Luckily, we know how to give your gear the spa treatment it deserves. So sit back and learn how to wash a tent and keep it sparkling clean for all your future camping trips.
Here’s what you need to get started:
• Your dirty tent (duh)• Broom/Brush
• Mild Dish Soap
• Sponge or soft cloth
• Wash Basin
• Tent-Cleaner Product (Tech wash)
Step One: Set it Up
Set up your tent outside and remove all the loose dirt and debris with a broom or a brush. If you're feeling fancy, you can use a handheld vacuum. Just make sure to get rid of all the dirt and bugs, unless you want a surprise guest during your next camping trip.
Step Two: Spot Clean
Spot clean the nasty areas by dipping a sponge or a soft cloth into soapy water (mild dish soap + lukewarm water) and gently wipe down those grimy areas. Be sure to get the inside and the outside of the tent.
Step Three: Time for a Bath
It's time to give your tent a bath. Fill a tub or basin with cool/lukewarm water and add your choice of tent cleaner. That’s right, tent cleaner - not detergent! You didn’t think you could use any old cleaning product on your tent, did you? Hate to break it to you, but you don't want to use anything too harsh that could damage the fabric or strip the water-resistant protection layer.
Step Four: Soak It
Soak your tent. How long? Follow the directions on the cleaner bottle because every product is different. Otherwise, you might end up with a hot mess by soaking it too long.
(Note: If your tent has a funky odor or mildew is present, you may want to soak it in an enzyme cleaner.)
Step Five: Rinse it
Rinse thoroughly. Be sure to get all the funk out.
Step Six: Hang it
Hang up to dry in a cool, shaded area. Do not put it in direct sunlight. The heat combined with the cleaner will damage the material.
Step Seven: Pack It
Once completely dried, pack everything up and you’re ready for your next adventure.
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YOU DID IT!
Congrats on being a responsible adult. You deserve a tasty snack and beverage for your hard efforts.
KEEPING IT CLEAN
Unless you enjoy spending hours washing your tent, there are a few simple rules to keeping your tent clean throughout the season.
The best way to avoid a major cleaning job after camping is to do a little bit of tidying up every day. Before you hit the sack, take a few minutes to remove any dirt and debris from your tent. Shake out your sleeping bag and air out your tent by unzipping the windows and doors. It'll make a huge difference.
Three simple rules to remember: 1) Keep your dirty boots outside, 2) Don’t spill food & drinks inside, and 3) Don’t use the tent as a mud wrestling ring.
Got it? Good. Now enjoy your fresh clean tent.