{"id":49615,"date":"2020-06-28T00:30:27","date_gmt":"2020-06-28T00:30:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/laidbackcamping.com\/?p=49615"},"modified":"2023-10-13T12:40:50","modified_gmt":"2023-10-13T19:40:50","slug":"fix-sticky-tent","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/fix-sticky-tent\/","title":{"rendered":"Why A Tent Gets Sticky and How To Fix It"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Having a sticky tent or rain fly can be quite frustrating to set up. Whether you are working on your own or with help of a fellow camper, having to pull apart the panels because they are tacky and stuck together is a pain. This makes the whole process a lot more complicated and time consuming than it has to be.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>A tent or rainfly becomes sticky because the polyurethane coating that was originally applied to the surface as waterproofing has broken down. The waterproofing of a tent can be fixed if you gently clean the tent to remove the &#8220;stickiness&#8221; then apply waterproofing to the outside.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/how-long-do-nylon-tents-last\/\">Tents can last<\/a> a long time if treated right, and being able to repair or fix any issues can save you money and possibly your next camping trip. Check out these ways to make sure your tent is ready for your next camping trip.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"684\" src=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/sticky-tent-1024x684.webp\" alt=\"sticky tent\" class=\"wp-image-49622\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.4970760233918128;width:657px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/sticky-tent-1024x684.webp 1024w, https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/sticky-tent-300x200.webp 300w, https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/sticky-tent-768x513.webp 768w, https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/sticky-tent-600x401.webp 600w, https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/sticky-tent.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_63 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-66360bb06023c\" class=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-label\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #5d7772;color:#5d7772\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #5d7772;color:#5d7772\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\"  id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-66360bb06023c\" checked aria-label=\"Toggle\" \/><nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/fix-sticky-tent\/#What_Causes_A_Tent_to_Become_Sticky\" title=\"What Causes A Tent to Become Sticky\">What Causes A Tent to Become Sticky<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/fix-sticky-tent\/#PU_Delamination\" title=\"PU Delamination\">PU Delamination<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/fix-sticky-tent\/#How_to_Remove_The_Stickiness_From_A_Tent\" title=\"How to Remove The Stickiness From A Tent\">How to Remove The Stickiness From A Tent<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/fix-sticky-tent\/#Cleaners_for_Washing_a_Tent\" title=\"Cleaners for Washing a Tent\">Cleaners for Washing a Tent<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/fix-sticky-tent\/#Waterproofing_a_Tent_and_Rainfly\" title=\"Waterproofing a Tent and Rainfly\">Waterproofing a Tent and Rainfly<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/fix-sticky-tent\/#Sealing_the_Seams\" title=\"Sealing the Seams\">Sealing the Seams<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/fix-sticky-tent\/#Preventing_Your_Tent_From_Becoming_Sticky\" title=\"Preventing Your Tent From Becoming Sticky\">Preventing Your Tent From Becoming Sticky<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/fix-sticky-tent\/#Closing_Thoughts\" title=\"Closing Thoughts\">Closing Thoughts<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Causes_A_Tent_to_Become_Sticky\"><\/span>What Causes A Tent to Become Sticky<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The answer to your sticky situation isn\u2019t always the intuitive one. One of the most common causes of a sticky tent is the waterproof coating from the manufacturer breaking down.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Most waterproofing is made of polyurethane, which is essentially liquid plastic. The liquid dries into a waterproof layer that is generally heat resistant as well, and this layer is what protects your tent from the elements while still allowing the nylon or polyester to breathe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"PU_Delamination\"><\/span>PU Delamination<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As your tent ages, the polymers that make up polyurethane start to dissociate from each other in a process called delamination. This makes the coating sticky and can make your tent a hassle to set up. Not to mention there can also be an odor that comes along with it, and no one wants to sleep in a smelly tent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Age isn\u2019t the only thing that can eat up your tent\u2019s coating &#8211; not drying it out before you store it can also cause your tent to stick. That\u2019s because when your tent is stored damp the water molecules react with the polyurethane coating and cause it to delaminate. The water isn\u2019t able to evaporate away, and your tent pays the price.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can also get mold, mildew, and other big issues from storing your tent while wet or damp so you should always try to dry it out first. If that\u2019s not possible, air it out as soon as you can when you get to your destination.