Before your first spring trip, take time to check your roof tent: is everything dry and clean, are there visible signs of damage, and do you have the correct manual? This checklist helps you prepare. Follow the instructions for your specific model when choosing cleaning products, care treatments or work on the tent.
1. Open the tent and check its condition
Open the roof tent according to its instructions and allow enough time for drying. Remove loose bedding. Check the fabric, seams, zips and area beneath the mattress for moisture, dirt or visible damage. Photograph anything unusual before starting a treatment.
2. Gently remove loose dirt
Carefully remove leaves, sand and crumbs, paying attention to corners and zips. Avoid vigorous scrubbing and do not force a stuck zip. Check the care instructions before using brushes or other tools.
3. Choose cleaning methods for each material
Check which cleaning methods are specified for the tent fabric, coating, hard shell and mattress cover. Use suitable products and follow their instructions. A cleaner intended for the shell is not automatically suitable for fabric. If compatibility is unclear, ask first rather than trying several cleaners.
There is no universal chemical recommendation here for stains or mould. Agree on an appropriate approach with the manufacturer or support team. A surface that looks clean does not prove that the underlying problem has been resolved.
4. Check the interior and mattress separately
Inspect the underside of the mattress and any underlay. The care label determines whether a cover can be removed or washed. Treat bedding and the mattress as separate checks so that moisture underneath dry surfaces is not overlooked.
5. Allow everything to dry completely
Only close or store the tent once it is completely dry. The Thule Tepui manual, “Storage and Handling” section, also stresses complete drying before storage. It is a general manufacturer reference for this principle and does not replace the instructions for your BIA model.
6. Check whether further treatment is needed
Waterproofing, seam care and zip care depend on the material and model. Do not automatically spray the whole tent after every cleaning. First establish whether treatment is necessary and which product is specified. The same applies to lubricants and repair kits.
Checklist before your first trip
- Are the fabric, interior and mattress clean and completely dry?
- Have the seams and zips been checked?
- Have visible damage and outstanding care questions been addressed?
- Have setup, ladder and mounting been checked against the model instructions?
- Do you have the correct manual available for your trip?
You can find the manuals on the product pages for Robert and Gerald. For questions about care or damage, use our contact details.