← Gear Maintenance & Repair | Tent Care & Repair Quick answer Get the right tools: eyelet kit, hammer, cutting tool, marking tool. Choose your spot: mark where you want the eyelet. Cut the hole: make it just big enough for the eyelet. Place the eyelet halves: one on each side of the tarp. Punch…
Quick answer Most tent pole breaks can be fixed roadside with a repair sleeve. Keep a tent pole repair kit with your camping gear. Clean breaks are easier to fix than snapped poles. Use strong tape (duct tape, Tenacious Tape) for temporary fixes. Practice repairs at home before you need them in the field. Inspect…
Quick answer Check the tag first. It’s your roadmap. Pre-treat stains. Gently. Machine wash on gentle. Use a front-loader if possible. Use mild, down-specific or technical cleaner. No fabric softener. Ever. Rinse thoroughly. Twice is better than once. Dry on low heat with dryer balls. Patience is key. Fluff and store loosely. Keep it happy….
Quick answer Most Coleman sleeping bags can be machine washed. Use a large-capacity, front-loading washing machine. Gentle cycle with cold water is key. Mild detergent, no bleach or fabric softener. Air dry is best; tumble dry on low heat if needed. Check the care tag for specific instructions. What to check first (do this before…
Quick answer Carry a zipper repair kit for roadside fixes. Identify the zipper type (coil vs. metal) for proper repair. Use pliers to gently realign bent teeth on coil zippers. Lubricate stubborn zippers with graphite or wax. Replace missing zipper pulls with a paperclip or cord loop. For broken sliders, a new slider might be…
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 Use a front-loading washing machine. Top-loaders can snag your bag. Gentle cycle, cold water, and a mild, down-specific or technical cleaner. Rinse thoroughly. Extra rinses are your friend. Dry on low heat in a large dryer with dryer balls or clean tennis balls. Fluff and air dry completely before storing. Never use fabric…
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 Assess the damage: is it bent, stuck, or missing teeth? Lubricate: use graphite, wax, or soap on the teeth. Gentle persuasion: wiggle the slider, don’t force it. Use pliers carefully: for bent teeth or stubborn sliders. Consider a repair kit: for missing teeth or broken sliders. Know when to quit: some zippers are…
