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How to Prevent Mold Growth on Your Camp Gear

How to Prevent Mold Growth on Your Camp Gear

September 10, 20141572Views

For those who like to go camping, having a large amount of reusable gear presents some potential issues. One of these issues, especially for those who camp in damp climates, is how to prevent mold growth. There are several strategies campers can employ to avoid mold, and below are just a few tips that prove effective year after year.

Dry Everything After Camping

To prevent mold growth, gear needs to be dry. Immediately upon returning home, all tents, tarps, ground covers, bedding, and bags need to be wiped down or washed and laid out until absolutely dry. If this is not possible at home due to space constraints, do it at a public park on a nice day.

Pack Everything with Silica Sachets

Many people know about silica packets from seeing them in the box with new shoes or other such purchases. Silica is a naturally occurring mineral that absorbs moisture. Packets can be bought in bulk or homemade, and the silica itself can be ordered online. Pack the sachets in with any camping gear that could possibly be even the slightest bit damp. Silica can also be reused by drying it out in the oven at 300 degrees for half an hour or so. This one-time expense can save a family thousands of dollars in destroyed, smelly equipment over the years.

Use Waterproof Gear Boxes

All of this preparation work won’t do any good if camping gear is then stuffed in cardboard boxes or cloth sacks and tossed into a dank corner of a shed or basement. Campers should invest in several large tubs that are both air- and watertight. Buy quality tubs to avoid cracking, and don’t let a plastic tub sit in water. Check the seals each year to make sure water, rodents, and other contaminants will not get into the camping gear.

Finding a system to prevent mold growth is largely a matter of packing dry gear and keeping moisture off of it while in storage. These tips will help preserve campers’ investments for years to come.

Related articles: How to Prevent Chafing on a Hike or 4 Ways to Prevent Blisters on the Trail

Featured Image from Sandy Millar/Unsplash