Why A Tent Gets Sticky and How To Fix It
When you have a sticky tent or rain fly, it can be quite difficult to set up. Having to peel apart the panels because they are sticky and glued together is a nuisance, whether you are working on your own or with the assistance of a fellow camper. As a result, the entire process becomes far more difficult and time consuming than it needs to be. The inside walls of your tent or rainfly become sticky as a result of the breakdown of the polyurethane coating that was initially put to the surface as a waterproofing layer on the surface.
After washing, let it to air dry for a few hours before using it.
Pack it loosely in a mesh bag or hang it to dry for long-term storage.
Check out these tips for ensuring that your tent is ready for your next camping trip before you go.
What Causes A Tent to Become Sticky
It is not always the case that the obvious solution to your dilemma will be found. One of the most prevalent reasons of a sticky tent is a breakdown in the waterproof coating applied by the manufacturer during manufacturing. Polyurethane, which is effectively a liquid plastic, is used to make the majority of waterproofing materials. After drying, the liquid hardens into a waterproof coating that is usually also heat resistant, and it is this layer that protects your tent from the elements while yet enabling the nylon or polyester to breathe.
PU Delamination
With time, the polymers that make up polyurethane begin to decouple from one another, a process known as delamination, causing your tent to lose its shape. This causes the covering to get sticky, which can make setting up your tent a nuisance. Not to mention that there might be an unpleasant stench associated with it, and no one wants to sleep in a tent that smells like a campfire. Not only may age eat away at your tent’s covering, but failing to properly dry it off before storing it might also cause your tent to cling.
- The water is unable to evaporate, and as a result, your tent suffers as a result.
- Always try to dry your tent before storing it.
- ID 101467856 is a unique identifier.
- Dreamstime.com is a photographer based in Moscow.
Off-Gassing
In addition to the above-mentioned factors, one of the most common causes of polyurethane delamination is excessive tension when rolling up your tent. Just like water molecules cannot evaporate from a moist tent that has been stored, gas molecules from the polyurethane covering may not be able to dissipate if your tent is too tightly packed in your vehicle. Off-gassing is a natural process that occurs with practically everything in your environment. Your furnishings, your devices, your home, and your automobile (think of the new-car scent) all emit gas molecules that contribute to the smell that you are accustomed to experiencing.
A tightly wrapped tent prevents the gas molecules from escaping and causing them not only to smell terrible, but also to delaminate the polyurethane material underneath the surface.
The trapped gas can also be damaging to your health since the tent covering emits molecules from a type of chemical known as plasticizers, which can be dangerous if inhaled in large quantities. For such a simple difficulty to avoid, it is preferable to just load your tent in a haphazard manner.
How to Remove The Stickiness From A Tent
For whatever reason, you failed to air out your tent when you arrived home, or it’s been around the block a couple of times and the coating is starting to adhere to it. If your tent and rain fly are stuck, you may attempt the following methods to unstick them before shelling out the cash for a new one.
Baby Powder
Perhaps you failed to air out your tent when you returned home, or perhaps it has been around the block a few times and the coating is beginning to stick. If your tent and rain fly are stuck, you can attempt the following methods to unstick them before shelling out the large cash for a new one:
Washing Machine
Using a washing machine to remove the previous waterproofing is one of the quickest and most effective methods. Because the polyurethane is going to flake off during the wash cycle, you’ll probably prefer to do this in a laundromat rather than at home. All you have to do is run the tent through the cold wash cycle around three times with a mild powdered detergent. Once your tent has been thoroughly cleaned, you should allow it to air dry. If there is any leftover delaminated coating, you should be able to scrape it off with a soft-bristled brush at this point.
After removing the old polyurethane, you can use a fresh sealant to re-coat the outside of the tent and rain fly to ensure that they’re waterproof once again.
Hand Wash
A laundromat is an alternative if you don’t want to use your own washing machine and don’t want to take the possibility of ruining your clothes. Otherwise, you can always use some elbow grease and scrub away. Put the tent in your bathtub and soak it for a few minutes in warm, soapy water before scrubbing it clean with a stiff-bristled brush. After you’ve done washing away the old polyurethane, you’ll want to rinse your tent well with cold water to remove both the polyurethane flakes and the soap from it.
Re-run the process with the bag and rain fly if they are both sticky as well.
Cleaners for Washing a Tent
You have a number of alternatives to consider when selecting the finest tent cleaning for your specific needs. Powder detergent will be your greatest pick because it is both effective and non-abrasive, making it an excellent choice. The use of liquid detergent is also an option; however, it will clog the pores in the cloth and result in additional problems. Personally, I’d stick to powdered milk instead. Another alternative is to use water and vinegar, but the scent of your tent will not be pleasant afterward.
All of the cleaners have the danger of discoloring the fabric, but ammonia is the one that is most likely to damage the color of your tent.
