Perhaps, you’re here because you want to know how to clean a tent. In 5 simple steps, you can definitely clean your tent; and you will know everything as you read along.
Of course, after an event, you will surely go home with many dirty gears that you have to clean before storing. By doing a proper clean-up, you can also make sure that it can last for a more extended period. It is not a tough thing to do, so you better consider spotting it clean for the next event.
In this article, we are going to have some information on the ways of cleaning your tent. We will discuss these details one by one so that you can properly follow the steps without confusion.
Without further ado, let us dive right into it!
Things That You Need To Clean A Tent
- Cold to lukewarm water
- Fragrance-free dishwashing soap
- Cleaner – any cleaner will do as long as it is designed for outdoor gears and clothing
- A non-abrasive sponge or cloth
- Large tub
Steps On How To Clean Your Tent
Wondering how to clean a tent? The following are the specific steps you have to follow to effectively clean the tent.
Step #1. Spot clean using the dish soap.
The first thing you have to do is use a cloth or a non-abrasive sponge in spotting dirt. With the help of the dishwashing soap, you can scrub off the extra-dirty areas of your gear. This step is crucial so that you are assured of the clean output.
Step #2. Prepare the large tub
After you spotted all the dirt from your tent, you can now fill the tub with a cold to lukewarm water. Then, pour in the tent-cleaner product and make sure to follow the steps which are written on the bottle directly. Do not act on your own so that you can decrease the chances of destroying your shelter equipment.
Step #3. Prep your tent
Make sure that you unzip the doors of your tent and turn it inside out for a thorough cleaning. By that, you won’t miss any spot in your tent, and you can have an excellent output.
Step #4. Soak your tent
Using your large tub, soak the tent and the rainfly into it. Again, all you have to do is follow the instructions written on the bottle of your cleaner. It is for you to acquire enough knowledge of how long you can soak your tent into the solution without the risk of damaging it.
Step #4. Rinse the tent thoroughly
After soaking, drain the tub and refill it with a new set of clean water. It would help if you did this as many times as possible to rinse away the soap. If not, your tent won’t have a clean output as you wish it to be.
Step #5. Dry it completely
Finally, set up your tent and hang it correctly in a cold and shaded area. Ensure that it is scorched before folding it so that there won’t be any foul smell stored for a long time.
How To Store Your Tent Properly
The very first thing that you have to take note of is not storing a damp tent. You should make sure that it is dry before you pack it. It is also a good thing if you put it on a loose pillowcase or a mesh bag. Though the stuff sack that comes to the gear when you purchase it is okay, it is not the best choice.
This stuff sack is only great if you use it for transport. For long time storage, you have to get housing where the tent can breathe and relax inside it.
The location of where you can store the shelter equipment needs to be planned carefully. You have store the tent in a place where it is cold and dry. It would be best if you avoided damp and hot places like the basement, attic, and the garage.
Tips On How To Take Good Care Of Tents
If you want to have the best out of your tents, all you have to do is gather information on taking good care of it. You have to maintain its condition because it will surely make its life longer than you could imagine. The following are some tips that you have to take note for the maintenance of your gear:
Choose a suitable camping site
Ensure that you have a safe location for your camping trip so that there won’t be any dangers for you and your gear.
Take care of the tent as you do the setup
Always be careful in setting up your tent. Do not be harsh on its parts because, if not, it may lead to damages.
Never store it when wet
It is frequently recommended that you have to store the tent when it is already dry. A damp tent might have some bad smell when stored over a long time and might become easy to tear apart.
Conclusion
So, how to clean a tent? You have to re-proof and to clean your tent once every few months of usage. If you make trips frequently, you must wash them immediately to avoid the dirt in seeping through the fabric.
Keep in mind that you have to do regular care in your gear. It is to ensure that the gear will last for long years ahead.