Tips and information
10 tips for coated fabric
- The fabric is factory-treated at the manufacturing stage with protection against mold and rot as well as for resistance to dust and moisture. However, mold can occur as a result of external influences such as dirt, steam generated during cooking, and spores. To prevent this, be sure to provide a well-ventilated and dry storage space.
- Clean the tent regularly with lukewarm water and a cloth or soft brush.
- The use of cleaners and/or detergents is not permitted (this also includes eco and bio cleaners and/or detergents).
- Remove puddles that would remain on the canvas bottom and/or the tent roof.
- Avoid abrasions on the canvas (branches and the like).
- Do not hang wet laundry, clothing, towels, and other damp items over the tent canvas or tightening ropes.
- Do not touch the canvas with greasy hands.
- Ventilate the tent regularly.
- If possible, cook outside the tent.
- Before storing the tent and preparing it for storage, make sure it is clean and dry.
9 tips for storing a tent
Before you put away your tent:
- Inspect the tent for damage.
- Make sure the tent is clean and completely dry.
- Also, inspect the frame carefully. The frame should be complete and undamaged.
Tips for storing the tent and frame:
- Store the tent when it is clean and dry. Mold stains caused by moisture during storage (on the tent or in the room) are exceedingly difficult to remove.
- If you had to put away a wet tent after camping, unpack it immediately when you get to the storage place and let it dry.
- Store each tent in its own packaging.
- Also store the frame, accessories, and pad separately.
- The space in which you keep the tent should be ventilated.
- In the case of camping by the sea, we suggest you wash the tent thoroughly with fresh water and let it dry. Salt residues can also attract moisture in otherwise dry storage areas.
Maintenance
Is it a problem if a camping table or other similar items are placed next to the tent?
Rubbing should be prevented. The tent is made of wear-resistant fabric. To ensure the longest possible life of the tent, it is advisable to avoid possible rubbing. Leakage may also occur at the point of contact.
If the tent canvas is treated against dirt, algae, and mold, yet it is water repellent, why is it necessary to maintain the tent?
External influences such as bird droppings, spores, cooking steam, grease, hand soaps, and laundry detergents reduce the effect of preservatives in the fabric of the tent. Maintenance and stain removal are necessary to be able to enjoy your tent for as long as possible.
Can water on the tent roof or on a canopy be harmful?
Yes. A puddle of water can stretch the canvas. As a result, the canvas can become less waterproof. Water can also cause additional contamination of the canvas. Water must be removed from the tent roof.
Why can’t I hang laundry on the tent?
Soap in wet laundry dissolves chemicals that protect the tent canvas from the development of algae and mold.
Storage
Can I store a wet tent?
If your tent is wet, unpack it at a storage place before storing it in the room where it will be waiting for the next use, thus allowing it to dry completely. In case a damp tent is packed, mold develops quickly on the canvas. This can also be true if the tent is “almost” dry. The answer to this question is therefore no. Wet tent storage is not recommended. Mold on the tent and the consequences of mold are not covered by the warranty we give on our products.
Can a pitched tent remain closed if we do not use it for a long time?
Always provide at least some ventilation for the tent. This prevents mold from appearing on the fabric. Although the tent canvas is treated with anti-mold agents, steam from cooking or other dirt can allow mold to develop. Ventilation reduces the possibility of mold and fungal growth. The answer to this question is therefore no. Complete closure of the tent can accelerate the development of mold. Mold on the tent and its consequences are not covered by the warranty we give on our products.
Cleaning
Cleaning impregnated fabric
Approach to cleaning heavily soiled canvas:
- In case of heavy contamination or dirt, use only cleaners suitable for the specific area of application.
- TenCate has tested and tested cleaners: Isaclean, Deva, 123products, HG, and Ultramar.
- ALWAYS follow the instructions for use when using third-party detergents. After cleaning the coated fabric, subsequent impregnation is highly likely to be required, but it will not be permanent.
- Please use cleaners sparingly. Frequent use of these cleaners can affect the durability of the fabric over time. Contact an expert for advice before use.
- There are dry cleaners that specialise in cleaning canvas products. In case of strong contamination, we suggest that you consult with one of these cleaners about cleaning the complete tent or consult us.
Cleaning coated fabric
Approach to cleaning heavily soiled canvas:
- In case of heavy contamination or dirt, use only cleaners suitable for the specific area of application.
- TenCate has tested and tested cleaners: Isaclean, Deva, 123products, HG, and Ultramar.
- ALWAYS follow the instructions for use when using third-party detergents. After cleaning the coated fabric, subsequent impregnation is highly likely to be required, but it will not be permanent.
- Please use cleaners sparingly. Frequent use of these cleaners can affect the durability of the fabric over time. Contact an expert for advice before use.
- There are dry cleaners that specialise in cleaning canvas products. In case of strong contamination, we suggest that you consult with one of these cleaners about cleaning the complete tent or consult us.
There is mold on my tent. How can I clean it?
Mold can be removed with slightly chlorinated water (1:10 chlorine – water ratio). If this does not work, use a cleaning agent according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If the tent is made of uncoated canvas (impregnated fabric), follow the instructions for ‘Cleaning stains on impregnated fabric’. After cleaning the impregnated fabric, subsequent impregnation is highly likely to be required, but it will not be permanent.