How to Waterproof and Reproof a Tent
Over time, exposure to UV rays, rain, dirt and regular use can reduce your tent’s water-repellent performance.
Reproofing restores the durable water repellent (DWR) finish on the outer fabric. This helps rainwater bead on the tent and run off, rather than soaking into the material.
Our tents are designed for camping holidays and occasional outdoor use, with an expected use of approximately 2–5 weeks per year. They are not intended for permanent, seasonal or continuous pitching.
When Should You Reproof a Tent?
A simple way to check whether your tent needs reproofing is to spray water onto the outer fabric.
If the water forms droplets and runs off, the DWR treatment is still working. If the water begins to soak into the fabric, it is time to reproof your tent.
We recommend the following reproofing intervals:
- 2–3 weeks of use per year: Reproof every two years.
- 3–5 weeks of use per year: Reproof once a year.
Choose the Right Tent Waterproofing Treatment
Use a suitable tent waterproofer or DWR reproofing treatment, such as:
- Outwell Water Guard
- Fabsil Universal Protector
Fabsil and similar tent waterproofing products are widely available from UK camping shops, outdoor retailers, DIY stores and online retailers.
Please note: Reproofing restores the water-repellent finish of tent fabric. It cannot repair damaged fabric, worn waterproof coatings, damaged seams or failing seam tape.
Prepare Your Tent Before Reproofing
Your tent must be clean and completely dry before applying a waterproofing treatment.
For general cleaning, use lukewarm water and a soft sponge only. Do not use detergent, soap, household cleaners or other chemicals, as these can damage the existing DWR treatment.
For detailed advice on removing marks and stains, visit our Tent Spot Cleaning Guide.
For advice on drying and storing your tent correctly, read our Tent Care: How to Dry and Store Your Tent.
How to Reproof a Tent
For quick and even coverage, use a garden pressure sprayer or a pump-action sprayer.
Apply the treatment at approximately 20–22°C for the best curing conditions. Always follow the instructions supplied with your chosen waterproofing product.
Step-by-Step Tent Reproofing Instructions
Pitch the tent in a clean, dry and well-ventilated area.
- Make sure the outer fabric is clean and completely dry.
- Apply the waterproofing treatment evenly across the outer tent fabric.
- Treat all fabric areas thoroughly, without oversaturating the material.
- Allow the treatment to dry and cure fully before packing away or using the tent.
Areas to Treat When Reproofing a Tent
When applying water-repellent treatment, do not only treat the main tent fabric. Also apply treatment to:
- Webbing and straps, including pegging points and guyline attachment points
- The fabric around zips, especially the material holding the zip teeth
- Storm straps
Frequently Asked Questions About Tent Waterproofing
How often should I reproof my tent?
If you use your tent for 2–3 weeks per year, reproof it every two years. If you use it for 3–5 weeks per year, reproof it once a year. Reproof sooner if water no longer beads on the outer fabric.
Can I waterproof a tent while it is wet?
No. The tent must be clean and completely dry before applying a waterproofing or reproofing treatment.
Will reproofing fix a leaking tent?
Reproofing can restore the water-repellent finish of the tent fabric. However, it cannot repair torn fabric, damaged coatings, damaged seams or failing seam tape.
What is the difference between waterproofing and reproofing a tent?
Reproofing normally refers to renewing the water-repellent DWR treatment on the outer tent fabric. This helps water bead and run off the surface. Waterproofing is often used more broadly to describe protecting a tent against rain and moisture.
