Outdoor Blog

How to Clean Your Tent (Plus 5 Tent Care Tips)

Published

3 years ago

April 17, 2021

It’s a good idea to clean your tent every time your return from a camping or backpacking trip. You’ll also want to give it a quick clean when you first take it home and if you’re taking it out of storage after a lot of time has passed. Thankfully, tents are fairly easy to clean and maintain.

Plus, putting in the time to take good care of your tent will help prevent wear and tear. In fact, proper care and cleaning of outdoor gear like tents as well as your sleeping bags, stuff sacks, and hiking boots, can help them last longer and will help keep you safe and dry on your next camping trip. After all, a clean tent is going to a lot more comfortable than a dirty one! Especially considering that common tent care issues include things like mildew, insect damage, and leakage.

What Do I Need to Clean My Tent?

Okay, so you’ve just returned from a beautiful backpacking trip and you’re ready to clean your tent and put it away in storage. What cleaners and tools will you need to complete the job? It depends a bit on deep of a clean you’re going for. For a regular clean, you only need dish soap, gear cleaner, which we’ll cover in a moment, a cloth or sponge, and a tub.

A toothbrush can also be helpful for cleaning out the zippers if they’re sandy or gritty and need a bit of extra scrubbing. Gear cleaner, like Nikwax’s Tech Wash, is designed specifically for outdoor gear like tents, and it can be used both to spot clean and in a washing machine. It preserves the waterproofing of outdoor gear.

If you have an especially dirty tent, or if you notice a bad smell that doesn’t seem to go away, you may need an enzyme cleaner to remove mold, mildew, and any other organic material. Mineral oil can also be useful for removing pine sap, but both of these cleaners can be more abrasive than mild dish soap or Nikwax, so be careful in using them on your tent.

When you first purchase a new tent, it’s a good idea to inspect it, give it a basic cleaning, seal the seams, and perform any other waterproofing it might need. We’ll cover seam sealing and waterproofing in the 5 Tent Care Tips below.

Friends sitting near tent in woodland clearing,

Always hand clean your tent…washing machines/dryers will damage the material.

Tent Cleaning from Top to Bottom

To start, you’ll want to set your tent up and look over the entire tent for dirty areas. It’s best to do this on a warm, sunny day and in an area that you don’t mind getting a bit wet. You’re going to spot clean the tent first and then either rinse it in a tub or bathtub.

For a deeper clean, you can soak the entire tent in cold to lukewarm water with a gear cleaner. Pay close attention to the gear cleaner instructions, however, and don’t over-soak your tent. This can damage the tent’s waterproof coating and seams.

You also want to avoid using bleach and never put your tent in the washing machine or dryer. Warm water and dish soap will generally do the trick. One of the best ways to wear down your tent quickly is to put it through the washer and dryer with regular detergent.

Instead, you should just spot clean wherever it’s dirty with the dish soap, soak it with the gear cleaner if needed, and then rinse the tent thoroughly with clean, cold water. You may need to do this multiple times to get all the soapy water out from your tent and rainfly.

The best way to dry your tent is to let it air dry completely. Again, this is why it’s best to clean your tent on a nice, sunny day! That said, you should dry your tent in a shady area to protect it from UV damage. Make sure the tent is completely dry before you store it.

Pay special attention to the seams and other thicker areas to prevent mold and mildew from growing. Dampness can also cause color transfers to occur between darker and lighter parts of the tent. This won’t damage the tent’s performance, but it’s one more reason to avoid putting your tent away damp.

How to Clean Tent Poles, Zippers, and More

Once you’ve cleaned the bulk of the tent, it’s time to pay some special attention to key areas of the tent. Zippers and other metal components can be rinsed with water and then wiped down with a dry cloth. Again, a toothbrush can be a good way to remove sand or any other stuck-in grit if you need to. You want to avoid using too much water or soap on zippers because it can cause them to rust.

