Have you ever been camping and your tent got dirty? Or maybe you just want to freshen up your old tent before you go on a camping trip again.
Well, did you know that you can actually wash a camping tent in the washing machine? It might sound crazy, but it actually works! Here’s how to do it.
Should you wash your tent?
You should only wash a dirty tent or when it’s starting to show signs of wear and tear.
Washing it too often can strip away its waterproof coating, UV proofing, damage the tent’s mesh and tent’s seams, and lead to water damage.
If your tent starts to have that funky smell, it’s a good indication that it needs good washing.
Can you wash a tent in a washing machine?
The answer to this question is unfortunately not as straightforward as we would like it to be.
The main issue with tent machine washing is that most machines are not large enough to accommodate a camping tent, and even if you could fit a small tent in your machine, the agitation of the cycle could damage the tent’s fabric.
That being said, there are some instances where washing it in the machine is an option.
If you have a very dirty tent that needs good scrubbing, you can try putting it in a mesh laundry bag and washing it on a gentle cycle with cold water.
Be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions before attempting this, as some tents are not meant to be washed at all.
Can you wash a tent in a washing machine without an agitator?
If you have a front-loading washing machine, you can wash your tent in it without an agitator.
Just make sure to put the tent in a mesh bag first to protect it from getting tangled up in the washer. You’ll also want to use a mild detergent and cold water setting when washing your tent.
If you have a top-loading washing machine, you’ll need to be careful not to damage your tent.
The best way to wash a camping tent in a top-load washer is to put it in a mesh bag and tie the bag closed. Then, place the bag on the bottom of the washer tub and fill the tub with cold water.
Add a small amount of laundry detergent to the water and let the machine run through a cycle.
Be sure to check on your tent periodically to make sure it’s not getting too wet or tangled up in the washing machine.
Can you wash a tent on a delicate cycle?
Washing a tent in the washing machine can be risky. But if you do choose to wash your tent in the washer, use cold water and the delicate cycle.
A delicate cycle of the washing machine won’t damage the tent fabric.
However, you should avoid washing it too often as this can shorten its lifespan. When stored properly, a tent can last for many years.
If you must wash it frequently, spot clean it with mild soap and water rather than putting it through the washer.
Be sure to remove all poles, stakes, guy lines, and other objects that could damage the machine. Inspect the tent seams before washing to ensure they are secure. After washing, line dry your tent.
Can you machine wash a nylon tent?
If you own a nylon tent then you may be wondering if it can be machine washed.
The answer to this question is yes, you can machine wash a nylon unit. However, you will need to take some precautions before doing so.
First, make sure that your tent is labeled as being machine washable. If it is not, then do not attempt to wash it in the machine.
Second, make sure that it’s free of dirt and dust before putting it in the machine. Any dirt or dust that is left on the tent may cause damage to it during the wash cycle.
Finally, be sure to use a delicate cycle when washing your tent. This will help protect it from being damaged.
How to clean a tent with mold?
A tent with mold and moldy smell can be cleaned with a few simple steps. First, mix equal parts of water and vinegar in a spray bottle.
Next, generously spray the moldy areas of the model with the mixture. Let the cleaning solution sit for at least 30 minutes before soft scrub brush the area.
You can use an old toothbrush to remove the mold or some other soft brush. Finally, rinse the tent thoroughly with clean water.
There is a difference if you have molded canvas tent or a polyester tent. Try the vinegar mix on a small inconspicuous area of a synthetic tent before spraying the entire tent.
How to clean a canvas tent with mold?
If you have a canvas tent, you can use a bleach and water mix to have your tent clean.
I would start with 1 part bleach to 10 parts water and adjust as needed. Make sure to rinse the bleach mixture off really well or it will eat away at the canvas.
How do you wash a tent in the washing machine?
If you decide to clean it in the washer, first make sure that your machine can handle the weight of the tent. A standard-size washing machine should be able to accommodate a four-person tent.
Remove dirt from your tent and make sure that is dust-free.
Larger tents may need to be cleaned in multiple loads. Set the washer to the delicate cycle and use cold water.
Add a mild detergent designed for polyester tents. Avoid using bleach or fabric softener. Let the washing machine do its job, then remove the tent and allow it to air dry.
If possible, set up the tent in your backyard or some other location where it can get plenty of fresh air and direct sunlight. This will help to ensure that mildew doesn’t have a chance to form on the fabric.
How to hand wash a tent?
If you decide to hand wash it, take it outside and set it up. Use a garden hose to get your tent wet, then scrub it with a soft sponge or brush and soapy water.
Don’t forget to use a cleaning solution on the tent inside. Be sure to rinse it thoroughly. You can also use a pressure washer on a low setting, holding it about a foot away from the fabric.
Once your tent is clean, make sure you dry it completely before storing it. You can set it up in your yard and let it air out in the sun, or place it in front of a fan inside your house.
If possible, open all the doors and windows to help the drying process along.
What can you wash your tent with?
The answer depends on the fabric of your tent.
If your tent is made with natural fibers like cotton or wool, you can wash it with soap and water. If your tent is made with synthetic fibers like polyester or nylon, you can wash it with a mild detergent.
What is the best way to clean a tent?
The best practice is to use a mixture of water and mild dish soap to clean your tent. You can either hand wash it or put it in the washer on a gentle cycle.
Be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions before washing, as some tents are not meant to be washed in the machine.
How to wash a tent fly?
A tent fly can be washed in the washing machine, but it is important to use a delicate wash cycle and to avoid using too much detergent.
It is also important to line dry the fly or hang it in a shady area to prevent the fabric from fading. You can also handwash it if you prefer.
Fill a sink or bucket with cool water and add a small amount of mild detergent.
Soak the fly for a few minutes, then remove any excess dirt or mud. Gently scrub the tent fabric using a soft brush, then rinse it thoroughly with cool water.
Allow it to air dry completely before storing it in a dry place.
Can you put your tent in the dryer?
Forget about the idea of putting a tent in a dryer because it will ruin the fabric.
The intense heat will cause the tent to shrink, and the high-speed spin of the dryer can damage the tent poles.
Instead, wash your tent in a large tub or bathtub with cold water and a mild detergent. Gently scrub it with a brush, and then rinse it thoroughly. Hang it outside to completely dry.
Freshen up your dirty tent
If you’ve ever been camping and found yourself in a dirty tent, don’t worry – I have the perfect solution for you.
You don’t have to buy a new tent just because it has a little dirt on it (unless the tent fabric isn’t in the best shape and doesn’t have its protective coating anymore).
In this post, I have taught you how to clean a tent properly in a washer and also how to handwash it. It may seem strange, but it actually works quite well.
So if your next camping trip is looming and your old tent has seen better days, follow my simple steps to have a clean tent in no time!
