Does your tent emit a funky smell? If so, it could be a sign of mildew.

Moisture on a tent when it is stored can create a situation for mildew to develop. In addition to producing a bad smell, mildew can damage a tent’s waterproof coating.

REI offers steps to eliminate mildew:

 • Perform light scrubbing with a sponge during a regular cleaning session.

 • If mildew still remains, mix 1/2 cup of Lysol in 1 gallon of hot water.

 • Dip a sponge in the solution. Use it to lightly but thoroughly scrub mildew-afflicted areas.

 • Set up the tent and allow it to air dry.

 • Then mix 1 cup of salt and 1 cup of concentrated lemon juice with 1 gallon of hot water. Rub the solution into the visible mildew, repeat and then allow the tent to dry a second time.

McClatchy-Tribune