Camping tents are designed to use for a long period of time, but Mold, mildew, and also odors can damage them. It is important to clean it after every outdoor trip and also need to clean it after two months if you rarely use it. If it is attacked by mold then it is a matter of concern for campers and they want to know how to clean a tent with mold.
In this guide, we will discuss why such things happen and how you can save. Also, we will explain in detail How to remove Mildew, Mold, and also Tent odors. If you are in search of how to clean your tent then this guide is for you, stay till the end to know all about the cleaning process.
How to Remove Mold, Mildew, and Bad Smell
Pitching an outdoor tent to explore the beauty of nature is something special. But sometimes when you wind up the trip and return home there might be chances of mold or mildew. The basic reason behind this is the moisture, which creates an unhealthy environment. The moisture needs to tackle properly. It is recommended to clean your gears properly before storing them.
How to Clean a Tent with Mold
Mold and mildew are a serious concern but it is not something that you can not remove. You need to clean it properly as soon as possible to avoid any kind of damage. A moistured and wet tent if stored without properly cleanup ultimately produces such things. There are two methods to clean this mess.
Method 1
If the tend is slightly damaged due to mold or mildew then you do not need to follow the full process. In this case, the cleaning process is simple and easy. You need to follow these steps:
- Remove the mold with the help of a brush
- Use water and detergent to clean the damaged part.
- Dry for some hours
- Done
Method 2
In case your tent is badly damaged by mold, you need to follow the complete process as explained below. Following are the things you need
- Clean Cloth
- Brush
- Vacuum cleaner
- Detergent
- Revivex Pro or enzyme cleaner in case of seriously bad condition
- Clean water
Once you arrange all the above-mentioned things you can start the process.
Following are the steps you need to take in order to start the process of cleanup.
- Clean the tent with a cloth or a vacuum cleaner
- Use a brush gently to clear the mold/mildew
- Wash and clean the affected area with detergent mix water or with Revivex Pro.
- Once all is clean dry the tent for some hours
- All done.
Once you clean it from any kind of mold, mildew, or bad smell the second step is to store it properly. If you need help with how to store a tent you can read our guide about that.
How to Remove Mildew from Tent
The process of removing mildew from a damaged tent is simple and precisely the same as what we discussed in the above section. you need to follow the steps mentioned with care. Following are the things you need to consider before starting the cleaning process.
Things to do
- Always use a specific detergent made for such a purpose
- Do hand wash
- Dry completely after cleaning
Things, not todo
- Do not use a washer to clean
- Avoid any kind of bleach or stain remover
- Do not start cleaning with accessories attached such as tent poles
How to Clean a Tent that Smells
There are many reasons for the bad smell but the most common is mold/ mildew on the tent and bad smell when the floor coating is damaged. There are many products available in the market and online which work perfectly to remove the mad smell, one is Revirex pro. In case of smell from the damaged floor, It is recommended to change the floor coating as soon as possible.
Can You Wash a Tent in a Front Loading Washing Machine?
No, you can not use a washing machine to clean and wash the tent. If you use a washer then there are changes it will damage it. The waterproof feature will damage the most in this scenario. It is recommended to follow the steps mentioned above to clean.
Deodorize
The process of deodorizing after cleaning any kind of mold/mildew is important. The reason behind this step is to completely kill the germs which are still attached to the tent and at the same time remove any kind of bad smell.
The process is simple and requires a few seconds to complete. You need good quality to deodorize such as Revirex and apply on the affected part which you already cleaned. It is noted you need to mix it in clean water before applying.
How to Remove Floor Odors
The life span of PU floor coating is less. It is a waterproof coating which is to provides protection against water inside the tent. You need to change this after 9 months to 1 year or in case of damage. The waterproof feature will be lost if it damages in heavy rain.
When the PU coating became damaged it starts making a bad smell and the ultimate solution to this problem is to change this coating with a new one. You can easily do so as it is easily available in the market and also online.
FAQs
Q: Can you clean a tent with vinegar?
A: Yes, you can use vinegar to clean and remorse any kind of mold attached to a tent. The process is simple, mix ⅙ portion of vinegar with ⅚ portion of water.
Q: Can you save a moldy tent?
A: Yes, we can save a moldy tent. In order to keep it, you need to completely remove mold/mildew from the tent and store it properly.
Q: Can you use bleach to clean a tent?
A: No, you can not use bleach to clean. The chemicals present on the beach will damage the fabrics and color. It is recommended to not use bleach.
Conclusion
There are many reasons for mold/mildew and bad smell. The most common one is moisture after a camping trip. We try to explain all the detail related to this topic. We provided different methods to clean up and provide tips to avoid such conditions.
It is recommended to care for your gears. It not only safe your gears from damage but also increase their life span.
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