How to Store and Clean Your Tree Tent Between Trips
By Tentsile | The Original Tree Tent & Camping Hammock | Published: 2026-10-14
Category: Tips & Care
A practical, step-by-step routine for drying, cleaning, and storing your tree tent so it stays fresh and ready for the next trip.
Quick answer
After every trip, empty and air-dry your tree tent completely, then clean only the soiled areas with lukewarm water and a mild soap before drying it again. Once it is bone dry, store it loosely in a cool, dark, dry place rather than compressing it damp. That single routine prevents most mildew, fabric damage, and hardware problems.
Why drying matters more than cleaning
Most tree tent problems blamed on dirt are actually moisture problems. Packing a tent while it is still damp traps water against coated fabric and webbing, and that is where mildew starts. Even a tent that looks dry on the outside can hold moisture in seams, floor corners, and strap pockets. Give it time to dry in the shade with airflow on all sides, and never leave it folded wet in a stuff sack overnight.
Cleaning products that are safe for tent fabric
Use lukewarm water and a mild, non-detergent soap, then rinse thoroughly. Avoid bleach, solvents, and heavy degreasers because they can strip coatings and weaken webbing. A soft sponge or cloth is enough for most marks; a soft-bristled brush helps with dried mud without abrading the fabric. If you are unsure about a product, test it on a small hidden area first.
Storing a tree tent so it lasts
Store your tree tent loosely folded or gently gathered, not compressed into the smallest possible bundle. A cool, dark, dry cupboard or bin with some airflow is better than a hot garage or a damp basement. Keep it away from sharp tools, rodent-attracting food smells, and long-term UV exposure. If you store it for months, check it once mid-season for any sign of moisture or odor.
Between-trip care steps
- Empty and shake out: Remove all gear, food, and debris. Turn the tent upside down and shake it gently, then check pockets and corners for crumbs, pine needles, or small stones. Common mistake: leaving snacks or wrappers inside, which attracts pests and leaves stains.
- Air-dry fully in the shade: Hang or drape the tent so air moves around all sides, including seams and the floor. Let it dry until no cool or damp spots remain, even if that takes a few hours. Checkpoint: press a dry hand against seams and corners; any coolness means it is still damp.
- Spot-clean with mild soap: Mix lukewarm water with a mild, non-detergent soap. Wipe soiled areas with a soft sponge or cloth, then rinse with clean water. Do not scrub aggressively or soak the whole tent. Common mistake: using dish detergent, bleach, or a washing machine, which can damage coatings and webbing.
- Rinse and dry again: After cleaning, rinse thoroughly to remove soap residue, then air-dry the tent completely a second time before any storage. Checkpoint: soap residue can attract dirt and hold moisture, so rinse until the water runs clear.
- Inspect straps, buckles, and seams: While the tent is hanging, look for frayed webbing, bent buckles, loose stitching, or small tears. Clean grit out of buckles with a soft brush and fresh water. Common mistake: ignoring small abrasions that can grow into bigger repairs later.
- Store loose, cool, and dry: Fold or gather the tent loosely and place it in a breathable bag or bin in a cool, dark, dry space. Avoid compressing it tightly or leaving it in a hot car or damp basement. Next step: set a reminder to check stored tents once a season for moisture or odor.
Product notes
- UNA Air 1-Person Hammock Tent: The UNA Air is described as the smallest packing, lightest, best ventilated Tree Tent in the world, engineered for hikers, bikers, kayakers and trailblazers who refuse to choose between comfort and pack weight. Its light, ventilated design makes thorough drying especially quick, but it also means you should avoid over-compressing it in storage.
- UNA 1-Person Hammock Tent (3.0): The UNA 1-Person Hammock Tent is lightweight and compact, delivering complete stability and cloud-like comfort, and the latest UNA model is live on Kickstarter from 23rd March 2026. A compact packed size is convenient, but storing it loosely at home protects the fabric and straps between trips.
- Flite 2-Person Tree Tent (3.0): The Flite 2-Person Tree Tent is lightweight, easy to pitch, and compact enough for backpacking while still comfortable for two. Because it packs small for backpacking, resist the urge to leave it compressed long-term; give it room to breathe in storage.
