How to remove mould on a tent

How to remove mould from a tent

A reader enquired about mould growing on their tent which they discovered afterward they pulled it out of storage.

What can they do?

Mould is fungal growth, and can cause allergies in some people, plus it's no good for your tent.     Information technology's arisen because the tent was not fully dried when information technology was put abroad.  It's the number one thing you demand to do with a tent.   Dry it thoroughly.    More tent care tips can be read here, if you demand some more tips.

Whether you have a nylon or canvas tent, the problem of mould can be.

But how to set it?

We have listed some unproblematic and practical tips to help overcome this problem.

Firstly, don't put in your washing machine.

how to remove mould on tents

Y'all might think that if your tent is modest plenty, the washing machine on a gentle bicycle will suffice.
It won't.

You tin can harm the seams, the tent coating and the agitation of the machine (front loader or meridian loading) is not good for your tent.

Aforementioned applies for auto dryers.   Don't dry your tent in a dryer.

I know some labels say its OK to put in a washing machine, merely it actually isn't great, peculiarly if you do it more than once or twice.

Secondly, handwashing is needed

how to remove mould on tents

Nylon Tent

You lot demand to set up up the tent/annexe first.  It'due south going to be easier to clean when the material is pulled correctly equally designed.

In that location seems to be some variations on what to use and what non to use, but a safe start is warm h2o, non-detergent lather and a sponge.

When we say non-detergent this ways a big "no" to dishwashing liquids,  clothes detergents and pre-soaking detergents.     These all accept perfumes in them, which is something you don't want on your tent either (attracting bugs to the smell).

With this water and sponge, you wash downwardly the afflicted surface area, rinse with make clean water and and then let it dry thoroughly.

Canvass Tent

The same applies as the above, just at that place is one step earlier yous get to the washing role.

Using a strong bristle brush, yous brush off as much of the mould every bit yous can.    Vacuum off the canvas, to remove whatever of the dead spores.  Then follow the higher up steps of washing, rinsing and drying thoroughly.

If after the higher up has occurred, and the mould is still at that place, then what?

Yous can await at store purchased products, such every bit Mould Rid (available at nigh big camping stores).   It's applied to both sides of the textile with a brush, then allowed to dry so the sail is rinsed.  This may need to be repeated more than once.
Then y'all will need to re-waterproof the canvas.

Thirdly, habitation remedies:  yes or no?

how to remove mould on tents

At that place are a lot of suggestions for other ways to clean your tent, and we tin't vouch for their suitability.

1 that nosotros take read, and it'south not correct is to apply bleach. Practise not use bleach.      Information technology'south corrosive and if you accept h2o repellent coating on your detail, it will destroy that plus you lot the canvas won't last as well long with the bleach on it.

Another method we accept read is to mix one cup of common salt and i cup of concentrated lemon juice with almost 4L of hot h2o.

I have also heard of using vinegar mixed with hot water, or tablespoons each of bi-carb soda, white vinegar and methylated spirits, combined with teaspoons of eucalyptus and glycerine.

 Or mixing ane role white vinegar to x parts water - for canvas tents.      Rinse well, as the odor lingers.

In that location are quite a lot of variations on the Internet, and you do apply at your own risk (and that of the tent).   Recommended:   do a spot examination in a less-obvious place of your tent.

Lastly, removing the odor

You may accept cleaned the tent, but the olfactory property still remains.    Autonomously from leaving exterior in the lord's day with all flaps and windows open, the best method is to apply Mirazyme.     It is all natural, and you can use it on other stuff too your tent (evil-smelling shoes included).

Find a stockist via Google, as it'south non mutual in many camping stores.    Diving places seem to stock it as information technology must be practiced for diving related smells!

If in any doubtfulness about your tent care, e'er read the advice provided by the manufacturer in the commencement case.

We suggest yous read our story on how to care for your camping gear, so you don't need to refer dorsum to this story anytime soon!!