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Properly looked after your tent will last much longer, and you are less likely to get a nasty surprise when you are actually using it! Use the following basic tips.

Before use:

• Get to know your tent. Before the initial camping trip, practice pitching perhaps in the garden.
• Check that all the parts are present and undamaged.
• Seal all seams with sealant. Advisable if the tent is nylon or synthetic material.
• Some manufacturers supply sealant with a new tent. Taped seams don't require sealing
• New cotton tents need to be weathered (Covered below)

Pitching:

If you properly maintain and pitch your tent, it should resist most weather conditions.

• Select an area which is as flat as possible. Avoid low lying or marshy ground which could flood in heavy rain.
• Clear the site of anything which could damage the groundsheet, stones or sticks for example
• Do not peg the groundsheet out too tightly.
• It is better not to pitch under trees. It drips long after the rain has stopped, some trees drop sticky sap and birds don't care where they drop....
• Make use of any natural windbreaks, such as hedges and try to face the tent door away from prevailing wind.

Zips, Pegs and Guys.

• It helps to pitch the tents with the zips closed.
• Avoid treading on zips, especially if wearing boots, and treat gently, do not force. Try some silicon lubricant or rub with a pencil.
• Drive pegs in at an angle to the direction of pull to get the best grip in the ground. Peg in line with the direction of the seam.
• Pegs situated at the base of zips should be crossed over to take off any strain.
• Rubber guy loops should be stretched sufficiently to tension the fabric without overstretching.

In Use

• Site your tent a minimum of 6m from adjacent tents.
• DO NOT place cooking, heating or lighting appliances near sides of tent or fabric.
• Keep tent exits clear.
• NEVER allow children to play near or with lighted appliances.
• It is recommended that you carry spare pole(s) and tent repair kit.
• Condensation can occur in nylon/polyester tents and even cotton and should not be confused with leakage. To reduce condensation ensure that the tent is well ventilated at all times.

Storage

• Before storing the tent ensure that it is completely dry and that all mud has been removed.
• Tents are best stored opened out in a dry well aired place. If this is not possible, air tent on a dry day or indoors if necessary.
• Mildew affects cloth when tent is stored in damp or wet conditions. At first signs, dry out the tent completely. Brush carefully and re-proof.
• Dirt and stains can be removed by either brushing or gently washing with mild soap. Never use detergents.
• Do not scrub, rinse well and dry thoroughly, re-proofing if necessary.
• Store pegs and poles separately.
• Follow manufacturers instructions on treatment.

Weathering:

• Cotton tents are not at their best until they have been thoroughly wet and then naturally dried out. Why not erect your new tent for a few days and allow to be rained on? If it is not convenient to wait for rain then try spraying with a garden hose until the tent is wet then allow it to dry.