Cleaning and Deodorizing Your Camping Gear to Make It Last

Tents

A good tent can last a lifetime. But if stored incorrectly, mildew and mold can damage the urethane coating and leave a musty smell. Be sure to dry it and inspect it after each use.

Suggested tools and materials:

• Vacuum;
• Zipper lubricant;
• Waterproof sealant (for repairs):
• Odor eliminator.

Before stowing, separate the tent and rainfly and hang them until completely dry. If you’ve been camping in a sandy or gritty place, clean the zippers using a canister vacuum with a brush, then apply a zipper lubricant. Tend to small tears with a waterproof sealant like Gear Aid Seam Grip + WP, applying it on the same side of the fabric as the taped seams.

If your tent smells musty, treat it with an odor eliminator like this one from Revivex. “Do not store it in the supplied stuff sack,” says Barry Robertson, a gear expert at Sea to Summit. Also avoid tightly rolling it or putting it in a sealed tote. Instead, fold it loosely and put it on a well-ventilated shelf or in a mesh bag.