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How to Clean and Store Your Roof Box or Tent After a Trip
After an epic road trip or wild camping weekend, it’s tempting to chuck your gear in the garage and forget about it. But taking the time to clean and store your roof box or roof tent properly means it’ll last longer, stay safer, and look like new on your next outing.
Here’s how to do it right.
🧽 Step 1: Clean It Thoroughly
Both roof tents and roof boxes are exposed to dirt, bugs, salt, and weather — and they’ll need a proper clean before going into storage.
For Roof Boxes:
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Use a mild car shampoo or non-abrasive cleaner
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Apply with a soft cloth or sponge (no harsh brushes)
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Rinse with clean water and dry with a microfibre towel
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Don’t forget inside — vacuum out any debris or sand
For Roof Tents:
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Brush off loose debris and shake out fabric
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Spot-clean canvas with warm water and gentle soap
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Avoid pressure washers — they can damage waterproofing
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Wipe down metal hinges and check for rust
📌 Tip: Let the tent dry fully before packing it away to prevent mildew.
🛠 Step 2: Inspect for Damage
Before storage, do a once-over for signs of wear and tear:
| Part | What to check |
|---|---|
| Hinges & locks | Rust, stiffness, or missing parts |
| Tent canvas | Tears, mould, or fraying seams |
| Mounting brackets | Bent pieces or worn rubber pads |
| Internal struts or arms | Functionality & secure fittings |
🧰 Replace or fix any damaged components before storing — or you’ll forget by next season.
📦 Step 3: Store It Properly
Roof Boxes:
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Store flat in a dry, sheltered space (shed, garage, etc.)
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Avoid placing heavy items on top — this can deform the shell
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Use wall hooks or roof hoists if space is tight
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Leave slightly open (unlatched) to avoid seal compression
Roof Tents:
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Store in a dry area away from damp floors or walls
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Use a breathable storage bag or tent cover
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If possible, store off the ground on a rack or shelf
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Leave access for air flow to avoid mustiness
🧠 Bonus Tips
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Label your mounting kits, straps and foot packs so you don’t mix them up
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For tents, consider re-proofing the canvas once a year
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For boxes, lubricate locks and hinges before storage
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Check roof bar condition too — rust on metal bars? Clean and coat
🔗 Car Care & Protection Products
❌ What Not to Do
| ❌ Mistake | 🚫 Why to Avoid |
|---|---|
| Store wet gear | Leads to mould, rust, and damage |
| Use harsh chemicals | Can strip protective coatings |
| Stack heavy items on roof boxes | Causes warping |
| Leave tents sealed airtight | Encourages damp & mildew |