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I love winter. I love adventure. And I have found for years that these two are very compatible. Clear blue sky, fresh air, wind and millions of brilliant star at night have never disappointed me. But the first thing that I and all adventurers should do is to check the implements and repair it if there is the damage.
Tent is one of the most important accessory to protect us from windy, drizzle and dew when we take break after enjoy adventure all day. To prolong its useful life, we should know how to maintenance it.
Cleaning
Generally, you just only shake it out. But, ocassionally it needs cleaning. Remember that tent cloth is very fragile, therefore don't put it in the washing machine or dryer.
True steps.
1. Turn the tent inside out to throw off all debris . Then, rub it thoroughly with damped cloth to get rid of all dirt.
2. Pitch your tent and clean its walls both in and outside with soap. After that, sponge out for 2-3 times until soap is gone away. Don't submerge tent in water or rub waterproof coatings.
3. Use a non-serrated butter knife to remove the sap carefully because the knife can cut your tent fabric. Avoid using solvent. For gooey sap, use tissue and pinch off the sap carefully. To remove the sap completely, mix glycerin and water in equal parts . Then apply the mixture to the sap, and leave it for a while. The sap should be rubbed off easily.
4. If you find a musty odor or small cross-shaped spots on your tent cloth, those present the mildew formation. To remove these, mix 1 cup salt, 1 cup concentrates lemon juice, and 1 gallon of hot water. Then rub the solution into all visible mildew.Finally, place your tent where it can touch the sun and leave it to dry. |
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| Maintenance
Have you ever known that small grit or tiny sand are the dangerous enemy to the tent zipper ? Therefore, you need the assistant like paraffin wax or bar of soap. These will help to lubricate your tent zipper. Avoid using the petroleum products. They will unsmooth your zipper.
In addition, remember that tent seams are not always waterproof. Thus, you should seam seal them before out in the heavy rain.
Storage
Never leave your tent in the damp area . This will cause of mildew and bad odor. So, expose your tent to the sun every time you finish your activity.
Although poles come with tent, it is not necessary to keep them together. Pack tent poles in old pillowcases or a canvas bag to prevent accidental punctures to tent fabric.
There is a way to protect your tent from dampness, pack it loosely. Don't keep your tent in a plastic bag or airtight container.
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Tip & Technique 
Although I am an adventurer, I have never be homesick. Why? Nothing special. I just take my home with me everywhere, that's all.
