How to Look After Your Tent
Taking care of your tent is essential to ensure it lasts through the many seasons of camping. For campers, the longevity and performance of your tent are crucial to a successful and enjoyable camping experience. Proper maintenance isn’t just about keeping your tent clean, it’s about preserving the overall functionality, durability, and weatherproofing.
Essential Care and Maintenance of Your Tent
Before You GO
Before heading out on your next adventure, make some time to practice pitching with your new gear. You may even find it useful to practice pitching in a variety of conditions. Pitching your tent before your trip will ensure you have everything you need and that you’re prepared for any weather or terrain you may not be familiar with.
Extending the Life of Your Tent
The following tips and products are essential for increasing the life of your tent, or even aiding with repair if the worst is to happen on your next trip.
Tent Footprint
A tent footprint is a groundsheet that has been specifically designed to the cut of your tent. It is a protective layer that sits beneath your tent, providing an extra barrier between the tent floor and the ground. It helps by preventing damage from the rough gravel, moisture, or any type of abrasion while adding and extra layer of insulation and keeping the interior of your tent dry.
If your tent doesn't have a specific footprint available, a standard footprint can be used but will need to be folded/cut to the shape of your tent.
Shop All Tent FootprintsTent Repair Kit
If your tent encounters any wear or tear, then a tent repair kit is your solution. It comes with a selection of tools designed to help you repair minor damage to your tent while you’re out in the ‘field’.
Shop Tent Repair Kits
Tent Cleaning and Proofing
Proper tent cleaning and proofing are essential for maintaining the durability, waterproofing, and protection against mold and UV damage, ensuring your tent remains reliable and lives a long life for all outdoor adventures!
Cleaning Your Tent
– Set up or lay out your tent in a clean and dry area.
– Attempt to shake off any debris or dirt.
– Use a tent cleaning kit to clean off the left over dirt on your tent.
– Rinse the tent to remove any leftover soap.
– Hang the tent somewhere ventilated to allow your tent to dry.
Proofing Your Tent
– Waterproof your tent using Nikwax.
– Apply evenly on the outer fabric, seams and exposed areas.
– Seam Sealing is recommended when proofing your tent.
– Ensure your tent is fully dry before packing away.
Check out this video to help guide you on reproofing your tent
Packing Away Your Tent
Properly packing away your tent is crucial to maintaining its condition and life. Always ensure your tent is clean, completely dry and carefully folded before storing. Packing your tent away properly will help to prevent mold, mildew and unpleasant odours the next time you unpack it.