In fact, for deeper cleaning, or if you’re using waterproofing spray or sealant on your tent, you may want to tape up the zippers with painter’s tape. This way they won’t get wet. Regardless, you should avoid zippers and other metal pieces when waterproofing or sealing your tent and make sure to wipe them dry if they do get wet.

Tent poles can similarly be wiped down with a dry, non-abrasive cloth. With all metal parts, make sure you dry them thoroughly before putting your tent away. This is especially important if your tent has been exposed to salt spray, which can corrode metal very quickly.

Finally, you’ll want to spend some extra time inspecting the rainfly and consider spraying tit with a DWR (durable water repellent) even if you’re not going to waterproof the rest of the tent. There are more instructions on how to keep up the strength of your tent’s protective coating below and the rainfly is the part of your tent most likely to need this kind of upkeep.

5 Bonus Tent Care Tips

You can also take steps to prevent grime from building up in the first place. Don’t wear shoes in the tent and consider placing a mat or small rug inside the entrance to catch sand, dirt, and other detritus. You can also sweep out your tent daily while it’s in use.

And you should make sure to wipe up any spills immediately. Finally, don’t keep food or drinks in your tent. Instead, you should use a bear bag, bear canister, or another storage container made specifically to keep animals out of your f and out of your tent!

Cleaning your tent after each use and making sure it’s completely dry before you put it back in storage are important first steps in tent care. But there’s much more you can do to keep your tent in great shape. When you first get your new tent home, you should take some time to reinforce some of the seams, and possibly do some additional waterproofing as well.

1. Sealing Your Seams

One way to improve the performance of your tent, especially in wet weather, is to seal the seams. There are a few different kinds of seam sealants you can use, include tape, glue, and sprays. The most important decision to make when sealing seams in your tent, however, is to figure out which seams you need to seal.

Some of the seams on your tent, such as the roof seams and main seams, will likely be sealed well right from the factory. Older tents may need sealant applied to reinforce even factory-sealed seams, however. The seams you’ll want to pay special attention to seams on the tent floor, where there might be contact with the ground. Then, you should also seal any reinforcement or rain flap seams that aren’t sealed already.

Once you have your tent set up and have examined the seams, you can start applying a seam sealer. If you’re refurbishing an old tent, make sure to clean the seams first. You can use a small amount of rubbing alcohol to spot clean the seams. Be sure to remove any damaged or peeling seam taping.

Only apply seam sealer in a well-ventilated area. The sealant will need to dry for 12 to 24 hours. Consult the instructions on the seam sealer you’re using for the specific drying time. Some sealants, like Kenyon Seam Sealer 3, come with an applicator while others, like Gear Aid’s Seam Grip, use a brush. Regardless, make sure not to over-apply sealant, applying multiple thin layers rather than a single thick one.

2. Refurbishing Your Tent’s Waterproofing

Another way to improve your tent’s performance is to refresh the waterproofing on your tent’s fabric. If you notice that water isn’t beading on any part of the walls, floor, or roof of your tent, it may be time to reapply some waterproofing. The waterproof coating on your tent, unfortunately, can break down over time. Eventually, this will lead to leaking, as well as a further breakdown of the tent material.

Thankfully, there’s a quick fix for reinvigorating your tent’s waterproof coating. Durable water repellent, or DWR, can be applied to help keep you and your tent dry. Gear Aid’s Revivex is one of the most popular durable waterproofing solutions.

You can buy a spray or wash-in repellent that revives the waterproof function of outdoor gear. This stuff is great for keeping your tent fully dry, but you can also use it on jackets, sleeping bags, and more. Pay attention to the specific instructions given for each product, and make sure you’re using the right water repellent for your gear.

You can even seal small holes or tears in your tent using tenacious tape. This super-strong tape will create a waterproof seal over small holes so you don’t have to replace a tent. That said, you should be careful whenever setting up camp to protect the floor of your tent. Avoid stones and other sharp objects that could rip your tent, and use a groundsheet to protect your tent’s floor from the elements.