It’s also a good idea to wear gloves no matter which cleaner you use, regardless of how effective it is. Check out our page on How to Keep Your Tent Clean While Camping for the finest tips and tricks for cleaning off everyday dirt and grime while keeping your tent looking and operating at its peak.
Waterproofing a Tent and Rainfly
After you’ve cleaned, rinsed, and allowed your tent to air dry, you’ll be ready to apply a fresh layer of waterproofing to it. Tent Sure is a popular product that you may test, and it is also known by the brand namesSEAM GRIP +TF. With this polyurethane-based solution, you can just spray it directly on the tent and it will dry to form a new protective coating. Check Out the Most Recent Offer Nikwax TentGearis a product that protects your tent fabric from water and ultraviolet rays while yet allowing it to breathe – which is important to have in order to minimize condensation accumulation.
- It is not made of polyurethane, yet this is one of the reasons why it is more breathable while still maintaining its water resistance.
- In addition, it is not based on polyurethane, yet it still performs an excellent job of waterproofing your tent.
- If you prefer to use a paint-on alternative, make sure to apply it while the tent is still put up on a flat area.
- To summarize, no matter whatever product you use, you’ll want to allow it adequate time to dry before storing or using your tent for the second time.
Sealing the Seams
If you have sewn seams, they will require a little more attention in order to remain waterproof. Using a seam sealant such asGear Aid Seam Grip or Peregrine McNett Seam Grip after they’ve been cleaned and dried is recommended. These products come with an applicator brush that you simply connect to the tube and then use to apply the sealant down the length of the seam, which takes only a few seconds. You’ll need around 1oz of sealant per foot of seams, so plan on having a large supply on hand — especially if you’re also sealing your rain fly at the same time.
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Preventing Your Tent From Becoming Sticky
As previously said, aging, being stored moist, and not being able to off-gas are all factors that contribute to your tent being sticky. It is impossible to prevent your tent from becoming outdated, but it is possible to discover trouble areas before your entire tent becomes a sticky mess. In many situations, these areas may be spot treated using a waterproofer that can be applied directly on top of the old polyurethane. When it comes to storing the tent moist, I recommend avoiding it if at all possible and planning for how you will cope with it if you can’t.
Finally, if you have the room, you may let your tent to off-gas by storing it hanging up while not in use.
Otherwise, don’t roll it up too tightly, put it in a mesh bag or other breathable bag, and plan on unpacking and repacking it on a regular basis to prevent mold from growing. Check Out the Most Recent Offer
Closing Thoughts
One of the most likely reasons for your sticky tent is that the original polyurethane coating has failed. To remove the old coating, use either your laundry machine or a scrub brush to remove it. Then reapply the new waterproofing layer and seam sealant to the surface. However, as is true in most situations, avoiding a problem is far less difficult than dealing with it once it has occurred.
Why is my tent rainfly sticky and how do I fix it?
@claytone Thank you for getting in touch with me! Essentially, the polyurethane coating on the rainfly of your tent has degraded with the passage of time. Moisture, heat, or any combination of these factors might be causing the problem. Before you wipe off the polyurethane coating and reapply it, you’ll want to check your tent to make sure there aren’t any holes or other concerns (which is unlikely considering that it has been sitting unused for a while). We’ve had a number of individuals in the community who have come to us searching for answers to difficulties that are quite similar to yours.
Half Dome 2 Plus Rain Fly (as a replacement).
You can alternatively follow the methods outlined in our Expert Advice Article, How to Waterproof a Tent, which includes a section on removing the PU treatment from the tent using rubbing alcohol and a sponge before reapplying a waterproofing solution to the tent.
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Why Is My Tent Sticky? And How To Fix It?
Almost all campers will be perplexed when they first pull their tents out of the warehouse after several months of storage and preparation. Because the folded components attach to one another, they are difficult to stretch out completely. Even more aggravating, they are no longer as highly water-resistant as they always were. So, what is it about my tent that is sticky? And, more importantly, what can be done to rectify it? All of your questions concerning this issue, as well as some other frequently asked questions, will be answered in this post.
Why Is My Tent Sticky?
One of the most typical causes for your tent to get sticky after a lengthy period of storage is that it was moist or that it was compressed too tightly when it was being kept. But why is this so? It is straightforward to comprehend. Mold will grow on wet canvas, making it stickier. Mold and mildew are inherently sticky, so they will adhere to wet canvas more strongly. At the same time, if your tents are packed too tightly, the chemicals used to manufacture them (plasticizers in particular) will be unable to release their fumes.
In addition to causing you troubles when unfolding the tents, they might cause the Polyurethane coating to wear and break, reducing the water-resistance of the tents and other products.
While doing so, the PU coating serves as a water-resistant and non-stick layer in one. When a result, as the housing deteriorates, the tent’s stickiness will rise as a result. Read more:Should you purchase a low-cost tent?
How To Fix Them?
