How to Maintain Your Roof Top Tent

Australians love a roadie. From the dusty outback to the tropical north, our climate can be tough on roof top tents. Intense UV exposure, sudden downpours, long stretches of dry, dusty tracks, and salt spray from ocean camp sites can quickly take their toll on RTT  fabrics. To keep your home-on-wheels in peak condition, regular cleaning and waterproofing are essential.

Nikwax makes this process simple, safe, and effective. With products designed specifically for technical fabrics, you can extend the life of your roof top tent while keeping it waterproof, breathable, and comfortable, wherever your travels take you.

Why Tent Care is Crucial in Australia’s Climate

Australia’s outdoor conditions are some of the harshest in the world. The sun’s UV rays rapidly weaken untreated fabric, while dust and salt air grind into fibres. Sudden storms can push a tired tent past its limits. A proactive maintenance routine ensures your roof top tent stands up to everything the Aussie environment throws at it.

Step 1: Clean with SolarWash 

The first step is removing dust, dirt, and contaminants. Nikwax Tent & Gear SolarWash does this safely without damaging the waterproof coating.

How to use:

• Set up your tent or lay it on a clean surface
• Spray on Tent & Gear Solar Wash
• Rub into fabric, paying close attention to seams
• Rinse thoroughly to clear all residue

This process revives breathability and prepares the fabric for reproofing.

Step 2: Restore Waterproofing & UV Protection with Tent & Gear SolarProof

The Australian sun is a tent’s biggest enemy. Nikwax Tent & Gear SolarProof offers:

• Strong, long-lasting water repellency for storm protection.
• A UV barrier that helps prevent fabric from fading, drying out, or cracking.

How to use:

• While the tent is still wet from the wash spray evenly one section at a time
• Rub into the fabric, focus on areas that get the most sun exposure, such as the roof panels
• Wipe off any excess and allow to dry thoroughly

Step 3: Don’t Forget Seams and Zips

Dust and grit quickly wear down zips. Applying SolarProof to seams provides extra waterproofing, and a zipper lubricant helps zips run smoothly and last longer.

Step 4: Storing in Hot and Dry Conditions

Correct storage is vital for long-term performance:

• Dry your tent completely before storing to avoid hidden moisture damage
• Store out of direct sunlight and heat, ideally in a shaded or indoor area
• Loosen straps and remove bedding if packed for long periods to relieve fabric stress

Ready for Your Next Aussie Adventure

Whether you’re heading into the red centre, exploring the hinterland, or escaping down the coast, a roof top tent treated with Nikwax Tent & Gear SolarWash and SolarProof will keep you sheltered, protected, and comfortable. With just a little care, your tent will be ready for adventure after adventure in the great Australian outdoors.