How to Clean Your Tent: Washing, Drying & DWR Restoration
Clean tent = reliable shelter. Dirt, sweat, microbes and UV degrade fabric and DWR. Follow this step-by-step guide to wash, dry, and restore your tent’s water repellency.
1. Why Clean Your Tent
- Dust and sweat trap moisture and foster mold growth.
- Sand scratches DWR when packing up.
- Sunlight breaks down polyurethane coatings.
2. Washing Your Tent: Step by Step
- Prep: shake out sand and pitch your tent flat.
- Detergent: use Grangers Performance Wash or Nikwax Tech Wash.
- Method: gentle hand wash or machine at 30 °C, no spin cycle.
- Rinse: at least twice in cool water to remove residues.
- Dry: shade-line air dry, fully pitched, away from direct sun.
3. Drying Tips to Prevent Mold
- Hang the tent body on a clothesline or over branches.
- Flip after 2–3 hours for even drying.
- Check all seams and corners—they hold moisture longer.
4. Restoring DWR
- Spray: apply Grangers Repel Plus Eco or Nikwax TX.Direct Spray-On.
- Coverage: spray evenly from 15 cm, focusing on seams.
- Activate: tumble-dry low for 15 min at 60 °C or warm iron through cloth.
5. Gear-Care Brands at 4hz.store
Grangers Performance Wash
Nikwax Tech Wash
Grangers Repel Plus Eco
Nikwax TX.Direct Spray-On
Fibertec Down & Tent Wash Eco
Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Stuff Sack
McNett Zelon Camp Wash
Stormsure Tent Seam Sealer
6. Pre- & Post-Care Checklist
- Ensure tent is free of sand and fully dried.
- Fasten all zippers and Velcro.
- Let treated fabric rest 24 hours before use.