Had an amazing time at this year’s music festivals? Plenty of sunshine, camp fires and the odd mud fight will have left you with a summer full of great memories - good music and great times with friends! But now it’s time to clean that smelly pile of camping gear you’ve been avoiding, otherwise next year’s festival might see you in the damp, mouldy tent in the corner of the field. Try some of these handy tips to keep your camping gear fresh and clean for next year!

Start with your tent, as it is probably the most vital piece of camping equipment at a festival! If your tent has been put away when it is damp and dirty, this can create a breeding ground for mould and rot, and left long enough means your tent may be damaged beyond repair. To ensure your tent is usable for the festival, pull out all the components and check for any damage, missing parts or bad smells. To get rid of any mould or mildew residue, gently brush off any excess dirt, then wipe clean using a soft bristled brush and mild solution of Liquid Soap Flakes and warm water. Leave to dry in a well ventilated area out of direct sunlight. You may want to consider using a water-proofing product for the flysheet.

Next to tackle is that smelly sleeping bag - start by simply giving it a wash! For synthetic sleeping bags, clean in the washing machine on a gentle wash with a small measure of Liquid Soap Flakes. If you have a downs sleeping bag, lay the bag in a bath of lukewarm water and Liquid Soap Flakes and gently squeeze the soap solution throughout. Do not twist or wring the sleeping bag as this may damage the downs. Refill the bath at least three times, each time gently squeezing the clean water through the bag until the water runs clear. Dry the sleeping bag flat on the ground until partially dried and then hang outside until it is dry throughout.

Once your equipment is clean and packed up in preparation for the festival, half fill two clean socks with bicarbonate of soda and knot them at the top. Place these inside the tent and sleeping bag and then fold away as normal. The Bicarbonate of Soda will prevent odours from building up, and leave it smelling clean and fresh. So all you’ll have to worry about when you get to the festival, is having a good time!

Liquid Soap Flakes are ideal for cleaning outdoor equipment as they remove dirt and grime without damaging waterproof coatings, unlike detergent cleaners and washing powders. Liquid Soap Flakes and Bicarbonate of Soda are produced by Dri-Pak and are widely available from independent hardware stores and supermarkets, including Tesco and Waitrose. For further information and cleaning tips around the home visit www.dri-pak.co.uk

Public Relations by Freestyle PR - part of Freestyle Marketing Nottingham

Labels: cleaning, Dri-Pak, Festivals, Liquid Soap Flakes, Sleeping bag, tent