Cleaning rooftop tents – Rooftop tents are the epitome of freedom and flexibility when camping.
But especially after an exciting trip, it is important to look after your trusty roof tent so that it remains in perfect condition and lasts as long as possible.
So before you put it into storage, you should give it a thorough clean inside and out.
But even after a long period of non-use, it makes sense to give your roof tent a good once-over before your next camping vacation.
Here are some useful tips on how to clean your roof tent properly so that it is always ready for the next adventure.
In advance in the store: Our tent cleaner.
Camping Ratgeber:
Why should I clean my roof tent?
Cleaning your roof tent regularly is of crucial importance.
But why is it actually so important?
The answer is simple: a roof tent is a commodity that is subject to the whims of nature.
This means that dust, pollen and insect residue can collect.
In addition, you fold up your roof tent again and again.
This can cause dirt and even moisture to accumulate inside the folded tent, which can lead to mildew stains and mold.
Don’t worry, this can be easily prevented and the stains can also be removed if they have already formed.
So make sure you clean your roof tent thoroughly, ventilate it sufficiently and store it correctly when not in use to save yourself time and effort!
You can find more tips for greater longevity and for removing mold here:
That’s why you should clean your roof tent:
- Dust, pollen and environmental dirt particles collect
- Always keep it clean and tidy
- Prevent mold and mildew stains
- This increases the longevity of your roof tent
Carefully clean the outside of the roof tent
If you store your roof tent improperly or do not ventilate it sufficiently after a rain shower, mold and mildew stains may appear on the outside.
Although the coarse dirt rolls off on contact with water, this is sometimes not enough to get rid of stubborn dirt, dust and insects that may have accumulated during your travels.
So proceed as follows when cleaning:
- Check material
- Brushing and hosing down
- The right cleaning agent
- Allow to dry well
Here are the individual steps again in detail:
Check material
First look at the material of your roof tent.
Different materials require different cleaning methods.
Some tents are made of robust polyester, while others are made of more delicate cotton fabric.
Brushing and hosing down
Use a soft brush to loosen dirt and dust.
You can then rinse the tent with a gentle jet of water to remove stubborn dirt.
The right cleaning agent
If stubborn stains occur, you can use a mild detergent or soapy water.
Make sure that the cleaning agent does not damage the tent material.
Take a look at a suitable tent cleaner here in the store:
Allow to dry well
Allow your roof tent to dry thoroughly before you fold it up and stow it away.
Otherwise, moisture and mold could become a problem.
Give it a good hose-down, clean it with the right cleaning agent and then leave it to dry – and your roof tent will be as good as new!
Caution!
Do not take the roof tent to the car wash
It is generally not recommended to take a roof tent to an automatic car wash.
Most manufacturers of roof tents advise against using an automatic car wash, as the powerful water jets, brushes and other elements of the car wash can damage the roof tent.
So clean your roof tent by hand.
This way, you have more control over the cleaning process and can ensure that no damage occurs to the roof tent.
Cleaning by hand instead of an automatic car wash!
The right care for the inside of your roof tent
Do I also have to clean the inside of my roof tent?
Yes, because the inside of your roof tent is just as important as the outside.
Especially after a longer camping trip and if you haven’t used your roof tent for a while, you should clean the inside thoroughly.
So here are some tips on how to keep your roof tent clean and cozy:
Clear out everything completely
To completely clean your roof tent, you should first remove all blankets, pillows, the mattress and other items from the tent.
Knock them out, clean them separately and hang them in front of the tent to dry, for example.
Floor care and interior
Sweep the floor of your roof tent to remove dirt and sand.
A small hand brush can help to clean the floor thoroughly.
Then wipe everything through with a damp cloth.
Use a mild cleaner to wipe down the floor as well as the inside walls and roof of the tent.
Make sure that no moisture remains.
Cleaning the mattress
If your roof tent has a mattress, remove the cover and wash it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Air the mattress to remove moisture and odors.
Elimination of unpleasant odors
If unpleasant odors have built up, you can place an odor-eating bag or baking soda in the tent to get rid of them.
The odors will be absorbed and your roof tent will smell fresh again.
Pay attention to quality control
Last but not least: remember to regularly check for potential problems such as leaking seams or damaged zippers.
The better you look after your roof tent, the longer it will serve you well.
Clear everything out of the tent, wipe the floor, walls and roof with a damp cloth and ventilate the camping accessories separately!