The three causes of sticky tents discussed above will be addressed by three distinct solutions, which are as follows: a.
If you stored your tent when it was still wet
In the event that you discover foul odors and mold upon unwrapping the tent, use a non-detergent soap and a soft sponge to completely clean the tent. You should make sure that your entire tent is stretched out, or even better, that it is set up so that you can rarely miss any spots. After that, the mold will be gone, and the tent will no longer be sticky and emit foul aromas.
If you compacted your tent too tightly when storing
Avoid putting the item back into the compact sack that it came in when you first bought it. Instead, fold it loosely and place it in a mesh bag or a large plastic bag to keep it safe. This will allow the off-gassing process to go as smoothly and efficiently as possible.
If the stickiness results from the deterioration of the PU coating
It is a little more difficult to deal with the degradation of the PU coating than the other two causes listed above, despite the fact that it is regarded an indirect cause. A variety of powders would have to be applied throughout the tent’s outside to achieve the desired effect. In order to avoid inhaling potentially hazardous powders, we do not recommend doing this on the inside of the tent. You should only use a modest amount of powder since using too much will waste your time and cause the powder to get clumpy, while using too little would be useless.
In terms of the most appropriate sorts of powder, we believe that baby powder is the ideal option due to its low price and high level of health safety.
Because powder layers act as a non-sticky ply in the centre of the tent, they have the potential to prevent surfaces of the tent from adhering to one another.
However, we typically believe that it is only appropriate in this situation as a last resort because it wastes more time and money and is more of a temporary solution.
Preventing Your Tent From Becoming Sticky
As previously stated, the most common reasons for a tent getting sticky are that it was either stored when it was damp or that it was packed too tightly. A sticky tent is frequently caused by one or more of these factors, and in certain cases, it is inevitable. By following a few easy guidelines, you can avoid this from happening in the first place! First and foremost, you must make certain that your tent is totally dry before storing it away. When you arrive home from a camping trip, it’s quite simple to just put your tent in storage without checking to see if it’s damp.
However, before you begin storing your tent, make sure to unpack it and check to see whether it is still completely dry.
The most important aspect of packing your tent is to ensure that everything is packed neatly, but not too tightly.
As a result, make certain that the tent is packed with enough room for it to properly off-gas, or release the chemicals that were employed in its construction.
Waterproofing a Tent and Rainfly
One of the most effective methods of ensuring that your tent does not become wet is to waterproof it. The presence of rain on a camping trip is sometimes unavoidable, therefore waterproofing your tent will be quite beneficial in the long term. In order to accomplish this, you must first seal the seams of your tent using a seam sealer. After that, you should check to see if the urethane coating is still intact. You might consider refreshing the urethane coating if you notice items peeling off on the rainfly or the tent floor.
- Last but not least, you may cover your rainfly with a durable water resistant coating, often known as DWR.
- It isn’t difficult to accomplish because you can get DWR at your local outdoor store or even online.
- However, if you have just washed your tent, you won’t have to wait for it to dry any longer.
- Allow it to settle and dry for a few minutes, and then you can simply wipe away any extra coating and store your tent away.
How Can I Restore Its Water Resistance?
PU coating is responsible for the water-resistance of your tent, as previously explained. As a result, when the tent is downgraded, its water resistance will be reduced. Unfortunately, it is just a matter of time until this happens. In other words, there is no way for you to avoid being affected by this occurrence. When the PU cover ceases to function properly, the first and only thing we can do is re-coating your tent with a water-resistant finish. Make certain that you have completely removed the previous PU coating from your tent, as well as washed and dried it well, before beginning to use the following ingredients to build the new protective housing for your tent.
If you answered yes, continue reading.
Tent Sure
Tent Sure, also known as Gear Aid Seam Grip + TF Tent Fabric Sealant, is a waterproofing substance that is widely available at a low cost. It is available in a variety of colors. While the majority of people use this on their backpacks, jackets, and other similar items, you can also put it on your tent. When it dries, it will form an invisible protective barrier around your tent, keeping it secure from water while also allowing it to retain its flexibility. It is possible, however, that additional Tent Sure will be required to obtain the best possible outcome if you wish to seal the canvas floor.
Nikwax
Nikwax is another excellent option, similar to Tent Sure. In contrast to Tent Sure, you should spray the Nikwax on the outside of your tent to protect it from the elements. The fact that it can provide not just water resistance but also breathability is particularly significant. When using either of the items, you should be sure to distribute the ingredient uniformly across the whole surface area, leaving no missing areas.
To adhere the new coating to the tent, simply wait a few of minutes for it to dry completely. After that, just wipe away any extra spots and bask in the glory of what has just transpired.
Should I Buy A New One?