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"681\" src=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/Wet-Tent-1024x681.webp\" alt=\"Wet tent\" class=\"wp-image-49624\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.5036710719530102;width:690px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/Wet-Tent-1024x681.webp 1024w, https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/Wet-Tent-300x200.webp 300w, https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/Wet-Tent-768x511.webp 768w, https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/Wet-Tent-600x399.webp 600w, https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/Wet-Tent.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">ID 101467856 \u00a9 Aleksey Sverbeev | Dreamstime.com<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Off-Gassing<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the other causes of polyurethane delamination is one you may never have thought of &#8211; rolling up your tent too tight. Just like how water molecules can\u2019t evaporate from a damp tent that is stored, gas molecules from the polyurethane coating may not be able to evaporate if your tent is too tight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The process of off-gassing occurs with almost everything around you. Your furniture, your electronics, your house, your car (think new-car smell) all release gas molecules that make them smell the way they do.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In many cases you can\u2019t smell them because the gas is able to easily evaporate and there\u2019s not enough of it to cause a strong odor. In the case of a tightly rolled tent, the gas molecules can\u2019t escape and they not only smell bad, they can also cause the polyurethane to delaminate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The trapped gas can also be bad for your health, since the tent coating off-gasses molecules from a type of material called plasticizers that are harmful if inhaled. For&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>such an easy problem to avoid you\u2019re better off just loosely packing your tent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Remove_The_Stickiness_From_A_Tent\"><\/span>How to Remove The Stickiness From A Tent<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Maybe you forgot to air your tent out when you got home or it\u2019s been around the block a few times and the coating is starting to stick. Before you go spending the big bucks on a new one, you can try the following tricks to unstick your tent and rain fly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Baby Powder<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If your only goal is to make the tent and rain fly less sticky, then you could achieve that by spreading baby powder all over the material. The powder will keep the polyurethane polymers from sticking to each other and let the material pass over itself easily.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While this will get you unstuck, it won\u2019t do anything for your damaged polyurethane coating. This means you\u2019re going to have a bad time if it rains on your next camping trip no matter how easy your tent setup goes. If you\u2019re wanting to fix it up right, you have to start by removing the old polyurethane coat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Washing Machine<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the easiest ways to get the old waterproofing off is to use a washing machine. The polyurethane is going to be flaking off as the cycle goes so you probably want to do this in a laundromat instead of at home, but all you need to do is run the tent through the cold wash cycle about three times with a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B005BXOZAC?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">mild powdered detergent<\/a>. Once your tent is all washed up you\u2019ll want to let it air dry.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"aawp\">\n\n            \n            \n<div class=\"aawp-product aawp-product--horizontal aawp-product--css-adjust-image-large\"  data-aawp-product-asin=\"B005BXOZAC\" data-aawp-product-id=\"13673\" data-aawp-tracking-id=\"lifeonroute02-20\" data-aawp-product-title=\"Arm & Hammer Plus OxiClean Powder Laundry Detergent Fresh Scent 45 Loads 3.48 Pound  Pack of 1  - Package May Vary\">\n\n    \n    <div class=\"aawp-product__thumb\">\n        <a class=\"aawp-product__image-link\"\n           href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B005BXOZAC?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"Arm & Hammer Plus OxiClean Powder Laundry Detergent, Fresh Scent, 45 Loads, 3.48 Pound (Pack of 1) -...\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aawp-product__image\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/61oWhkl5CCL.jpg\" alt=\"Arm & Hammer Plus OxiClean Powder Laundry Detergent, Fresh Scent, 45 Loads, 3.48 Pound (Pack of 1) -...\"  \/>\n        <\/a>\n\n            <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"aawp-product__content\">\n        <a class=\"aawp-product__title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B005BXOZAC?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"Arm & Hammer Plus OxiClean Powder Laundry Detergent, Fresh Scent, 45 Loads, 3.48 Pound (Pack of 1) -...\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\">\n            Arm & Hammer Plus OxiClean Powder Laundry Detergent, Fresh Scent, 45 Loads, 3.48 Pound (Pack of 1) -...        <\/a>\n        <div class=\"aawp-product__description\">\n            <ul><li>Fresh scent<\/li><li>42 loads<\/li><li>Unique scent<\/li><\/ul>        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"aawp-product__footer\">\n\n        <div class=\"aawp-product__pricing\">\n            \n            \n            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/gp\/prime\/?