Before storing a tent or awning for winter, remove loose dirt, clean it using products approved for its fabric, let every part dry completely, check for damage and pack it according to the manufacturer's instructions. Store it somewhere dry, away from damp and excessive heat.
After a wet UK camping season, it is tempting to put the bag away and deal with it in spring. A little care now gives you the chance to spot repairs and avoids leaving damp fabric packed for months. This guide applies to camping tents, caravan awnings and drive-away awnings, but your model's care instructions always come first.
1. Check the care instructions before cleaning
Find the instructions for your exact model and fabric. Polyester, coated fabrics, cotton and polycotton can have different care requirements. Check what the manufacturer permits for cleaning, stain treatment, reproofing and storage. A cleaner labelled for tents is not automatically suitable for every tent.
Gather a soft brush or sponge, clean water, a suitable cleaner if needed, and enough space to spread out the fabric. Avoid using household detergents, bleach, pressure washers or machine washing unless the manufacturer expressly permits them.
2. Remove loose dirt and clean gently
Empty the tent or awning and remove loose grass, leaves and grit. Clean the groundsheet separately where practical, so dirt is not transferred to the main fabric. Brush away loose dirt gently and follow the manufacturer's directions for any remaining marks.
If a specialist cleaner is appropriate, check the label against your fabric and test an inconspicuous area first. Follow its dilution, contact-time and rinsing instructions rather than guessing.
Our Fenwicks Awning & Tent Cleaner 1 Litre Trigger Spray listing describes use on synthetic and colour-fast canvas fabrics. Its listed directions call for applying the cleaner, allowing one to two minutes without letting it dry, gently agitating and rinsing thoroughly. Confirm compatibility with your tent or awning before use.
You can also view Fabsil Tent + Awning Cleaner. Check the product label and your equipment's care instructions before choosing a cleaner. Current prices and availability are shown on the product pages.
3. Dry everything completely before long-term storage
Drying is the step not to rush. Check the flysheet or roof, inner tent, groundsheet, seams, corners, straps and storage bag. A dry-looking outer surface does not mean folded layers or seams are dry.
If you have to pack up wet at the campsite, treat that as temporary transport, not winter storage. Unpack as soon as practical and spread or pitch the equipment in a suitable ventilated space, following its instructions. Give moisture trapped between layers time to escape.
Do not place fabric against radiators or use concentrated heat to speed things up. Choose a safe drying space and keep it away from heaters and open flames.
4. Inspect the fabric and fittings
Before packing, check seams, zips, guy lines, pegging points and groundsheet areas for wear or damage. Look over poles, joints, pegs and any air-system components using the manufacturer's maintenance guidance.
Clean and dry pegs and poles, and keep sharp items separate from fabric. Make a note of missing parts or repairs now, rather than discovering them on your first trip next season. For air awnings and tents, follow the model-specific deflation and packing instructions.
5. Reproof only when appropriate
Cleaning and waterproofing are different jobs. Do not assume every tent needs reproofing each autumn. Follow your manufacturer's advice on whether treatment is needed and which product is compatible with the fabric and coating.
If treatment is recommended, follow the treatment's preparation, application and drying instructions fully before putting the equipment away. Do not assume one reproofer suits synthetic, cotton and polycotton equipment equally.
6. Pack and choose a dry storage location
Pack only when all parts are completely dry. Use the supplied bag or the storage method recommended by the manufacturer, and do not force the fabric into a bag with sharp accessories.
Choose a dry storage location protected from leaks, damp, pests and excessive heat. A shed or garage may be convenient, but check its conditions rather than assuming it is suitable. Keep equipment away from damp floors and check it periodically over winter.
Your winter storage checklist
- Read the care instructions for your exact model.
- Remove loose dirt and clean with compatible products where needed.
- Rinse as directed and dry every component completely.
- Inspect fabric, seams, zips, poles, pegs and guy lines.
- Arrange repairs and replace missing parts.
- Reproof only if advised, using a compatible treatment.
- Pack according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Store somewhere dry and check it during winter.
Frequently asked questions
Can I store a tent or awning when it is slightly damp?
Do not put it into long-term storage damp. If you pack wet after a trip, unpack and dry it as soon as practical. Check seams, corners and the storage bag as well as the main fabric.
Can I use washing-up liquid to clean my tent?
Do not assume household detergents are compatible with the fabric or coating. Follow the tent manufacturer's cleaning guidance and use an approved cleaner where needed.
Can I keep my tent in a garage over winter?
Only if the location meets the manufacturer's storage guidance and stays dry, protected and free from excessive heat. Check for damp, leaks and pests, and keep the bag away from damp floors.
Should I reproof my awning before storing it?
Only where the manufacturer recommends it or the fabric needs an appropriate treatment. Check compatibility and allow the treatment to dry fully before packing.
How do I deal with mould on a tent?
Ask the manufacturer for a fabric-specific cleaning method before applying a treatment. Avoid guessing with bleach or strong chemicals. Cleaning may not remove existing staining or repair damaged fabric.
Do air tents need different winter storage care?
The same cleaning and complete-drying principles apply, but deflation, valves, air tubes and packing need the instructions for your exact model. Do not substitute generic advice for those requirements.
Get ready for next season
A clean, dry and checked tent or awning is a better starting point for your next camping trip. If you are unsure which care product to choose, contact World of Camping with the make, model and fabric details so we can help you find the relevant product information.
