How to Clean a Tent After a Rainy Camping Trip

A rainy camping trip can be a beautiful and memorable experience. But it can also be a mess. A wet and muddy tent can be a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can damage your tent and even make you sick. That's why it's so important to properly clean and dry your tent after a rainy camping trip.

1. Set Up Your Tent at Home

The first thing you need to do is set up your tent at home so it can dry out. If you have a backyard, you can set it up outside. If you don't have a backyard, you can set it up in your garage or your living room.

2. Clean the Inside of Your Tent

Once your tent is dry, you can start cleaning the inside.

Sweep out any dirt and debris.
Wipe down the inside of the tent with a damp cloth.
If there are any stubborn stains, you can use a mild soap and water solution to clean them.

3. Clean the Outside of Your Tent

Use a soft sponge or a cloth to gently scrub the outside of the tent with a mild soap and water solution.
Do not use a pressure washer, as this can damage the waterproof coating on your tent.
Rinse the tent thoroughly with clean water.

4. Dry Your Tent Completely

This is the most important step. Your tent needs to be completely dry before you store it. Any moisture can lead to mold and mildew.

Let your tent air dry completely.
Make sure you open all the doors and windows to allow for good air circulation.
If you have a two-wall tent, you'll need to dry the rainfly separately.

5. Store Your Tent Properly

Once your tent is completely dry, you can store it in a cool, dry place.

Do not store your tent in a damp basement or a hot attic.
A loose-fitting storage bag is a better option than a tight compression sack.

The Bottom Line

Cleaning and drying your tent after a rainy camping trip is essential for preventing mold and mildew and extending the life of your gear. By following these simple steps, you can keep your tent in great condition for years to come.