Coleman Canvas Tent Care

Proper care of a canvas tent involves a combination of careful use and also preventative maintenance. While most tents today are made of nylon or other artificial materials, it's still possible to find some older style Coleman canvas tents, usually secondhand. By following a careful regimen you can ensure that your canvas tent will provide you with years of use.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Waterproofer and seam sealer

Step 1

Clear away sharp branches and protruding rocks in the area where you're setting up your tents. These can poke holes in or tear the fabric of the tent, necessitating repairs and shortening the lifespan of the tent.

Step 2

Avoid unnecessary sun exposure to the tent. UV rays from the sun can damage the fabric over time. Limit long-term exposure to the sun to preserve the fabric. Try to set your tent up in shady areas when possible--you'll limit sun exposure and stay cooler too.

Step 3

Dry your tent before packing it. A damp or wet tent is a perfect place for mold and mildew to grow. If you have to pack up a wet tent, be sure to set it up later and allow it to air dry. It's also a good practice to air the tent occasionally when it's been stored for a long time.

Step 4

Waterproof and seal the seams of the tent annually. Use a product specifically designed for canvas tents and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Article Written By Nichole Liandi

Based in Virginia, Nichole Liandi has been a freelance writer since 2005. Her articles have appeared on various print and online publications. Liandi has traveled extensively in Europe and East Asia and incorporates her experiences into her articles. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in history from West Virginia University.

Editor's Pick

Backcountry Camping Tips

You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...
More Backcountry Camping...
Popular Article

Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...
More Beach Camping...
Featured Video

Common Sense Hiking Tips

The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.
More Camping Basics...