← Gear Maintenance & Repair | General Gear Cleaning & Storage Quick answer Declutter: Sort gear by season and frequency of use. Vertical is your friend: Use wall-mounted shelves and racks. Clear bins are key: See what’s inside at a glance. Label everything: Even if you think you’ll remember. Think modular: Stackable containers adapt to…
← Gear Maintenance & Repair | General Gear Cleaning & Storage Quick answer Clean your reservoir, hose, and bite valve after every few uses, or immediately if you taste anything off. Use warm water and a mild soap, or a specialized cleaning tablet. For tougher buildup, a long bottle brush or reservoir cleaning kit is…
Quick answer Practice makes perfect. Get it down before you need it. Pack it loose if you’re in a hurry. A crumpled coat still keeps you dry. Use the stuff sack or hood for a compact bundle. Fold it small to save precious pack space. A dry coat folds easier. Squeeze out excess water first….
Quick answer Pinpoint the source of moisture. That’s your main enemy. Ventilate, ventilate, ventilate. Open windows, use fans. Clean thoroughly. Don’t just mask the smell. Use natural deodorizers like baking soda and vinegar. Address the AC/furnace system. It can recirculate odors. Check for mold and mildew. Get rid of it if you find it. Consider…
Quick answer Practice makes perfect. Don’t rush the first time. Identify the buckle type. Most are straightforward. Feed the strap end through the opening. Fold the strap back. Secure the strap. This varies by buckle. Test the tension. It should hold firm. What to check first (do this before you drive out) Before you even…
Quick answer Clean it regularly, especially before long trips. Use compressed air for dust and debris. Wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth. Check the igniter and burner assembly. Store it dry and clean. Don’t use harsh chemicals. What to check first (do this before you drive out) Before you head out, a quick…
Quick answer Rinse immediately after each use. Use warm water and mild soap. Brush the inside thoroughly. Dry completely before storing. Store with the bladder open. Deep clean every few weeks or if you notice smells. What to check first (do this before you drive out) Before you pack up for that trail or camping…
Quick answer Lay your tarp flat, dirt-side down. Fold it in half lengthwise, then in half again. Fold the long edges in to meet in the middle. Fold the whole thing into a manageable square or rectangle. Secure it with cordage or the stuff sack. Store it dry and clean. What to check first (do…
Quick answer Pack it right, save space. Know your material. The “roll” method works for most. Stuff sacks are your friend. Don’t cram it. Keep it dry inside. What to check first (do this before you drive out) Before you even think about folding that raincoat, a few things need your attention. This isn’t about…
Quick answer Always rinse your filter after each use. Backflush it regularly, especially if flow slows. Store it dry to prevent mold and damage. Use the right cleaning method for your filter type. Check for cracks or damage before and after trips. Follow manufacturer instructions for deep cleaning. What to check first (do this before…