The answer to this question is dependent on a variety of things. Despite this, the underlying idea is straightforward. If you are able to rescue your tent, do not abandon it. If you are unable to sell it, simply give it away. If your tent is too old and in poor shape, you may have to make the difficult option of removing it from your campsite. Despite the fact that you have attempted all three of the procedures listed above, there is no way to restore it to a usable condition. On the other hand, if it is not extremely old and the steps you take on it have the potential to have some beneficial effects, you may still utilize it and save money on your already tight financial situation.
If the weather is pleasant and there is no severe wind or heavy rain, any tent will suffice for the occasion.
FAQs
According to some theories, the combination of wetness, tight packing, and heat causes the polyurethane coating on the rain fly to deteriorate, become semi-liquid, and become sticky. Alternately, something sticky may have been left on it from the previous time you used it.
Q: How do I keep my tent dry in the rain?
A piece of any waterproof material can be used to provide a protective barrier between the floor of your tent and the ground below its footing. Using this method, water will be able to flow around or beneath your tent without entering your dry zone. If you had anticipated rain when you put up your tent, you can simply tie paracord to add an additional tarp roof to the top of your tent to protect you from the elements. This roof will serve as an additional strengthened barrier to protect you from the rain and wind that may be on its way to your location.
- Although a little fire will not be able to keep rains at bay, it will be able to remove the dampness from inside your tent, giving you the sensation of being warm and dry.
- Consider different angles of the ground and your tarps while you set up your complete camp in order to reduce the effects of wind and rain on your equipment.
- Moreover, it is vital to select a place that is higher in elevation and away from bodies of water.
- Despite the fact that trees can function as rain shields in the rain, water can continue to fall even after the rain has stopped.
Q: Do tents leak when it rains?
Despite the fact that most tents are waterproof, they can nevertheless leak while it’s raining outside.
Some low-quality tents aren’t completely waterproof, which is a problem. In other cases, if you do not put it up properly in a suitable place, rainwater may find its way into your home and make a home for itself. Is it true that touching the tent causes it to leak?
Final Words
After everything is said and done, there are three major reasons for the stickiness of your tent:
- Because you kept your tent while it was still damp, it has become contaminated with mold and mildew. You packed your tent too tightly, preventing any off-gassing from occurring from the chemicals in it. Because to the deterioration of the PU coating, your tent loses its non-stick layer.
And, in accordance with the three causes listed above, we have provided you with three potential solutions to the problem:
- Ensure that your tent is well cleaned before using it. It should be stored in a loose manner to allow for air circulation. Developing a new water-resistant and non-stick coating to replace the existing PU cover is essential.
Hopefully, this post has answered your query, “Why is my tent sticky?” in a straightforward and understandable manner. And what can be done to rectify it?” However, if there is anything that is still unclear and you would want to inquire, please leave a comment below this page to let us know. Thank you for taking the time to read this!
Why is My Tent Sticky & How to Actually Fix it?
I’ll never forget the day I hauled my tent out of the basement since it had been sitting there for a year without being utilized. After returning home and putting it through its paces, I noticed something different: it was difficult to spread because the folded pieces were glued together. After a lengthy time of storage, I didn’t pay much attention to it at first since I assumed it was just a natural reaction to the environment. However, when camping, I realized that the tent is no longer as water-resistant as it used to be.
How did my tent get sticky, and what does that have to do with its ability to withstand water?
Because they are stored moist or too tightly, they have the appearance of being sticky.
If the water resistance has been impaired, there is a significant possibility that the polyurethane coating has been worn away.
Stored Wet
When your tent is stored moist, it might get sticky after a lengthy time of storage. This is one of the causes of sticky tents. As soon as we stop camping, the most convenient thing to do is to put everything into the next trash can, where it will be stored in a haphazard manner until our next expedition. We don’t always take the necessary precautions to guarantee that our equipment is dry and properly packed. When your tent is packed in a wet condition, the moisture that accumulates on its surface has nowhere to go to dissipate.
If this is your condition, the best course of action would be to get it cleaned up as soon as possible.
To clean it, take a soft sponge and some non-detergent soap and work it in.
Stored Too Tight
When your tent was packed moist, it is possible that it became sticky after a lengthy time of storage. We end up our camping trip and decide that the most convenient thing to do is to just toss everything into the next trash can, where it will be stored until our next excursion begins. Our equipment is frequently not appropriately packed since we do not spend the necessary time ensuring that it is dry. In wet conditions, the moisture that accumulates on the outside of your tent has nowhere to escape.
You should clear up the mess as quickly as feasible if the above description applies to your current scenario.
In order to ensure that you don’t miss a single location, spread your tent out entirely, or even pitch it high. It is best to clean it using a soft sponge and a non-detergent soap. You may get a more in-depth guide by visiting the previously mentioned hyperlink.
The Fly’s Waterproofing Degradation
After conducting extensive research on the issue of stickiness across the internet, I came to the conclusion that the deterioration of the PU coating is the most typical cause of the phenomena. Your tent may be sticky if it is fairly old and has been kept for an extended length of time. This is especially true if your tent has been stored for an extended period of time. First and foremost, we must grasp what PU coating is in order to comprehend this problem. Polyurethane is just a synthetic substance that may be found in a variety of forms, the most common of which is liquid.
