Northern Ireland Outdoors Forum - Hiking, camping and more
General => Gear Questions, Information, Reviews and Competitions => Topic started by: 666_pack on September 01, 2009
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hi all,
just a quick question how & what is the best way to reproof your tent?
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Had a quick spook online and found this in another forum (I know and I'm sorry!)
"I recently threw an old TNF Tadpole into the washing machine with some Nikwax Tech Wash, followed by Nikwax TX-Direct, then tumble-dried it. The result... a nice, clean, fully waterproof tent ready for the next adventure!"
http://www.nikwax.com/en-gb/index.php
Hope thats of help
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thanks for that chris just wanna keep it in good nick ;D
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wise words! I'd never really thought of doing that to my tent but I suppose when you think about it, it makes perfect sense hassle free way to look after your big nlyon baby!
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Personally I would be a bit wary of putting my tent in a washing machine, a quick look on OutdoorsMagic throws up
Because it's such a big piece of fabric that it is very likely to form a complete barrier to water passage on the outside of the drum. When the machine does a spin cycle, the trapped water forces the fabric through any gaps in the outside of the drum. These bits can then snag and tear.
Really, really don't try this in a top-loader; you're very likely to tear the crap out of the flysheet.
Trust me, I did this when trying to rinse some dust off a fly 20 years ago...
and
As a Nikwax Product Development Chemist I can happily advise on the best of our products for your needs.
You should clean first with Nikwax Tech Wash (by handwashing in a bucket or sponging on). Areas with heavy tree sap staining may require direct application of neat Tech Wash first. After washing, carefully rinse with plenty of water.
You can then apply one of two Nikwax products for proofing purposes. Both are easy to apply and are supplied in non-aerosol pump sprays.
Tent & Gear Proof provides waterproofing and will significantly strengthen the fabric of your tent too.
UV Proof provides waterproofing and the strengthening with the additional benefit of containing UV blocking components to protect your tent from damage from UV radiation, which will greatly extend it's life.
Although others have said theyve thrown their tent in the washing machine without it shredding, I'd rather eb on the safe side and do it by hand pitched/or in a bath (maybe make myself waterproof at the same time ;) )
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cheers guys.