3. Preventing UV Damage

UV damage is one more way in which the elements can break down the materials of your tent. The most noticeable effect of UV damage is fading color, but there’s a lot more to be worried about it when it comes to damage from direct sunlight. UV rays can actually damage the fabric your tent is made of, reducing its strength and increasing the likelihood of water retention.

There’s an obvious way to reduce the amount of UV damage your tent takes: set it up out of direct sunlight where possible. But you can also use specially-made gear washes to improve the UV protection of your tent. If you notice your tent’s fabric has lost a lot of its color, or it seems to be retaining water and losing some of its repellence, it may be time to boost your UV protection with a solar gear wash.

Moisture retention and leakage are some signs your tent needs to be replaced.

4. When To Buy A New Tent

At some point, however, you are going to have to replace your tent. Even the best-made tents can only go for about five years of frequent use. Of course, just how long your tent will last depends on how often you use it, what conditions you’re using it in, and the materials your tent is made of. One big indication that it’s time to pick out a new home away from home is when your tent starts retaining moisture.

If you can’t get your tent to fully dry, notice recurring dampness, or even excessive seepage or leaking during use, consider replacing your tent. Try refreshing the waterproofing first, as well as resealing any seams that have opened up. But if this fails, you may need to check out some of the new tents available on the market. You should also be on the lookout for stretching or sagging material.

If the tent poles no stretch the fabric tightly into shape, your tent will have trouble repelling rain and may be on its way to breaking down even more. If the fabric seems to have lost its shape, it’s losing its strength as well. Finally, some holes are too large to patch effectively. If you have holes in our tent larger than an inch in diameter, or many small holes, you should consider buying a new tent.

5. Proper Tent Storage

Once your tent is fully clean and dry, it’s time to put it away. You may be surprised at how much of an impact proper tent storage can make on the longevity of your tent, but improper storage is one of the quickest ways to mess up a nice, new tent.

You want to store your tent in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. This will protect the tent from UV radiation, water, and more. All of these elements can weaken the fabric of your tent if you don’t block them out. Roll your tent loosely to allow the fabric to breathe and consider covering it with a clean cloth to prevent dust from collective on the surface.

If you have room to store the tent poles fully assembled, do it. This can help reduce tension on the joints and increase the life of your tent poles. Lay tent poles fully flat for storage and avoid stacking anything on top of them. It’s best to leave your tent outside of its carrying bag for long-term storage as this can prevent the fabric from breathing and even hold in moisture.

The Golden Rule of Tent Cleaning

Sometimes it’s the simplest things that matter most and tent cleaning is no different. As has probably become clear throughout this tent cleaning guide, your biggest enemy when it comes to tent maintenance is mold and mildew. Dampness will try to get into your tent’s fabric all the time. In storage, when you’re using it, and whenever you clean it with water. So, keep this golden rule in mind to avoid a mildewy mess: never put your tent away wet!

Some people even recommend re-applying a DWR (durable water repellent) every time you clean your tent. Whatever you decide to do, it’s clear you should take waterproofing your tent seriously and make sure to tackle any signs of mold or mildew early. After all, no one wants to end up in a wet or moldy tent after a long day of backpacking.

Bonus tip: Check out this helpful video on how to repair a messed up zipper on your tent, sleeping bag, or anything else!

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

1 month ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.

Outdoor Blog

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Sam Brooks

The wilderness beckons with the promise of adventure, but any seasoned hunter knows that what you wear can make or break your experience. Gone are the days when outdoor apparel was purely utilitarian. Today, fashion and functionality blend seamlessly to create gear that’s not only practical but also stylish. From the latest camouflage patterns to weather-resistant fabrics, let’s explore the evolution of outdoor apparel and how it’s revolutionizing the way we approach the great outdoors.