They did, however, want to keep the ventilation system in place.
It should be noted that the covering will not remain intact indefinitely.
However, if the tent is too old, the natural deterioration process takes over and takes its toll.
How to Fix a Sticky Tent?
I remember being absolutely upset when I first had to deal with my sticky tent because I felt like my money had gone to waste because it was so sticky. I went on a search for a solution and came across various recommendations from folks who had encountered the same problem. Nonetheless, I would state right away that the following proposed methods will not resolve the waterproofing problem in the event that the PU coating has been destroyed. Instead, I’m going to concentrate entirely on the sticky problem for the time being and deal with the weakened water resistance afterwards.
Baby powder is one that I personally suggest because it is inexpensive and somewhat healthy in terms of its ingredients.
I wouldn’t recommend spreading it internally, though, because it has the potential to produce irritating irritations if breathed on a frequent basis.
The powder technique, on the other hand, is mostly appropriate in cases of stickiness caused by PU coating deterioration.
How Can I Restore It’s Water Resistance?
By this point, we’ve just spoken about how to remedy the tent’s sticking issue. However, as previously stated, if the Polyurethane layer has been weakened, this will have no effect on the waterproofing of the product. To restore the desired water resistance, you must first ensure that the PU coating has been removed — this will be detailed in further detail later in this article. After then, you may need to perform many actions in order to recover it.
Before applying any of the following solutions, make sure that you thoroughly clean your tent and allow it to dry completely – dirt traces or dampness will cause the coating process to be significantly slowed or stopped altogether.
Tent Sure
By this point, we’ve just spoken about how to make the tent less sticky. However, as previously stated, if the Polyurethane layer has been weakened, this will have no effect on the waterproofing of the product at all. To restore the desired water resistance, you must first ensure that the PU coating has been removed – this will be detailed in further detail later in this article. After then, you may need to follow additional actions in order to reclaim your possession of the property. Before applying any of the following solutions, make sure that you thoroughly clean your tent and allow it to dry completely – dirt traces or dampness will cause the coating process to be significantly slowed or stopped totally.
Nikwax
Nikwax is another another well-known brand in the realm of waterproofing products. It has improved water repellency while keeping breathability, which is really crucial when it comes to tents, which is something I appreciate about this particular model. If your tent does not allow for enough ventilation, you may find yourself suffering from condensation when camping. I can’t tell you how many times my sleeping bag has become dripping wet because of this exact reason. In contrast to Tent Sure, Nikwax should be sprayed on the exterior of your tent rather than the inside.
Allow it to dry for a couple of minutes to allow the new coating layer to adhere to the surface.
I’ve also conducted some preliminary research on a few common consumer queries regarding this particular product.
When comparing the two types of spray, evaluations revealed that the spray kind is significantly more desired, useful, and simple to use.
How to Pile Off The Current Coat?
First and foremost, it is critical to recognize that removing the leftover Polyurethane will be a time-consuming and difficult operation. When you discover your tent in a sticky state, which you assume is the result of Polyurethane deterioration, it is almost certain that just a portion of the coating has worn away, while the remainder is still intact. If you want to restore your water resistance, you can use the goods indicated above in their current form – it is possible that this is all that is required.
I’ll admit that I’ve never personally used this strategy; nonetheless, a check of forums turned up several instances of the same procedure.
While using protective gloves, just brush the nylon until the solution begins to progressively turn milky in color.
After that, remove the tent and soak it in clean, cold water to ensure that all of the ammonia is wiped away.
If you believe the ammonia is still present, you may want to repeat the washing process several more times to be sure. After that, reproof your tent with Tent Sure or Nikwax, as it is no longer water-resistant in any way, shape, or form.
Should I Buy a New One?
In the first place, it’s crucial to understand that removing the leftover Polyurethane will be a time-consuming and difficult endeavor. A sticky situation in your tent, assumed to be caused by Polyurethane deterioration, almost often indicates that just a portion of the coating has been worn away, with the remainder remaining intact. Try utilizing the goods described above in their current form if you want to restore your water resistance; it’s not clear if this is essential. You should still delete all of the PU remnants before proceeding any further, if you want to be extra thorough.
- In order to prepare the tent, you need first soak it in a hot ammonia/water solution for several hours (about a quart of 10 percent ammonia in about 3 gallons of hot water for about 10 min).
- This method may remove the color or logo off your tent’s surface; nevertheless, the overall quality of your tent should not be diminished.
- After a couple of minutes, remove it from the oven and place it on a rack to dry.
- If your tent has become completely non-water resistant, you should reproof it with Tent Sure or Nikwax.
