How to Waterproof a Tent

A tent helps protect you from the elements when you're camping. However, even a new tent can have leaks because factory waterproofing simply cannot cover every inch of the surface and seams. The best way to ensure that your camping experience will be dry is to waterproof your tent before you venture out. By taking the extra time to waterproof the tent before your camping trip, you'll be more comfortable and enjoy the experience much more.

Things You'll Need

  • Seam sealer
  • Waterproofing spray
  • Household disinfectant cleaner
  • Sponge
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Instructions

  1. Prepare the Tent

    • 1

      Set up the tent in a ventilated area, preferably outside on a warm day with low humidity. Place it on a dry surface.

    • 2

      Clean the tent, inside and out, with a household disinfectant cleaner to get rid of dirt and mold. Use a wet sponge to scrub tougher areas to clean. Focus especially on seams and zippers to ensure removal of any embedded dirt. Don't forget to clean the bottom of the tent.

    • 3

      Allow the tent to dry completely. Flip or turn the tent as needed so that the bottom and all surfaces can dry.

    Waterproof the Tent

    • 4

      Apply seam sealer to all inside seams, being especially diligent in corners and around zippers.

    • 5

      Apply the waterproofing spray to the outside of the tent. Use smooth, overlapping strokes in one direction to ensure complete coverage.

    • 6

      Repeat Step 2 on the inside of the tent once the seam sealer is completely dry.

    • 7

      Let the tent dry completely before packing.