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Camouflage has come a long way from the simple green and brown patterns of yesteryear. Modern camouflage designs are now a blend of advanced science and cutting-edge style. These patterns aren’t just about blending into the background; they’re about creating an optical illusion that makes the wearer nearly invisible to wildlife.

Contemporary camo gear incorporates a variety of colors and textures to match different environments, from dense forests to arid deserts. This evolution in design is as much about aesthetics as it is about effectiveness, allowing hunters to move through their chosen terrain with confidence and stealth.

The shift towards more sophisticated camouflage patterns also reflects a broader trend in outdoor apparel: the desire for gear that looks good and performs even better. Hunters today want apparel that makes a statement while still providing the ultimate in concealment. Whether it’s a jacket with a sleek, modern design or pants that offer the perfect balance of comfort and camouflage, today’s outdoor apparel combines fashion and function like never before.

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Layering is a critical concept in outdoor apparel, offering both practical and aesthetic benefits. Modern layering systems are designed to regulate body temperature and provide protection from the elements. However, they also offer a chance to showcase personal style. Successful layering starts with choosing pieces that work well together both functionally and visually.

Base layers, for instance, have evolved from simple thermal wear to stylish garments that can be worn on their own or as part of a layered ensemble. These pieces are often made from advanced fabrics that provide warmth without bulk, ensuring that hunters can stay comfortable and mobile. Mid-layers add another dimension of style and functionality, offering insulation while allowing for breathability. Softshell jackets and vests come in many different colors and designs, making it easy to find pieces that suit individual tastes.

Layering can also help you catch different kinds of animals. For instance, when you’re looking for turkey hunting tips, it’s important to look at the best kinds of layering to stay incognito and catch the best birds. Choosing the right layers can make a significant difference in staying comfortable and concealed during long hours in the field.

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

Footwear is another area where outdoor apparel has seen significant evolution. In the past, hunting boots were purely functional, but, today, they still offer these essential qualities but have also become a fashion statement. Modern hunting boots come in a variety of styles, from traditional leather to contemporary synthetic materials, and are available in a range of colors and designs.

The advancements in footwear technology have been remarkable. Today’s hunting boots are designed to be lightweight yet durable, with features like waterproof membranes, breathable linings, and advanced traction systems. These innovations ensure that hunters can move comfortably and safely through any environment. But it’s not just about functionality; the aesthetic appeal of modern hunting boots is undeniable. Many boots are designed with sleek, stylish lines that make them suitable for wearing both in the field and in more casual settings.

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

When it comes to hunting, high-performance gear is a game-changer. This is the section where outdoor apparel truly shines, combining cutting-edge technology with sleek design to create products that offer unmatched performance. Performance hunting gear includes everything from moisture-wicking base layers to high-tech outerwear designed to withstand the harshest conditions.

Today’s high-performance apparel utilizes advanced materials that are both lightweight and durable. Fabrics like Gore-Tex and other proprietary blends offer superior protection against wind and water while maintaining breathability. These materials help regulate body temperature, keeping hunters comfortable in a wide range of environments. In addition to these practical benefits, high-performance gear often features ergonomic designs that allow for a full range of motion, ensuring that hunters can move freely and easily.

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter

Sustainability has become an increasingly important consideration in the world of outdoor apparel. Hunters who are passionate about preserving the wilderness they love to explore are now seeking out eco-friendly clothing options that minimize environmental impact. Eco-friendly outdoor apparel is made from sustainable materials such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and biodegradable fibers. These materials offer the same performance benefits as traditional fabrics but with a lower environmental footprint.

Outdoor Blog

The Role of Camouflage in Wildlife Photography and Hunting

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Caleb Cole

Camouflage plays a vital role in the worlds of wildlife photography and hunting, serving as an indispensable tool for enthusiasts and professionals alike. It’s not just about blending into the environment; it’s about becoming a part of it. Camouflage allows for closer interactions with wildlife, ensuring more successful hunts and breathtaking photographs. Here, we explore the key roles camouflage plays in these outdoor activities.