Conclusions
There are three primary explanations for the stickiness of your tent. First and foremost, it is possible that this is the case when the product is stored in a damp environment. As a result, water was unable to evaporate, resulting in a sticky sensation and maybe mold growth as a result. If this is the case, you should properly clean the area and allow it to air dry outside. Another reason is to pack the tent as tightly as possible – perhaps by utilizing the original sack that came with the tent.
Use a mesh sack or fold it loosely the next time you pack it up to avoid tangling the contents.
Some products, such as Nikwax or Tent Sure, help to increase the water resistance of textiles.
I hope my essay was helpful in answering your questions.
How can I revive my tent’s super-sticky rain fly?
When you join up for Outside+ today, you’ll receive a $50 discount off an eligible $100 purchase at the Outside Shop, where you’ll discover a variety of brand-name goods handpicked by our gear editors. Hmmm. This is a challenging task. There isn’t any evidence of mildew on the tent, is there? Was it kept in a tight container for an extended length of time? A combination of moisture, heat, and tight packing may have led to a slight deterioration of the polyurethane coating on the fly, causing it to become semi-liquid, which is causing the fly to adhere to the fly box.
It has been brought to my attention that this was not unusual in older tents, particularly ones built a decade or more ago. This might be the case if there is a highly homogeneous stickiness throughout the surface.
Black Diamond Lighthouse
When you join up for Outside+ today, you’ll receive $50 off a purchase of $100 or more at the Outside Shop, where you’ll discover a variety of brand-name goods handpicked by our gear editors. Hmmm. The problem presented here is rather fascinating! The tent appears to be free of mildew, but is it? For a lengthy period of time, was it kept in tight quarters? A combination of moisture, temperature, and tight packing may have led to a slight deterioration of the polyurethane coating on the fly, causing it to become semi-liquid, which is causing the fly to adhere to the fly box.
This might be the case if there is a highly homogeneous stickiness throughout.
Help, please. How to fix a sticky tent?
And then there’s this from their frequently asked questions: (so maybe it can be treated) What does it imply when the seams of my tent come apart? Your tent sticking together indicates that the waterproofing on your tent is beginning to wear out and needs to be replaced. It is during this process that the natural components of the waterproofing begin to break down, which is what produces the stickiness. If this occurs, please refer to the following question for advice on how to re-waterproof your tent in the event that this occurs.
- The use of Aquaseal reg; Polycoat for re-waterproofing your tent is highly recommended by us.
- Use the product in a well-ventilated location.
- 3.Apply the product evenly with a medium-bristle brush.
- Polycoat should be applied to the outside of your tent in order to achieve this result.
- It may be necessary to apply two applications in high traffic areas (such as tent flooring).
- For the record, HYOH.
Why Does My Nylon Tent Feel Sticky
One of the most prevalent reasons of a sticky tent is a breakdown in the waterproof coating applied by the manufacturer during manufacturing. After drying, the liquid hardens into a waterproof coating that is usually also heat resistant, and it is this layer that protects your tent from the elements while yet enabling the nylon or polyester to breathe.
Why is my tent so sticky?
Moisture, heat, or any combination of these factors might be causing the problem.
Before you wipe off the polyurethane coating and reapply it, you’ll want to check your tent to make sure there aren’t any holes or other concerns (which is unlikely considering that it has been sitting unused for a while).
How do you fix sticky rain flies?
So here’s what you should do: Fill a large bucket or plastic tub halfway with warm water and a little amount of Dawn soap, then swish the fly about in it for a few minutes at a time. After that, rinse it completely and allow it to air dry away from the sun. Perhaps there is some residue from the tree or something else causing it to stick. If it doesn’t work, you’ve got a problem on your hands.
How do you remove mold from a nylon tent?
CLEAN. According to how deeply the mold has been established into the nylon or canvas tent fabric, you may be able to remove the mold with merely hot, soapy water and a sponge. As a starting point, we propose that you wash it with water and a specialist cleaning. This will have no effect on the performance or water repellency of your tent.
How do you clean a nylon tent?
Remove any debris from the tent by putting it up and cleaning it down with a light cleanser (such as liquid hand soap and lukewarm water solution). Rinse well and allow to dry fully before using. Never use detergent, washing machines, or dryers on your tent since they might cause damage to the protective covering and seams of the tent.
Can you wash a tent in washing machine?
Tent and fabric seams can be torn apart by washing machines, which can also melt textiles and delaminate waterproofing. Even while your tent may be washed in a front-loading washer, it is nearly always preferable to wash it by hand instead. Hand wash and rinse the tent with a sponge and non-detergent soap, being careful not to scratch it.
Can you wash a nylon tent?
A nylon tent should never be washed in a washing machine, ever! The stretching and abrasion of nylon tents will cause the coating on the floor and fly to be destroyed. When you have a small tent at home, you might wash it by hand in your bathtub, assuming the tent is not too enormous. Use only a little amount of detergent.
