How to Clean Tent Canvas

How to Clean Tent Canvas
Canvas tents last for years if they are well taken care of. Sometimes after extended use, mud and dirt will accumulate. If not put away dry, mold and mildew can develop. To clean a canvas tent, it's best to wait for a warm, sunny day, so the tent has time to dry.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:
  • Brush Mild detergent like ivory dish soap Bucket of warm water Hydrogen peroxide
  • Brush
  • Mild detergent like ivory dish soap
  • Bucket of warm water
  • Hydrogen peroxide
Step 1
Lay out the tent on a large dry surface like a driveway.
Step 2
Mix some soap with warm water in a bucket to about the concentration of dishwashing water.
Step 3
Scrub the tent using the soapy water. Concentrate on visible areas of dirt and mold. When finished, rinse the canvas off with a hose.
Step 4
Leave the tent to dry completely in the sun. If the mold or dirt is still visible, repeat the scrubbing using a 50/50 mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water. Hose the tent off when you're finished, and allow it to dry.
Step 5
Even mild soap can damage the waterproofing on the tent. After it has dried completely, apply a new layer of waterproofing to ensure the tent continues to keep you dry.

Article Written By Jason Gordon

Jason Gordon has been a writer for more than seven years. In addition to online freelance work, he has written for "Texas Highways," "AAA Southwest," "Glimpse," the "University of Washington Daily" and the "Dallas Morning News." Gordon also has master's degrees in public administration and international studies.

Write for Trails.com
  • Editor's Pick

    Backcountry Camping Tips

    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

    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

    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...

Outdoor Gear & Equipment

ALL NEW Trails Gear Store powered by:

Trail Finder

US Map

Search by Keyword