Maintaining Your Tent
Even when things are made for the outdoors, they are
not completely weather proof. Everything made by man will succumb to all the
little attacks of nature eventually. Water, air, bacteria and insect attacks
all gradually wear down the toughest materials. This definitely applies to
mountaineering equipment, and most especially the tent that you use. Since
this is your primary protection against the elements, it only makes sense
that it is the hardest hit and must therefore be maintained regularly. Let’s
see what you can do.
Before leaving camp, one of the first things you do is
pack up the tent. This is where it can all go downhill for your home away
from home. If you pack a wet tent, all kinds of moulds and mildew can form,
and in the end, destroy your tent. So before anything else, wipe your tent
dry before packing. Despite this however, some nasty moulds can still
appear. This is why it is important to have regular cleaning sessions on hot
sunny days. On one of these sessions, search the tent for any unwanted fungi
and such. Remember, these living organisms must be exterminated first before
using any cleanser. Some diluted
When all unwanted organisms are taken care of, let the
cleansing begin. Be sure that a strong detergent or cleanser is not used, as
this may also cause damage to the tent fabric. There are products available
in the market made specifically for this purpose. Tent specific cleansers
will make sure the weather proofing on the fabric will last longer. Just
follow the directions on your product, and again, rinse with cold water.
Now this may sound too much, there is a coating after
all, but re-proofing will still be needed. Even the sturdiest, most advanced
waterproofing treatments are not permanent. Eventually, Mother Nature will
have her way with your unsuspecting shelter. To prevent that, check if there
are any leaks during cleaning. A tent re-proofer will then need to be
applied to the area. Sometimes however, the whole tent will need to go
through the extra treatment. Your product will also determine if application
will be done on dry or wet fabric. Always read instructions, as not all
products are the same.
The tent’s textile material, though, is not the only
thing that needs a check up now then. Damage can happen on all parts of the
tent. If guy lines are frayed and thinning, they should be replaced. Pegs
and poles should also be checked for bends and cracks. Too much damage to
the structure and parts that hold the tent down, and you might find your
tent in the trees on a particularly windy day. Replace damaged parts before
that can even happen. Zippers can also be lubricated to ensure a
non-irritable camping experience. Those stuck zippers can be a nightmare. To
be even more secure during your trip, bring some seam sealant and
re-proofing aerosol sprays. It pays to be prepared for when the next leak
attacks.
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