How do you remove sticky residue from a tent?
Use a powder detergent and a mild cycle to wash your tent in order to avoid this situation in future. After washing, let it to air dry for a few hours before using it. To waterproof the outside of the house, add some brush-on or spray-on waterproofing and let it dry again. Pack it loosely in a mesh bag or hang it to dry for long-term storage.
Is PU coating toxic?
What consequences does polyurethane have on the health of those who come into contact with it? When a polyol reacts with a diisocyanate, a polyurethane is formed as a result of the chemical process. As soon as the chemical interaction between its constituents has occurred, the outcome is a polyurethane foam that is fully inert and non-toxic to people.
Is PU coating harmful?
It is well-known that polyurethane, a petrochemical resin containing isocyanates, is a respiratory irritant. Polyurethane that has not been properly cured might cause respiratory difficulties such as asthma. Individuals with respiratory disorders, such as children, are particularly vulnerable to the harmful compounds included in polyurethane.
Can you sleep in a Mouldy tent?
Yes, it is possible to sleep in a moldy tent; however, it is not a pleasant experience, and you should remove as much mold as possible before sleeping inside.
While mold spores are not good for your health, if you clean up as much as you can and you have no other choice, a night or two shouldn’t be too bad to survive.
How do I keep my tent dry inside?
Condensation may be prevented most effectively by properly ventilating your tent and decreasing the interior humidity of your tent by fostering sufficient airflow. Examine your tent for low and high venting options, and then open them to allow the damp air to escape from the interior.
Can you clean a tent with vinegar?
In the case of tents that are not too filthy To begin washing the tent, fill the spray bottle halfway with water and vinegar and shake it up vigorously. Spray the entire tent with a 50/50 vinegar solution to keep it from being soiled. After an hour or two, scrub the stain away with a soft brush or sponge that has been soaked in the soap solution.
Why is my rain fly sticky?
Q: Why is the fly on my tent (rainfly) so sticky? According to some theories, the combination of wetness, tight packing, and heat causes the polyurethane coating on the rain fly to deteriorate, become semi-liquid, and become sticky. Alternately, something sticky may have been left on it from the previous time you used it.
How do you remove waterproofing from a tent?
Is it possible that my tent fly (rainfly) is stuck to my tent wall? That may be due to a combination of wetness, tight packing, and heat that causes the polyurethane coating on the rain fly to deteriorate, become semi-liquid, and adhere to the rain fly. Alternately, something sticky must have been left on it from the previous time you used it.
How do you clean rain flies?
Make a minimal cleaning effort. Make use of a non-abrasive sponge, cold water, and a non-detergent soap to clean your windows. Gently clean filthy areas with a soft brush, paying particular attention to covered sections of the floor and flies. Wash your clothes using mild dish soap and water instead of strong home cleaners such as bleach and stain removers or laundry presoaking solutions.
Does PU coating wear off?
It’s possible that it will wash out after that. This is a feature of all of the earlier PU coatings: they will disintegrate when exposed to water or moisture.
Can you machine wash inner tent?
You should never machine wash a tent, especially if you don’t want to risk having to purchase a new tent as a result of the washing. Top-loading washing machines are particularly hazardous to your tent’s structure. Tent materials, mesh inners, and seams can be stretched and torn by the agitation in a top-loading washer.
Do tents lose their waterproofing?
Here in the United Kingdom, the weather is never completely predictable. But after a time, this coating will begin to wear away and will need to be replaced with tent waterproofing spray – if you don’t, you and your belongings may find yourselves waking up wet after an overnight downpour!
