is a life well lived. How to clean a tent with mold? When you’ve pushed the poles through, break them down beginning in the middle. When you’re setting the tent up, make sure you avoid whipping the poles around when you’re locking them into place. To prevent mold from growing on your tent, make sure you take extra time to allow it to dry before you store it away. The next step is brushing the coating on and allowing it to soak in. Cleaning a tent can cure most of these problems and it’s not too tough to do. And if you’re camping for longer than a weekend, tents can pick up all sorts of grime, mud and plant sap over the course of a few days, especially if you run into rain or snow. This can put stress on the metal or can even break the poles. Bringing in dirt and mud can corrode the tent’s material and may lead to holes in the floor. Tent fabric usually doesn’t handle UV rays well, so using the protection of trees can help prevent the material from breaking down. Always keep shoes, boots, and any dirty gear outside the tent. Cold water might not be ideal when it comes to loosening dirt and warm water will weaken the fabrics of your tent and this could damage it in the long term. This is because harsh cleaning methods can damage a canvas tent. If there are mildew or mold spots, you will still pitch the tent, but before mixing the vinegar solution spray straight vinegar on the mildew and let it sit for an hour. Wash The Tent. Leaving the tent soaking for longer than the prescribed time can risk hydrolysis, where water begins to break down waterproof polyurethane coatings. How to Clean a Tent - my tent was all dirty and stained up from camping in the mud. If you know any other tips, don’t forget to share it with us. In this guide, I’ll go over how to clean and maintain your tent, and how to perform simple, but effective repairs that will allow you to get the most out of your tent, the next time you make it to the backcountry. For this job, you’ll need to use seam sealer, which will waterproof all of the vulnerable parts of the tent where it’s applied. }, Best Cabin Tents For Families On a Budget: Reviews and Buyer’s Guide for 2021, Best Waterproof Hiking Boots for Fall and Winter: 2021 Buyer’s Guide, Best Backpack Cooler in 2021: Ultimate Buyer’s Guide, Best Camping Stoves:The Ultimate 2021 Buyer’s Guide, Best Hiking Boots for Wide Feet: Complete 2021 Buyer’s Guide, Best Air Mattress for Camping: Ultimate 2021 Buyer’s Guide, Best Cold Weather Sleeping Bags Buyer’s Guide for 2021, Best Solar Chargers for Backpacking: A Complete 2021 Buyer’s Guide, Best Outdoor Projector: Leading Products and 2021 Buyer’s Guide, Best Hiking First Aid Kit for Backcountry Preparedness: The In-Depth 2021 Buyer’s Guide, Best Backpacking Sleeping Pad Buyer’s Guide for 2021 and Top Products, Best Camping Tents: Ultimate Camping Guide for 2021, Best Backpacking Sleeping Bag for Backcountry Hikers: 2021 Buyer’s Guide and Leading Products, Best Hiking Shoes: Buyer’s Guide for 2021, Best Pop Up Canopies in 2021: Buyer’s Guide, Best Hiking Socks in 2021: Complete Buyer’s Guide, Best Camping Generators in 2021: Epic Buyer’s Guide, Best Camping Grills: 2021 Buyer’s Guide and Top Products, You’ve applied more weatherproof coatings but the tent still leaks, Foul odor that does not come out with repeat cleanings, The tent is no longer able to keep you cool or warm. Pitch your tent. To prepare for mildew and mold removal, start by placing the tent outdoors or on a dry flat surface in the basement or garage. Rolling the tent will place an equal amount of stress on all of the seams. Tent cleaning is important to prevent any damage or wear-and-tear on your tent. If the weather isn’t cooperating, then there may be a time when you have to pack up your tent when it’s still wet. "@type": "HowToStep", Additionally, a rain fly made out of polyester can handle UV rays better than one that’s made out of nylon. "text": "Foul odor that does not come out with repeat cleanings" }] Proper cleaning and storing of a tent is not difficult when you know what needs to be done. Once you get home you may need to dry it out again. },{ Be sure to rinse thoroughly with water once the sap is removed. }, { Identify all the corners where dirt... 2. Proper care and maintenance can be broken down into a few categories: Preparing a campsite is the first step to proper care. Wipe any … How helpful was this article? Don’t scrub the tent. When a tent is no longer able to do this, it’s time to throw in the towel and purchase a new one. Cleaning a Canvas Tent. Using a cleaning liquid appropriate for your tent’s fabric to clean your tent, making sure you follow the instructions closely to avoid damage. But just because the materials a tent is made out of are durable, strong, and designed to resist moisture doesn’t mean they can survive rough conditions. Everything must be shaken out, including the rain fly and the footprint. "@id": "https://thecampinggeek.com/how-to-clean-a-tent/" When you’re putting your tent together, make sure you take your time. Cleaning a canvas tent is often more about what not to do rather than what to do. Next, you need to lay down a footprint to protect the tent from the moisture in the ground. Make sure not to dilute the pure vinegar with … "@type": "WebPage", Returning home after spending a weekend in nature, it is expected for your tent to get dirty. Over time, a tent’s waterproof coatings and layers will come off, which is why they must be reapplied every three years. "step": [{ When you get home, you can bring the tent indoors and hang it up to dry in a cool area. Prepare water and soap or cleaner. If all of the above techniques are ineffective, it’s time to take more serious … "image": "https://thecampinggeek.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/canstockphoto42769993.jpg", Tents are an essential piece of camping gear that most hikers and campers use, whether it’s to provide shelter from wind, rain, bright sunlight, or freezing temperatures. "@type": "Person", The steps include: • Taking down the tent, • Cleaning of tent once home, and • Storage of tent. Always choose a level, flat spot, and be sure to remove stones and sticks that can puncture the floor of the tent. Camping gear can easily become a victim of mold and mildew. Wet Place Before pack-up, you must ensure that there is no wet place in your camp because if there is any it may harm... 3. Many of the newest models are now equipped with the latest materials and technologies that improve their comfort, lower their weight, and improve durability. This places a lot of pressure on the shock cord. For dirty, dusty, sandy or salty poles, take a rag and wipe them down. For the tent poles, store them fully assembled. If you hang it on a tree after getting up in the morning, it will let the tent … It will damage the fabric of your tent and make it fragile instead of cleaning your tent. First, you’ll need to clean the tent and remove the old polyurethane layer. The first step is to lay the tent flat and allow it to sit in the sun for several hours. Mold can grow in tents, especially if they are not properly taken care of. Add a small amount of soap. "text": "Worn areas on the wall or flooring" "@context": "https://schema.org", If necessary, use a mild, biodegradable soap and lukewarm water to wipe any tough spots off. In some cases, you may need to use some pliers. This guide and the tips I’ve included here are simple to follow and an important part of tent maintenance.