by Ann Hinds

Created on: August 22, 2009

It has been said that you can tell a good camper by the camp he keeps. That is also true of the tent. Keeping the tent clean inside and out is the best way to preserve it for future use.

A saggy tent is not only unattractive; it prevents it from providing good shelter. Fix any leaning poles and tighten the guy wires. Make sure that the stakes are properly set. Brush off dirt and leaves as necessary. Before pitching the tent, check the ground for bird droppings. Excessive bird droppings under the tree may mean that it is a roosting spot. Should bird dropping get on the tent, wipe them off with water and a rag.

Pitch or fruit from trees can make a mess on the tent. Nail polish remover will take it off but might destroy the waterproofing. Let it dry completely and then scrape off with a dull knife. Cooking grease can be washed off with soapy water or by rubbing gently with a scrubbing pad.

If it has been raining, the tent may be splattered with mud. If you have a fresh water source, the tent can be flushed with water. If you need to conserve water, let it dry and brush off with a whisk broom.

Sweep out the tent daily. Pants with cuffs will pull in dirt and other debris. Mud should be kept out at all costs. If there are twigs outside of the flap, scrape your shoes before entering. Put an old blanket just inside the door to remove shoes and boots. It is easier to take it out and shake it than to constantly sweep the tent.

If you are camping in an area that is continually damp, leave shoes and boots outside and have a pair of shoes to change into when you step into the tent.

Keep the inside of the tent clean with everything in a specific place. It is easier to find things in hurry or when it is dark if the items are in their assigned places. It is a good idea to air the sleeping bags every few days.

After returning home, do a through cleaning. Sometimes, it is helpful to turn the tent inside out to remove any dirt or sand that does not sweep out. Hose down the tent to remove any debris. Let it dry completely and repack.

Our tent is twenty years old. It looks almost new and we continue to use it. The zippers are in good shape and there is only one small hole. Take good care of your tent and it will take care of you for many years to come.

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