How to Maintain Your Roof Top Tent for Maximum Lifespan

A quality roof top tent represents a significant investment, often costing anywhere from $1,500 to over $6,000 for premium models. The good news is that with proper care and maintenance, your RTT can provide a decade or more of reliable service. Neglect it, however, and you might find yourself dealing with mould, degraded waterproofing, failed zippers, and a tent that looks—and smells—far older than it should.

This comprehensive maintenance guide covers everything you need to know to keep your roof top tent in peak condition, from routine cleaning procedures to seasonal care and long-term storage best practices.

Understanding Your Tent's Materials

Before diving into maintenance procedures, it's important to understand what your tent is made of. Different materials require different care approaches.

Canvas and Poly-Cotton

Most quality Australian roof top tents use poly-cotton canvas, typically in weights ranging from 260gsm to 360gsm. This material offers excellent breathability and natural resistance to condensation but requires careful treatment to maintain its waterproof properties. Pure cotton canvas is rare in modern RTTs but follows similar care guidelines.

Synthetic Fabrics

Polyester and nylon fabrics, common in budget tents and rainflies, are more forgiving and easier to clean but can degrade faster under UV exposure. They typically rely on polyurethane (PU) or silicone coatings for waterproofing.

Routine Cleaning: After Every Trip

The most important maintenance habit is quick, consistent cleaning after each camping trip. This prevents small issues from becoming major problems.

Dust and Debris Removal

Australian conditions, particularly red outback dust, can be brutal on canvas. After returning from a trip:

1. Open the tent fully in a shaded area at home
2. Use a soft brush to sweep away loose dirt and debris from the canvas, starting from the top
3. Pay special attention to corners, seams, and around the zipper tracks
4. Shake out the mattress and vacuum if possible
5. Wipe down the shell (for hardshell tents) with a damp cloth

Drying Is Critical

This cannot be stressed enough: never pack away a wet or even damp tent. Moisture trapped in a closed tent creates the perfect environment for mould and mildew growth, which can permanently damage canvas and create unpleasant odours.

• If you packed up in wet conditions, set up the tent at home as soon as possible
• Open all windows and doors to maximise airflow
• Leave it open until completely dry—this may take 24-48 hours in humid conditions
• Avoid direct sunlight for extended periods, as UV can degrade fabrics

Deep Cleaning: Seasonal Maintenance

Two to four times per year (depending on usage), your tent benefits from a thorough deep clean. This is also the time to inspect for any developing issues.

Canvas Cleaning

1. Set up the tent and brush off all loose dirt
2. Mix a gentle cleaning solution: lukewarm water with a small amount of specialised canvas cleaner or mild soap (avoid detergents)
3. Using a soft brush or sponge, work in sections from top to bottom
4. Rinse thoroughly with clean water—soap residue can attract dirt and affect waterproofing
5. Allow to dry completely before closing

Treating Mould and Mildew

If you discover mould spots, address them promptly:

• Brush off any surface mould when dry (do this outdoors to avoid spreading spores indoors)
• Apply a canvas-safe mould treatment product according to directions
• For stubborn stains, a mixture of white vinegar and water (1:4 ratio) can help
• Never use bleach, as it damages canvas fibres and coatings
• Allow to dry completely in open air

Zipper Care and Maintenance

Zippers are one of the most common failure points on roof top tents, and repair or replacement can be expensive. Regular maintenance significantly extends their life.

• After each trip, use a soft brush to remove dirt and grit from zipper teeth
• Apply a zipper lubricant (silicone-based products work well) every few months or whenever zippers feel sticky
• Open and close zippers fully several times after lubricating to distribute the product
• Address any catching or sticking immediately—forcing a zipper is the fastest way to damage it
• Check that zipper pulls are secure and replace any that are bent or damaged

Waterproofing Maintenance

Over time, waterproof treatments degrade, especially with heavy use and UV exposure. Here's how to maintain water resistance.

Testing Waterproofing

Spray water on the canvas surface. If it beads up and rolls off, the waterproofing is intact. If water soaks in and darkens the fabric, it's time to re-treat.

Re-Waterproofing Canvas

1. Clean the canvas thoroughly and allow to dry completely
2. Apply a quality canvas waterproofing product (many Australian brands are available)
3. Follow manufacturer instructions—some require heat activation
4. Pay extra attention to seams and high-wear areas
5. Allow proper curing time before packing away

Hardware and Frame Inspection

Don't neglect the mechanical components of your tent. Regular inspection prevents failures in the field.

What to Check

• Hinges and pivot points: Look for rust, wear, or looseness. Lubricate with a dry lubricant or light machine oil
• Gas struts (hardshells): Ensure they still support the lid properly. Weak struts should be replaced
• Mounting bolts: Check all bolts attaching the tent to your roof rack. Vibration can loosen them over time
• Ladder: Inspect all rungs, hinges, and locking mechanisms. Replace worn feet/pads
• Poles and framework: Look for bent poles, cracked joints, or missing end caps

Storage Best Practices

How you store your tent between trips significantly impacts its longevity.

Short-Term Storage (On Vehicle)

If your tent lives on your vehicle, ensure the cover is secure and in good condition. Consider using a UV-resistant cover if parking outdoors frequently. Check periodically that no water is pooling on the cover.

Long-Term Storage

If removing the tent for extended periods (months), follow these steps:

• Clean and dry thoroughly
• Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area
• Avoid storing on concrete floors (moisture can wick up)
• If possible, leave slightly open or loosely covered rather than sealed
• Include moisture absorbers if storing in humid environments

A well-maintained roof top tent not only lasts longer but performs better. You'll enjoy superior waterproofing, smoother operation, and the confidence that your shelter won't let you down when you're hundreds of kilometres from the nearest town. Take the time to care for your tent, and it will take care of you on countless adventures to come.