Today’s high-performance tents are relatively expensive, so you have a vested interest in keeping the American tent clean. This will make the zipper work longer and extend the life of your tent’s waterproof coating.

Six tried and accurate tips for cleaning tents

  1. After Each Use
  • After a camping trip, shake your tent to remove dirt and wipe the floor and canvas with a soft sponge and warm water.
  • Let the tent dry completely before putting it away.
  1. Take Care Of The Zippers
  • Gravel and sand can wear down the inside of a zipper slide (the metal part you slide to close and open the tent), preventing it from functioning correctly. (If the zipper no longer works, when the zipper can open behind the zipper, raise the zipper to the starting point.
  • Then use pliers to pinch one back corner of the zipper, then the other, so that the top and bottom of the zipper catch the zipper better.)
  • Keep zippers well lubricated. Use a specialized lubricant zipper, a cleaner, and lubricant available at hardware and camping stores.
  • Paraffin wax or candle wax will also help; some campers even use lip balm!
  • However, do not use petroleum-based products.
  1. A Complete Cleaning
  • Now and then, clean your tent thoroughly.
  • Install it outside and spray it lightly with a garden hose.
  • Mix a mild solution of water and a mild fabric cleaner.
  • Use a soft sponge or cloth to wipe the tent gently.
  • Rinse well, but do not soak the tent fabric.
  • Let the tent dry without exposing it to direct sunlight.
  1. To Clean Mold
  • Wash the tent with soapy water, then wipe it dry with a solution of 250 ml (1 cup) of salt, 250 ml (1 cup) of concentrated lemon juice, and 4 liters (4 quarts) of hot water.
  • Do not rinse the tent; let it air dry.
  • To help prevent mold, always store your tent in a cool, dry place, and keep it in a large cotton bag or box (rather than it carrying case) that is too large for air to circulate.
  1. Waterproof Coating That Peels
  • If the waterproof coating begins to peel due to mold or other reasons, reapply a waterproofing compound.
  • Look for the appropriate sealant at a camping store near you.
  1. To Remove Sap Or Tar
  • Try removing them with eucalyptus oil and a clean cloth.
  • If that doesn’t work, you can try a small amount of kerosene.
  • Make sure to test on a hidden part of the tent first.