This current "ecologically sound water based" version works just as good as the older solvent based version did, but takes longer to dry.
Don't even think of putting this on your tent fabric without washing the tent first. That would be like painting a dirty house. It won't stick and will just peel off.
Let me also point out for those who have never heard of washing a tent. You wash them just like cars, houses, clothes and your body. That is, with soap and water. Use only the amount of soap needed to ionize the dirt, waxes and oil particles and make them soluble in water, not a "generous amount" as suggested on most soap containers.
Dishwashing detergent is designed to do this very well, especially with the oils. If you have never used dishwashing liquid in your washing machine and don't want to start now, then get after it in the bathtub! Put it all in there, get in, and stomp up and down with your feet. (Clean feet is a side benefit.) Or you could do the whole business in a wash tub outside in the first place.
You then take the tent outside and rinse it very thoroughly with a water hose and hang it up to dry, then coat what is needed, but not the breathable fabric part.
If you have never done this, you have either 1)not lived long enough to own a tent long enough to need this, or 2)you have not used your tent to it's maximum and you need to get outside more often! One more reason to go camp more often.
Enjoy!
John
Sunlight and a weak bleach solution. Try a garden sprayer, well rinsed, and diluted household bleach (the type with about 6% sodium hypochlorite). Try about a quarter cup per gallon of water, spray on and let dry. If the mildew doesn't come off with light scrubbing, increase dosage. Dry well in the sun.
John Kidd
Comments or suggestions Email always welcome.
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