You spent a lot of money on your canvas tent. Let’s talk about how to protect your investment.
1. Use a Sunshade to Prevent UV Damage. The first way to protect your canvas tent is to shield it from sun exposure. Stout Tent exclusively uses high-quality canvas because it is more durable and breathable than nylon and other tent materials. That said, prolonged canvas exposure to UV rays can still affect the canvas. Picture Florida retirement home patio furniture. You don’t want that to happen to your canvas tent. Fortunately, the Stout Tent Sunshade is explicitly designed to filter UV rays. The sunshade is constructed from heavy-duty, high-density polyethylene woven fabric that protects your canvas while maintaining breathability and allows heat to transfer out of your tent. It even cools the inside of your tent by about 10 degrees! The sun shade adds a layer of protection that helps to reduce UV exposure to your tent fabric and prolong its lifespan.
2. Use a Footprint to Protect Against Ground Hazards. The second way to protect your canvas is to add a protective ground layer. One of the easiest ways to protect your tent is by simply using a tarp or Stout Tent footprint underneath it. A footprint protects your tent floor from abrasive surfaces like rocks and sticks. Any tarp will technically work, but we like the footprint because it is designed to fit perfectly underneath your tent. It is staked into the ground with your tent to ensure it stays in place. This also prevents water from seeping between the tarp and the tent bottom should it rain. This additional layer acts as a barrier, preventing tears and punctures that could compromise the tent’s integrity and prolong your canvas tent’s life.
3. Prevent Mold Damage Through Proper Ventilation and Care. The third, possibly most important, way to keep your canvas tent safe is to protect it from mold. Canvas tents are breathable, but moisture can accumulate in humid or wet conditions, leading to mold. In our experience, mold is the number one cause of premature death in canvas tents. While it is possible to remedy a moldy tent (we’ve got resources for that), it is MUCH easier to prevent it from forming or spreading in the first place. Our double wall tents boast a 360-degree screen that lets in the nice cross breeze that keeps your tent cool and helps keep mold at bay. We highly recommend regularly checking the interior of your tent, as well as any blankets, sleeping bags, etc., for mold spots. To prevent spreading, you can easily treat small mold spots with Liquid Mold Remover. Keeping your tent well-ventilated and treating mold spots before they spread is guaranteed to prolong the life of your canvas tent.
PRO TIP: To wipe down condensation and moisture inside the tent, spray a washrag with the Liquid Mold Remover and place it over a broom. The broom will allow you to reach your tent’s high ceilings and walls.
4. Ensure Proper Tent Setup. The fourth way to protect your canvas tent is through proper tent setup. Taking the time to ensure your tent is secure from the start is crucial for its longevity. Pay attention to the placement of guy lines to distribute tension evenly and prevent excessive stress on the canvas fabric and zippers. Avoid over-tightening or leaving slack in the lines, as this can affect the tent’s stability and durability over time.
5. Practice Proper Storage and Maintenance. The fifth and final way to protect your canvas tent is to store it safely. Clean your tent according to Stout Tent’s guidelines at the end of each camping season. Use a soft brush to remove dirt and debris, and spot-clean any stains with a mild detergent. Ensure the tent is completely dry before storing it in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing the tent in direct sunlight or damp conditions, which can lead to mold growth and fabric degradation.
By following these five tips, you’ll ensure your Stout Tent remains in excellent condition and ready for your next outdoor adventure. Proper maintenance not only extends the life of your tent but also enhances your camping experience by providing reliable and comfortable shelter in all conditions.
For more information on caring for your Stout Tent, visit their official website or consult the Stout Tent Maintenance Guide included with each tent purchase.
Happy camping!