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"Amazon Prime\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"aawp-check-prime\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/aawp\/assets\/img\/icon-check-prime.svg\" height=\"16\" width=\"55\" alt=\"Amazon Prime\" \/><\/a>        <\/div>\n\n                <a class=\"aawp-button aawp-button--buy aawp-button aawp-button--amazon\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B005BXOZAC?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"Check Latest Deals\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\">Check Latest Deals<\/a>\n            <\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n    \n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<p>Then you should be able to use a soft-bristled brush to scrape off any of the remaining delaminated coating. At this point you\u2019ll be able to see the old coating flaking where it\u2019s still attached, and once you\u2019ve removed the old polyurethane you can use a new sealant on the outside of the tent and rain fly to make them waterproof once again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Hand Wash<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If a laundromat isn\u2019t an option and you don\u2019t want to chance it in your own washing machine, you can always break out the elbow grease and get to scrubbing. Soak the tent in warm, soapy water in your bathtub, and use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub off the coating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Once you\u2019ve finished scrubbing off the old polyurethane you\u2019ll want to use cold water to rinse both the polyurethane flakes and the soap off of your tent. It may take multiple rinses to get everything clean but once it is you can let the tent air dry. If the bag and rain fly are also sticky, repeat the process with them. Once all of the pieces are dried then you can move on to resealing everything.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Cleaners_for_Washing_a_Tent\"><\/span>Cleaners for Washing a Tent<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are several different options to consider when deciding on the best cleaner for your tent. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B005BXOZAC?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Powder detergent<\/a> is going to be your best bet because it is effective and non-abrasive. Liquid detergent can also be used, but it\u2019s going to clog the pores in the fabric and cause other issues. Personally, I\u2019d stick to the powder.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Water and vinegar is another option but your tent won\u2019t smell the best afterwards, and the same goes for ammonia. With all of the cleaners you run the risk of discoloring the fabric, but ammonia is especially likely to change your tent\u2019s color.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you use something like ammonia or vinegar you\u2019ll want to make sure that all of the cleaner is thoroughly rinsed out after you get the old coating off, and it\u2019s probably best to wear gloves no matter what cleaner you choose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For the best ways to clean off every day dirt and grime while keeping your tent looking and performing at its best check out our post on <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/keep-tent-clean-while-camping\/\" >How To Keep Your Tent Clean While Camping<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Waterproofing_a_Tent_and_Rainfly\"><\/span>Waterproofing a Tent and Rainfly<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Once your tent is scrubbed, rinsed, and air dried, you\u2019re ready to put a new coat of waterproofing on it. Tent Sure is one popular product you can try, and it also goes by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B00MAZJJDW?tag=lifeonroute02-20,aps,177&amp;sr=8-3&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=laidbackcamping-20&amp;linkId=99c3f9c4a34feee6b6c5693d11973dbf&amp;language=en_US\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">SEAM GRIP +TF<\/a>. This polyurethane-based product sprays right on the tent and dries to form a new protective layer.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<a  data-aawp-product-asin=\"B00MAZJJDW\" data-aawp-product-id=\"13687\" data-aawp-tracking-id=\"lifeonroute02-20\" data-aawp-product-title=\"Gear Aid Seam Grip TF Tent Fabric Sealer for Waterproofing Clear 4 fl oz\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B00MAZJJDW?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"Gear Aid Seam Grip TF Tent Fabric Sealer for Waterproofing, Clear, 4 fl oz\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/31HYnDhxVVL.jpg\" alt=\"Gear Aid Seam Grip TF Tent Fabric Sealer for Waterproofing, Clear, 4 fl oz\" class=\"aligncenter\" \/><\/a>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><a  data-aawp-product-asin=\"B00MAZJJDW\" data-aawp-product-id=\"13687\" data-aawp-tracking-id=\"lifeonroute02-20\" data-aawp-product-title=\"Gear Aid Seam Grip TF Tent Fabric Sealer for Waterproofing Clear 4 fl oz\" class=\"aawp-button aawp-button--buy aawp-button aawp-button--amazon\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B00MAZJJDW?