Blending In: The Art of Disappearing

One of the primary roles of camouflage is to help the wearer blend seamlessly into their surroundings. This art of disappearing is crucial whether you’re capturing a stunning image of a deer at dawn or patiently waiting for your prey during hunting season. In wildlife photography, the goal is to get as close as possible without disturbing the natural behavior of the animals. Camouflage clothing, face paint, and even equipment coverings can make the difference between a once-in-a-lifetime shot and a missed opportunity.

For hunters, blending into the environment increases the chances of a successful hunt. Animals have keen senses, and the slightest hint of an unnatural shape or color can send them running. Camouflage gear allows hunters to become virtually invisible. This skill of blending in isn’t just about wearing the right colors; it’s about understanding the terrain, the light, and how to move with stealth.

Reducing the Human Scent and Sound

Another critical aspect of camouflage in both photography and hunting is the reduction of human scent and sound. Animals naturally use their sense of smell and hearing to detect potential threats. Successful hunting trips often hinge on the ability to minimize human presence in these sensory fields. Specially designed camouflage clothing can help mask human odors, making it harder for animals to pick up on your scent.

Similarly, wildlife photographers need to consider their scent and sound output. Even the most visually inconspicuous photographer can ruin a perfect shot if their scent or a stray noise alerts the animals. Using scent-masking sprays and moving with extreme caution are part of the camouflage strategy, ensuring that photographers can get closer to their subjects without causing alarm.

Enhancing Patience and Stealth

Patience and stealth are virtues that every hunter and wildlife photographer must possess, and camouflage gear enhances these qualities. When you’re properly camouflaged, you can afford to be more patient, knowing that you are less likely to be detected. This confidence allows for longer waiting periods in prime locations, increasing the chances of capturing that perfect shot or making a successful kill.

For wildlife photographers, the need for patience is paramount. Animals won’t always show up when you want them to, and sudden movements can ruin hours of careful preparation. Camouflage helps in remaining undetected, allowing photographers to wait silently and still for the right moment. Hunters also benefit from this patience, as it enables them to wait for the ideal shot without rushing and potentially missing their target.

Specialized Camouflage for Different Hunts: Moose Hunting

Different types of hunting require specialized camouflage, and moose hunting is a prime example. Moose are large, elusive animals often found in dense forests and swampy areas. Successful moose hunters understand the need for specific camouflage patterns that mimic the unique environments where moose thrive. Moose hunting clothes are designed to blend into the dark, shadowy forests and marshes, making hunters virtually invisible to these keen-eyed creatures.

During moose hunting season, the right camouflage can make or break your experience. Moose have excellent vision and can easily detect unnatural movements or colors. By wearing appropriate camouflage, hunters can move quietly and position themselves for a clear shot without spooking their quarry.

The specialized gear often includes clothing that covers the entire body, including gloves and face masks, ensuring that no part of the hunter stands out against the natural backdrop. This thorough approach is essential in moose hunting, where patience and precision are key.

Capturing Authentic Wildlife Behavior

Wildlife photography isn’t just about taking beautiful pictures; it’s about capturing authentic wildlife behavior. Camouflage allows photographers to become invisible observers, documenting animals in their natural state without any human interference. This is particularly important for conservation efforts, as understanding genuine animal behavior can inform better strategies for protecting various species and their habitats.

Photographers who use camouflage can get closer to their subjects, often capturing moments that would be impossible to see from a distance. This proximity results in more intimate and detailed shots, showcasing the animals’ daily activities, interactions, and environments.

The authenticity of these images can inspire greater appreciation and respect for wildlife, encouraging more people to support conservation initiatives. By blending into the environment, photographers can witness and document behaviors that might otherwise go unnoticed, providing invaluable insights into the natural world.

outdoorcommand.com (Post 2)

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter