What should I do if there is mould on my canvas tent?

Preventing Mould on Canvas Tents: A Comprehensive Guide

What is Mould?

Mould is a type of naturally occurring fungus that spreads through airborne spores. It thrives in damp, humid conditions and can grow on almost any organic material, including food, furniture, textiles, clothing, walls, ceilings, and tents.

Mould on Tents

Although canvas tents often come with an anti-mould treatment, they can still develop mould if packed away while wet or damp. Tents pitched in continuous downpours or humid conditions are particularly vulnerable. Some locations are more prone to mould, making it hard to predict where and when it might occur. Mould is a significant drawback of canvas tents compared to plastic ones, but with proper care, you can manage and prevent it.

Mould can appear and spread quickly in the right conditions. It is unsightly and, if left untreated, can cause severe damage to your tent. However, with a little vigilance, preventing and defeating mould is achievable.

Preventing Mould

The best way to prevent mould is to ensure your tent is put away clean and dry. Follow these steps:

1. Dry Completely:

Dry your tent thoroughly in the sun, ensuring all parts (guy ropes, pegs, poles, etc.) are dry. Remove all dirt and debris before packing away.
Homecamp tents dry quickly, so some breeze and sunlight should suffice.
If you can't dry your tent before leaving camp, loosely fold it for the trip home and dry it out as soon as you arrive at a suitable location.

2. Regular Maintenance for Semi-Permanent Pitches:

Regularly inspect your tent for signs of mould and remove debris such as bird droppings, tree sap, dust, and dirt.
Ensure plants, tree branches, and tall grass are not touching the canvas.
Pitch your tent where it receives some direct sunlight throughout the day.
Keep the tent well-ventilated with open windows or doors, especially in wet, humid conditions.
Regularly spot-clean your tent with a reputable canvas cleaner like Iosso Tent & Canvas Cleaner.

3. High Humidity and Wet Environments:

Invest in a reputable canvas cleaner, such as Canvas Magic, Stimex Tent Cleaner, or Iosso Tent & Canvas Cleaner.
Consider applying a high-quality waterproofing agent, such as Dynaproof or Bradproof, during your first setup. Factory waterproofing is universal and may not be adequate for extremely high humidity conditions. Extra waterproofing adds weight and reduces breathability slightly but provides added protection.

Handling Mould on Your Tent

If you find mould on your tent, it will appear as tiny black or dark blue/green spots, usually in one area but capable of spreading quickly. Do not ignore it.

Immediate Action:

Use a mixture of one part white vinegar to four parts water (adding baking soda is even better). Spray this on the affected area or make a paste, leave it for 20 minutes, then gently scrub with a soft brush. Ensure the tent is 100% dry before packing it away.
For canvas treatments like Canvas Magic, follow the same instructions.

Severe Mould:

If your entire tent is dirty or mouldy, unzip the floor and soak the canvas in a large container with water and mould treatment. Leave it to soak overnight and thoroughly dry the next day.

When to Reproof Your Tent

After cleaning mould, reproof your tent immediately using a waterproofing treatment like Dynaproof, Bradproof, or Nikwax to maintain water resistance and prevent further mildew outbreaks. Even without mould, reproof your tent regularly—annually or whenever you see mould appearing.

Is It Worth the Hassle?

Yes. While there are trade-offs between canvas and plastic tents, these simple maintenance tasks are not major hassles and are essential for preserving your tent for many years. Proper care for your canvas tent is like looking after an expensive item of clothing, vehicle, or house. Understanding the risks and taking responsibility is key.

Additional Tips for Mould Prevention

Climate Awareness: Be mindful of the climate you are camping in. If you are camping in areas known for high humidity, take extra precautions to dry and ventilate your tent.
Use of Dehumidifiers: In humid environments, consider using a portable dehumidifier inside the tent when possible.
Storage Environment: Store your tent in a cool, dry place with good air circulation. Avoid damp basements or attics.
Regular Inspections: Check your tent regularly during long-term storage for any signs of mould, and address issues promptly.

By following these guidelines, you can effectively prevent and manage mould, ensuring your canvas tent remains a reliable and long-lasting part of your camping gear.