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"Check Latest Deals\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\">Check Latest Deals<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B002XZTNFS?tag=lifeonroute02-20,aps,179&amp;sr=8-5&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=laidbackcamping-20&amp;linkId=14bf65ca55a85bacb705cb00f0b6e9ae&amp;language=en_US\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Nikwax Tent &amp; Gear<\/a> is a product that provides water and UV protection to your tent fabric while leaving your tent breathable &#8211; a good thing to have to avoid condensation buildup. It also comes in a spray that you just coat the outside with, or you can also get it as a liquid that you use a rag to apply. It\u2019s not polyurethane based, but that\u2019s part of why it\u2019s more breathable and it still keeps the water out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<a  data-aawp-product-asin=\"B002XZTNFS\" data-aawp-product-id=\"13674\" data-aawp-tracking-id=\"lifeonroute02-20\" data-aawp-product-title=\"Nikwax Tent & Gear Tent & Gear Solarproof 500ml Spray Waterproofing and UV Protector Rain Protector Restores DWR Water Repellency on Outdoor Fabric Rain Fly Canvas Backpacks\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B002XZTNFS?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"Nikwax Tent & Gear, Tent & Gear Solarproof, 500ml, Spray Waterproofing and UV Protector, Rain...\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/418KijC8WdL.jpg\" alt=\"Nikwax Tent & Gear, Tent & Gear Solarproof, 500ml, Spray Waterproofing and UV Protector, Rain...\" class=\"aligncenter\" \/><\/a>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><a  data-aawp-product-asin=\"B002XZTNFS\" data-aawp-product-id=\"13674\" data-aawp-tracking-id=\"lifeonroute02-20\" data-aawp-product-title=\"Nikwax Tent & Gear Tent & Gear Solarproof 500ml Spray Waterproofing and UV Protector Rain Protector Restores DWR Water Repellency on Outdoor Fabric Rain Fly Canvas Backpacks\" class=\"aawp-button aawp-button--buy aawp-button aawp-button--amazon\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B002XZTNFS?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"Check Latest Deals\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\">Check Latest Deals<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B01LWIT5Z6?tag=lifeonroute02-20,aps,179&amp;sr=8-30&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=laidbackcamping-20&amp;linkId=f866645d1b42cae5a1895b42af81b465&amp;language=en_US\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Kiwi Camp Dry<\/a> is the final brand I have for you to check out, and their products are actually the highest rated for value, effectiveness, and ease of use. It\u2019s also not polyurethane based but it still does a great job at waterproofing your tent.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<a  data-aawp-product-asin=\"B01LWIT5Z6\" data-aawp-product-id=\"13675\" data-aawp-tracking-id=\"lifeonroute02-20\" data-aawp-product-title=\"KIWI Camp Dry Heavy Duty Water Repellant 10.5 Ounce  Pack of 2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B01LWIT5Z6?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"KIWI Camp Dry Heavy Duty Water Repellant 10.5 Ounce (Pack of 2)\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/41gI3r3QUhS.jpg\" alt=\"KIWI Camp Dry Heavy Duty Water Repellant 10.5 Ounce (Pack of 2)\" class=\"aligncenter\" \/><\/a>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><a  data-aawp-product-asin=\"B01LWIT5Z6\" data-aawp-product-id=\"13675\" data-aawp-tracking-id=\"lifeonroute02-20\" data-aawp-product-title=\"KIWI Camp Dry Heavy Duty Water Repellant 10.5 Ounce  Pack of 2\" class=\"aawp-button aawp-button--buy aawp-button aawp-button--amazon\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B01LWIT5Z6?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"Check Latest Deals\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\">Check Latest Deals<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When using a spray waterproofing product be sure to avoid being too close while you spray or runs will develop that will never dry and become sticky themselves. If you decide to use a paint on alternative, apply it with the tent on a flat surface, not set up. This will allow it to be applied more easily and evenly.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>All and all no matter which product you choose, you\u2019re going to want to give it ample opportunity to dry before you store or use your tent again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sealing_the_Seams\"><\/span>Sealing the Seams<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>For stitched seams, they\u2019re going to need a little extra love to stay waterproofed. Once they\u2019re cleaned and dried, you can use a seam sealer like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B000XYQZD4?tag=lifeonroute02-20,aps,172&amp;sr=8-4&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=laidbackcamping-20&amp;linkId=5952a501db3629aa646687752dbbc395&amp;language=en_US\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Gear Aid Seam Grip<\/a> or Peregrine McNett Seam Grip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These products come with an applicator brush that you just attach right to the tube, then use it to apply the sealant down the length of the seam. You\u2019ll need about 1oz of sealant per foot of seams, so plan to have a lot on hand &#8211; especially if you\u2019re also sealing your rain fly. Let the sealant dry, and you should be good to go for your next trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<a  data-aawp-product-asin=\"B000XYQZD4\" data-aawp-product-id=\"13672\" data-aawp-tracking-id=\"lifeonroute02-20\" data-aawp-product-title=\"Gear Aid Seam Grip FC Fast Cure Sealant for Nylon and Polyester Tents Tarps Awnings Clear 2 oz\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B000XYQZD4?