The first step on how to clean a tent with mold is assessing mold growth. Evaluating the extent of mold contamination is essential because it will help determine what cleaner you will use. So, read this article about mold clean-up until the end to gain information on cleaning mold off tents.
Mold In Tents
Damp and dark environments are perfect for mold growth. Dirt from the earth where you’ve set up your tent may also contain mold.
Although it’s their natural environment, it won’t be impossible for the mold spores to get into your tent. Look into this article about killing airborne mold spores; maybe they can help you maintain your tent too.
How does mold grow in tents?
Mold grows in tents when they find a moist environment in your tent to feed on. Mold growth may be caused by improper drying of the tent before packing it away for winter.
It may also be due to it having dirt and grime before you store it. Another reason may be due to having leftover food in the corners of your tent.
How does mold affect the tent’s integrity?
Mold affects your tent’s integrity because it feeds on the environment it grows in. As it consumes your tent’s fabric, it becomes damaged. If the mold grows on the tent until it’s fully consumed, you will not be able to recover it anymore.
How does it affect people who use the tent?
More than the effects of mold on fabric, it also affects the people who will use the tent again. The health effects of mold are no laughing matter.
They can range from respiratory issues to allergic reactions. Hence, it is essential to remove the mold before they become too damaging.
Steps In Cleaning A Tent With Mold
Part #1. Before removing mold
Step #1. Remove dirt
Vacuum the dirt that has accumulated in your tent. We recommend you clean your tent every time you use it or at least before you store it for winter.
Step #2. Wash
Mix liquid hand soap and lukewarm water, then wipe the tent down while it’s pitched and taut. Afterward, use a dry cloth to clean the tent poles. Cleaning the tent poles protects it from corrosion.
Remember not to scrub the tent fly’s underside. Otherwise, you run the risk of ruining its polyurethane waterproof coating.
Also, if your tent’s zipper is dirty, quickly dip them in water. Then, dry the zippers off to prevent them from wearing out.
Step #3. Dry
Packing a wet tent to store it away will lead to mold growth. That is why you need to air dry it before you pack it away.
If you cannot airdry it on the camping site, then set your tent at home to dry it properly. Remember not to machine dry or wash tents because it may damage the tent’s fabric.
Part #2. Cleaning mold
Before cleaning the mold off, assess the mold growth. Look at its size and evaluate if it is manageable for you.
If it’s small, then you may only need soapy water. However, if the mold damage is extensive, then you may need Revived Pro Cleaner.
Step #1. Scrub and Dry
Use a soft brush to remove the mold from your tent. Then, use either hot soapy water or Revived Pro Cleaner to clean it. After that, rinse the tent and dry it.
Step #2. For stains
Mold tends to stain fabric if your tent has discoloration. Then, wash the affected area with non-chlorine bleach.
If you don’t trust bleach not to damage your tent’s fabric, you can also use a lemon-water solution. To make a lemon-water solution, mix a cup of salt and lemon juice into a gallon of hot water. After washing your tent with the mixture, dry it thoroughly.
That’s it; you’ve learned about cleaning tents with mold contamination. To guide you in identifying mold, here’s an article about distinguishing black mold.
Step #3. For smelly tent
Sometimes, mold odors may remain even after you’ve cleaned it. You can use MiraZyme to remove the foul scent of mold in your tent.
However, if the smell is from the broken-down polyurethane, then that is another issue altogether. You have to remove the old polyurethane coat, then apply a new coating.
Part #3. On maintaining tent to prevent mold
The best way to maintain your tent’s optimal state is to clean it properly. Before storing it, rid it of dirt and dry the whole thing properly.
Let all the moisture from the tent evaporate before packing it away. When you store it, put it in a cool and dry spot.
Do not expose your tent to a humid environment. Also, do not seal it in an airtight container. That’s everything you need to know in dealing with mold on tents.
Conclusion
Now that we’re concluding this article on how to clean a tent with mold, we hope it was enlightening. Mold can be pretty challenging to deal with. From its effects on the affected surface to the health hazards it brings, it’s not a light subject to take on.