There are a few simple steps on how to wash a tent. The most important thing you should remember is that you should do it using your hands. Also, you have to take note that you can’t do it just anytime, you have to know when is the right time to do so.
Undoubtedly, dirt and grimes are the enemies of a durable tent. With cleaning, you can make your tent last for many years, and it will have a more extended period of offering you service. Washing your tent does not mean that you can toss it in the washing machine, though. That action will surely damage the coatings and seams.
In this article, we will give you some advice on how to wash your tent correctly. We would also discuss the time when you should do the cleaning for your gear. Without further ado, let’s get on with it!
When To Wash A Tent?
It is an easy task packing your gears after an event, or maybe after you use it as a carport or storage. It would be best if you kept in mind that the longevity of its service depends on how you take care of your equipment, especially the tent. With the dirt, sand, and mud that weakens your gear’s fabric, it is better that you wash it out every after use or when required.
These are the times when you should wash your tent:
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If it’s visually dirty
If only a little dust is seen in your tent, it does not warrant you to wash it immediately. But if you notice that it is full of dirt and mud, which is undoubtedly the time that you do the cleanup. Do not let the dirt build on your gear because you will have a hard time scrubbing it off.
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If the fabric gets wet quickly and the water does not bead up
Grimes is the number one reason that the DWR (Durable Water Repellent) degrades through time, and it also weakens the waterproof coatings. By removing the dirt and revitalizing the tent, you can prevent these issues from happening.
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If you camped out by the ocean
By the sea, there would be a lot of sand that will be glued to your tent. The salty air in the ocean contributes to the corrosion of zippers that will lead to breakage. If you decide to do a rinse, it would be fine, but the better way you should do is clean it properly.
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After prolonged exposure to campfire smoke
The smoke from the fire can build up into layers of microparticles. The best thing that you should do is to set the tent well and remove them.
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After extended exposure to UV rays
Due to the UV rays, the dirt that is stuck on your tent will be baked. Since these gears are typically used outdoors, you cannot escape this, but keeping your tent washed always will prolong its life.
Steps On How To Wash Your Tent
Wondering how to wash a tent? Well, the essential thing you have to keep in mind is not washing your tent using a washing machine. Your hand should wash it in a large tub and do a gentle cleaning. This action will allow you to spot clean your gear that is caught up in the pockets and crevices.
Here are the following steps that you have to follow for effective washing of your tent:
Step #1. Filling the tub with water
The first thing you must do is get a large tub and fill it with cold water. Submerge the tent entirely on the water, including the rainfly.
Step #2. Putting soap
Put only a small amount of soap. If you have a giant tent, you have to add a little more because the soap depends on your equipment’s size.
Step #3. Agitating the water
Next, agitate the water using your hand. Turn the mesh inside out so that you can remove the dirt that is hiding on the crevices, gear loft, and corners.
Step #4. Kneading the tent
Knead the tent by pushing it down and swishing for about 5 minutes of duration—this method ensures that the water will reach the nooks and the crannies of the gear.
Step #5. Soaking the tent
Then, let the tent sink for 20 minutes and, after that time, repeat the agitation.
Step #6. Replacing water if the water looks dirty
Lift the tent and take a good look at the water. If it is brown, drain and squeeze the tent to remove the water out of it. Do not try to twist your gear because that action may cause damage. Refill your tub with fresh and clean water then again, repeat the process.
Step #7. Hanging the tent
If you see that the water is already clear after a few rinsing times, it is time you hang clean your tent. Try to avoid any sharp objects when you are drying it so that there won’t be any possibility of tearing. Additionally, do not hang the tent by clipping its corners because it will put stress.
Step #8. Drying the tent
Finally, be sure to check thoroughly if the tent is dry in all parts and corners before storing it.
Conclusion
Taking good care of your gear would mean that you can have a long time using it. So, how to wash a tent? Do not try to wash it using a washing machine because it can peel off the waterproof coatings. The best thing that you can do is to follow the proper handwashing tips that we discussed above.
Good luck with washing your tent, and we hope you had a lot of information gathered from this article.