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"Gear Aid Seam Grip FC Fast Cure Sealant for Nylon and Polyester Tents, Tarps, Awnings, Clear, 2 oz\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/41nGDAP0d5L.jpg\" alt=\"Gear Aid Seam Grip FC Fast Cure Sealant for Nylon and Polyester Tents, Tarps, Awnings, Clear, 2 oz\" class=\"aligncenter\" \/><\/a>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><a  data-aawp-product-asin=\"B000XYQZD4\" data-aawp-product-id=\"13672\" data-aawp-tracking-id=\"lifeonroute02-20\" data-aawp-product-title=\"Gear Aid Seam Grip FC Fast Cure Sealant for Nylon and Polyester Tents Tarps Awnings Clear 2 oz\" class=\"aawp-button aawp-button--buy aawp-button aawp-button--amazon\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B000XYQZD4?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"Check Latest Deals\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\">Check Latest Deals<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Preventing_Your_Tent_From_Becoming_Sticky\"><\/span>Preventing Your Tent From Becoming Sticky<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As I mentioned, age, being stored damp, and not being able to off-gas are all reasons that your tent will turn sticky. You can\u2019t prevent your tent from getting old, but you can identify problem sections before your whole tent turns into a sticky mess. These areas can be spot treated with a waterproofer right over top of the old polyurethane in many cases.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As for storing the tent damp, like I said avoid it if you can and plan to deal with it if you can\u2019t. The last thing you want to do is store a damp tent for months on end when just pitching it for a day or two in your backyard is all you needed to do to avoid sticky fabric.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Finally, you can give your tent the opportunity to off-gas by storing it hanging up if you have space. Otherwise, don\u2019t roll it up too tightly, <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B07T28KJ7G?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" target=\"_blank\">store it in a mesh bag<\/a> or other breathable bag, and plan on unpacking and repacking it periodically.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<a  data-aawp-product-asin=\"B07T28KJ7G\" data-aawp-product-id=\"13676\" data-aawp-tracking-id=\"lifeonroute02-20\" data-aawp-product-title=\"Oumers Mesh Dive Bag Extra Large Mesh Travel Duffle for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling Gear & Equipment - Dry Bag Hold Mask Fins Snorkel and More\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B07T28KJ7G?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"Oumers Mesh Dive Bag, Extra Large Mesh Travel Duffle for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling Gear &...\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/51UCyBwVh0L.jpg\" alt=\"Oumers Mesh Dive Bag, Extra Large Mesh Travel Duffle for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling Gear &...\" class=\"aligncenter\" \/><\/a><p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><a  data-aawp-product-asin=\"B07T28KJ7G\" data-aawp-product-id=\"13676\" data-aawp-tracking-id=\"lifeonroute02-20\" data-aawp-product-title=\"Oumers Mesh Dive Bag Extra Large Mesh Travel Duffle for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling Gear & Equipment - Dry Bag Hold Mask Fins Snorkel and More\" class=\"aawp-button aawp-button--buy aawp-button aawp-button--amazon\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B07T28KJ7G?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"Check Latest Deals\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\">Check Latest Deals<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Closing_Thoughts\"><\/span>Closing Thoughts<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The most likely cause of your sticky tent is the original polyurethane coating going bad. You can remove the old coating using a powder detergent and either your laundry machine or a scrub brush, then reapply a waterproofing coat and seam sealant. As with most things, however, preventing the problem is easier than dealing with it once it happens.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Having a sticky tent or rain fly can be quite frustrating to set up. Whether you are working on your own or with help of a fellow camper, having to<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":49622,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"advgb_blocks_editor_width":"","advgb_blocks_columns_visual_guide":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[240],"tags":[],"author_meta":{"display_name":"Beau","author_link":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/author\/mcmanus_beau\/"},"featured_img":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/sticky-tent-300x200.webp","coauthors":[],"tax_additional":{"categories":{"linked":["<a href=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/category\/camping\/tents-and-hammocks\/\" class=\"advgb-post-tax-term\">Tents and Hammocks<\/a>"],"unlinked":["<span class=\"advgb-post-tax-term\">Tents and Hammocks<\/span>"]}},"comment_count":"0","relative_dates":{"created":"Posted 4 years ago","modified":"Updated 7 months ago"},"absolute_dates":{"created":"Posted on June 28, 2020","modified":"Updated on October 13, 2023"},"absolute_dates_time":{"created":"Posted on June 28, 2020 12:30 am","modified":"Updated on October 13, 2023 12:40 pm"},"featured_img_caption":"","series_order":"","acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/49615"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=49615"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/49615\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":50318,"href":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/49615\/revisions\/50318"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/49622"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=49615"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=49615"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=49615"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}