Caring for Waterproof Tent Fabric

Tents are usually made from technical fabric with a water-repellent coating, commonly polyurethane or silicone. That coating can slowly lose effect if the tent is cared for the wrong way.

Skip the washing machine#

The most common mistake is washing a tent in a machine or with harsh powder detergent. Those chemicals can strip the protective coating, so fabric that once shed water starts to soak through.

How to clean it#

• Spread the tent out in an open area.
• Wipe dirty spots with a damp sponge or soft microfibre cloth.
• For stubborn stains, use a neutral soap made for outdoor gear.

How to dry it#

Avoid strong direct sun, since UV can make the fabric brittle and easy to tear. Air it in the shade until completely dry to keep mould from growing.

For tent makers#

Include a clear care label on the finished product so users know how to look after it from day one.

For tent and waterproof gear materials, see Waterproof Fabric.