My tent is sticky (no smartass responses please 🙂
- I have a Moss tent that is 20 years old. It had been stored aside for several years. The tent, and especially the bags, are now extremely adherent to one another and difficult to remove. The tent works perfectly well, is still waterproof, and hasn’t poisoned me with fumes or anything, but it’s a pain to put together and take apart every time. Anything I can do to resolve the situation without causing damage to the tent
- If so, have you tried gently hand-washing it in your bathtub with a little amount of Woolite or Dreft
- Repeat the aforementioned wash procedure on it, allowing it to soak for a few minutes before re-waterproofing it
- Dreft (in POWDER form!) would be my recommendation. Soak it for a while, rinse it twice or three times just to make sure and get all of the suds out, let it dry mainly before pitching it to dry completely. Moreover, wash everything individually, including the fly, tent, footprint, and so on. Due to the fact that liquid detergent clogs pores, it is not recommended for use with ‘breathable’ fabrics such as those used in outdoor clothes, tents, and sleeping bags (primarily nylon). I hope this is helpful
- May the sticky substance be a result of the seamtape they used? Also, if the tent has screened logos or other graphics on it, do they appear to be flaking away? I would think that after 20 years, it is time to replace the tent
- Washing the tent with powdered detergent is an excellent method to keep the tent clean. I would set up the tent and allow it to dry before applying unscented talcum powder on the smooth PU covering of the tent. Make use of a rag to avoid applying too much product. This was done using a Walrus Starstreme XV, and it worked perfectly every time. If at all possible, avoid storing your tent rolled up or folded after you have finished camping. If you have the space, such as a basement, you may pitch the tent or put it inside out over a couple of clotheslines to dry. YMMV
- I have an ancient Eureka that developed this condition after being left in its bag for an extended period of time. It’s only that the silicone on the inside of the cloth is adhering to the inside of the fabric. I’ve been attempting to utilize the tent a little more frequently lately, and the situation has improved a little. It’s been hanging inside out for a while now, but I haven’t done anything with it in the last couple of months because I purchased a new tent that actually fits in my saddlebag (poles and everything)
- BIG -EandStasher1 such like this
- My MSR Huba Huba is a fantastic tent, but it is also extremely sticky to the touch. If the material feels like it’s coated with bee’s wax, it probably is
- I’ve had this problem with the rain fly on some of my tents while setting them up beneath a tree
- I came across this on GORP: () Tom, please accept my condolences. I’m sorry to have to notify you that your old dome is most likely no longer functional. The tent may have been clean and dry when it was packed, but ambient moisture may have caused some mildew to develop on the coating after it was packed. More than likely, the stickiness is the result of long-term storage in a warm environment. It’s important to realize that significant advances have been achieved in the science of synthetics while working with coated textiles. In certain cases, early versions of products may not live up to their reputation or claims compared to what is now available. There are a few things you may try first before giving it the heave-ho. One of these is a wash recommended by the people at Rainy Pass Repair and Maintenance (recipe follows). Even as a last resort, you might attempt an application of a recoat solution from Kenyon Consumer Products. While there are no assurances, the cost of a new tent is far less. Tent Wash and Mildew Remover for Rainy Pass Phase I consists of the following steps: 1 gallon of hot water and 1/2 cup Lysol make a great cleaning solution. Set up your tent, then wash in the mixture with a sponge and allow it to dry fully before putting it away. Phase II consists of the following steps: One gallon of boiling water should contain one cup salt and one cup lemon juice (no pulp!). Tent should be washed with this mixture and allowed to dry. Before storing the tent, thoroughly rinse it with fresh water and allow it to dry fully. Another entry from the Sea to Summit blog series (great Aussie company that sells outdoor accessories) PU COATINGS ON TENT FABRIC IN SOFT OR STICKY FORM. This is the only remedy available for the problem of softening of PU coatings with age that has been identified so far. If the fabric layers have become ‘blocked’ together, carefully separate them. It is conceivable that this will not be achievable without causing some coating damage. Set your household iron to the cotton setting, not the steam setting. Working carefully over the whole fabric with a piece of clean Xerox paper (80gsm or heavier) always between the iron and the cloth, iron the fabric. Continue to move about to avoid overheating. Ironing will harden the coating and force moisture out of the coating. Using Seamgrip®, it is possible to repair or replace sections of the coating that have been damaged or removed (for best results, hold the fabric up to the light). If they are particularly large, this may not be feasible. Finalize the process by spraying the coated face of the fabric with a silicon or Teflon-based water repellent, regardless of whether you used Seamgrip or not. Your local outdoor retailer will offer a product that will meet your needs. Store the tent unrolled with the coated sides facing out to minimize self contact, as you should always do.
rboettposser noob 205
On November 5, 2002, I became a member. Oddometer:2,497 nwagood ideas are located at nwa. What about a tent that has a strong cheese scent to it? In my opinion, it suffered some sort of heat damage while being stored in a garage in Florida for a lengthy period of time. It’s a eureka / timberline that’s been around for 20 years. Is it possible that the heat caused it to malfunction in some way? Cheese? Serve it with a glass of wine and you’re all set. Actually, I would suppose that smelling like cheese indicates the presence of mildew.
It’s possible.
Even though it’s a Moss (expensive and really fine), I still enjoy it a great deal.
Increasing the frequency with which you use the tent is usually a good idea in general.
Once it’s pitched, spray the rain fly with scotchguard to protect it.
If you’re looking for a Mountain Hardwear brand, they strongly discourage you from doing so.
After washing, it doesn’t attach to anything at all.
Although, given its age, there is probably not much PU coating remaining, it is still a fairly durable product in spite of this.
Is it by chance that it’s an Outfitter?
That, and resealing all of the seams, to be precise.
It is possible that old nylon coated with urethane will become sticky as it degrades and begins to delaminate as it degrades.
A!
The Losi 3P may be found in the most recent REI Catalogue.
Eureka informed me that the material degrades and that there is little that can be done to prevent it.
The key to extending the life of your items is to pack them very loosely in separate bags and store them in a cool, dry location from the beginning. Under your bed is usually the ideal spot to spread out your belongings. To be honest with yourself, you actually desire a new tent in the first place.
