I know- you’re having a hard time due to the awful smell of your tent; so you should know how to clean a tent that smells. Please, don’t worry at all because we have a solution to that issue, and I am sure you can do it in a breeze.
For sure, it can be embarrassing if you are to host an event in your backyard; and you discovered that the large tent you would use has a bad smell.
In this article, we’ll teach how to take away the foul smell coming from your tent. Through this, you can handle a tent event without worrying about the stinky smell (maybe due to prolonged storage or some other reasons).
If you are ready to have some fruitful information, let us jump into the discussion!
Ways On How To Clean A Smelly Tent
Prevention will always be the key. Moisture is the main reason why tents develop an unwanted smell. Maybe, you stored it while it is still damp or some moist seep into the container.
I know, you haven’t prevented the stinky smell that’s why you’re here. In this part, you’ll know several effective ways to clean a tent that smells. Here are the steps on how to clean a tent that smells:
Step #1. Prevent the possibility of a stinky tent
Here are the ways on how you can prevent a stinky tent:
- You can purchase a tent footprint, but it’s optional. This thing prevents your tent from getting damaged or collecting rainwater, which can also lead to damage.
- After the rain, wipe the tent instead of waiting for it to dry on its own. Because if you are to pack it while being wet, then that is the time when the smelly problem will arise. That is why you should always keep it dry.
- Make sure to clean your tent every after use. Through this, you can be sure that no stain or moisture can make your tent stinky over time.
- You can also spot clean the tent, and when you are sure that there are none left, you can now correctly store it.
Step #2. Do not wash your tent using a washing machine
You should take note of this step though it is already common knowledge. But as a reminder, do not try to wash your tent using a washing machine. Tents are not designed for tumbling and spinning; washing these through a washing machine can cause them to tear up.
Step #3. Use soap when cleaning and go all natural
There are two options you can use when cleaning your tent after an event- either a mild soap or a dishwashing soap. However, based on experience, experts suggest that the use of dishwashing soap is more effective.
If it is possible to have a mild fragrance soap, then go for it. It is because fragrant things attract bugs and mosquitoes, and that is something that you should avoid.
You can also opt for a non-chemical solution (you can always DIY). A solution can be made; all you need is vinegar, lemon juice, and water. This method is one of the preferred by many because it is cost-effective and safe.
Cleaning a tent that smells using vinegar
- Suppose you have a large tent but a gallon of vinegar. Make an equal mix of water and vinegar using a container like a spray bottle.
- You can have added lemon juice to the solution. It will offset the smell of the vinegar.
- Pitch the tent on the outside or in the yard. Spray the dirty area and let it dry in the sun.
- Please do not use bleach, for it will indeed weaken the tent’s fabric.
Step #4. Handwashing
If your tent has been filthy, you might need to scrub it all off. A non-abrasive sponge is recommended for this method so that it won’t cause harm to your tent.
Hand wash the outer fabric thoroughly and avoid scrubbing the underside. Do not scrub too hard because it can end up destroying the whole tent.
Keep in mind that a tent is much easier to clean if you pitch it. While the chemical solutions are the usual mindset, I would use home remedies like mild soaps and dishwashing soaps.
Step #5. Store your tent properly
After a tent event, give your tent a good wash and let it dry under the sun. If the weather is not suitable for sun-drying, then you can put it up in the garage for about 24 hours by letting the air dry it.
Once you feel that it is completely dried up, pack it in a plastic container. You also have to be sure that the place where you are going to store it is not prone to moisture 9such as the basement, attic, or the outside shed).
It is also a good idea to put baking soda bags, for they can control the moisture buildup inside.
Conclusion
We hope that we provided you enough strategies on how to clean a tent that smells. Remember to check the label to have decreased chances of ruining your tent due to the improper use of chemicals.
Take note prevention is superior in all of these methods. Good luck with your cleaning operation, and we hope you have more tent events for the upcoming months or years!