How to Maintain Your Roof Top Tent

Your roof top tent opens up endless possibilities for exploring New Zealand’s wild and varied landscapes, and with warmer weather just around the corner now is the time to set yourself yup for another banger season of adventure.

From misty alpine passes to the salty coastal breeze, your tent will be exposed to plenty of conditions that can wear it down over time. Regular maintenance ensures your investment lasts longer, performs better, and keeps you comfortable on every trip.

That’s where Nikwax comes in. Safe, easy to use, and environmentally friendly, Nikwax products are designed to clean and protect technical fabrics, restoring waterproofing and breathability so your roof top tent is primed and ready for the next mish.

Why Regular Tent Care Matters in NZ

New Zealand’s weather is famously changeable. One night can bring clear skies and the next a sudden downpour. Constant dampness, morning dew, and salty air around the coasts can encourage mould, mildew, and fabric degradation if not properly managed. By keeping your tent clean and waterproof, you not only stay dry but also extend the life of the fabric.

Step 1: Clean with Tent & Gear SolarWash

Ordinary detergents can strip away waterproof coatings and leave residues that attract dirt. Nikwax Tent & Gear Solarwash is specially formulated to safely clean tent fabrics.

How to use:

• Pitch your tent or lay it flat on a clean surface
• Spray evenly with Tent & Gear SolarWash, paying attention to seams and zips
• Massage into the fabric with a damp cloth 
• Rinse thoroughly with fresh water to remove any excess

This refreshes the fabric and revives its water repellency.

Step 2: Waterproof & UV Protect with Tent & Gear SolarProof

UV exposure in New Zealand is strong, even on cloudy days, and rain can arrive without warning. Nikwax Tent & Gear SolarProof delivers two layers of protection:

• Long-lasting water repellency to keep you dry through heavy showers.
• UV protection that slows down fabric ageing and fading.

How to use:

• While the tent is still wet from the washing process, spray the tent with Tent & Gear SolarProof
• Work in sections for even application, rubbing in as you go 
  
• Concentrate on sun-exposed areas like the roof and seams
• Wipe away any excess and allow to dry fully before storage

Step 3: Look After Seams and Zips

Seams and zips are common weak points. Apply SolarProof along stitching for extra waterproofing. For smoother operation, treat zips with a specialist zipper lubricant to reduce wear and tear.

Step 4: Store it Right in NZ Conditions

How you pack your tent matters as much as how you clean it.

• Always dry completely before storing to prevent mould and mildew
• Store in a cool, ventilated space rather than a damp garage or shed
• If storing long-term, ease tension on straps and buckles and remove bedding

Ready for Your Next Kiwi Adventure

With regular care using Tent & Gear SolarWash and SolarProof, your roof top tent will be ready for every season, from coastal camping missions to alpine escapes. A little maintenance today means a lot more comfort when you’re out in the wild tomorrow.