What is the problem with mould or mildew?

There are two areas to focus on here. When mildew starts to grow on fabrics, it attaches and intertwines itself to the fabric. It generally creates a dark unsightly patch and the fabric takes on a musty undesirable odour. As the mould grows, it typically causes the tent fabric to deteriorate and rot. If mould is allowed to grow for too long, the tent fibers may be irreparably damaged.

The second aspect to be aware of is the effect of mould on a persons health. The extent of the effect varies greatly from person to person but moulds have the potential to cause allergic reactions and respiratory problems. Symptoms caused by mould allergy are watery itchy eyes, a chronic cough, headaches or migraines, difficulty breathing, rashes, tiredness, sinus problems, nasal blockage and frequent sneezing.

How do I prevent mould growing on my tent or awning?

On the generally accepted precept that prevention is better than cure, what steps can be taken to reduce the risk of getting mould growth on that valuable tent or awning.

Essentially, take the storage preparation of your tent seriously. Never pack your tent away when it is damp; this is a classic way of encouraging mildew. If the tent is even mildly damp when you are preparing to put it away into storage, then wait till a dry fine day, peg it out and ensure that it is well and truly dry. At the same time, inspect the tent for soiling. Clean off any earth or mud as this will retain moisture and create a haven for mould to grow whilst in storage. Check it also for any mould or mildew that may have grown whilst it has been in use. If you find any then remove it using our guide below.

How do I clean my tent fabric and prepare it for storage?

On the generally accepted precept that prevention is better than cure, what steps can be taken to reduce the risk of getting mould growth on that valuable tent or awning.

Firstly, some do nots. We do not recommend using bleach as this can damage the fabric. If you use bleach, then wash the area thouroughly with water to remove the bleach as much as possible. Additionally, don't use washing up liquid or detergents as these will neutralise any tent proofing in the fabric. This will encourage the fabric to retain water leading to a greater risk of mould and also of leaks.

In answer to the question, 'What should I use to clean my tent or awning?' We recommend a product such as Nikwax Techwash developed specifically for the purpose or alternatively, use a dilute solution of a sterilising fluid such as Milton. If using a sterilising fluid, then one part sterilising fluid to ten parts water should be satisfactory. You should carefully sponge the solution onto the soiled or mouldy area and then rinse off with cold clean water after half an hour. Note: it is a very good idea to test the solution on an area of fabric that is in an inconspicuous place before treating other areas.

Is there anything else I should do to protect the tent fabric before storing my tent away?

The process of cleaning the tent can reduce the effectivness of the proofing that the tent fabric will have been treated with. And anyway, tent proofing does not last forever. Having chosen a dry day, pegged the tent out, inspected it and got rid of all the dirt and soiling, what better time to reproof the tent and make it suitable for both storage and next seasons use, than now?

There are a large number of products specifically developed for reproofing tents and awnings. Most, if not all, require the fabric to be dry, so let any areas that you have cleaned dry off thoroughly before re-proofing. Instructions will of course, vary from product to product so follow the application instructions given by the manufacturers. After proofing, leave the tent till it is at least touch-dry but longer if possible. Once dry, your tent is ready to store away!