Effective Mold Removal From Camper Canvas

If you're a camper owner, you've likely encountered the dreaded mould and mildew problem. It's a common issue, especially after rain, but it can be tackled with some household products and elbow grease. The key is to act fast, as mould can spread quickly and cause irreversible damage to your camper's canvas. In this article, we'll outline the steps to remove mould and prevent future infestations, ensuring your camper stays in top shape for years to come.

How to get rid of mold on camper canvas

Dry the canvas in direct sunlight

Sunlight is a natural mould inhibitor and is an effective way to prevent mould from spreading. The UV light from the sun kills mould spores. It is important to dry the canvas in direct sunlight to prevent the further spread of mould.

To dry the canvas in direct sunlight, first unfold the camper and let it sit in the sun. If you are unable to unfold the camper, loosely roll up the tent and let it dry at home in a garage or living room before storing it. If you are drying the tent conventionally, it is recommended to dry it in a well-ventilated area. Using a fan to circulate the air can help speed up the drying process.

Drying the canvas in the sun will not remove mould stains, but it will help to prevent further mould growth and kill any live mould spores. It is important to combine drying in the sun with other mould removal methods, such as scrubbing the canvas with a stiff-bristled brush and using a mould removal solution.

After treating the mould, it is important to let the canvas air dry completely before storing it. This will help to ensure that all moisture is removed and prevent mould from returning.

Use a stiff brush to scrub off mould

To get rid of mould on a camper canvas, scrubbing with a stiff brush is often a necessary first step.

First, unfold the camper and let it sit out in direct sunlight. Direct sunlight helps inhibit the growth of mould spores and will kill any live spores.

Then, using a stiff-bristled brush or a stiff broom, scrub off as much mould as possible. If the problem isn't severe, you may be able to remove a substantial portion of the mould from your canvas.

If the mould is only on the surface of the canvas, you should be able to wipe it with warm water and a brush. However, if the mould is more established in the fibres of the canvas, there may already be damage to the layers of the canvas and permanent staining. In this case, it is still important to kill the mould so it doesn't cause further damage.

After scrubbing, you will need to treat the mould with a cleaning solution. You can use a commercial mould remover designed for use on campers, or a homemade solution. Homemade solutions can include vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, or a mixture of bleach, vinegar, and water. Apply the solution directly to the mould and let it sit for about 15 minutes. Then, use a cloth and water to wipe the area clean and remove any excess solution.

Finally, let the camper air-dry for 48 hours in a dry place before closing it to avoid any further mould or mildew growth.

Treat mould with vinegar or hydrogen peroxide

Vinegar and hydrogen peroxide are effective ways to treat mould on your camper's canvas. However, it is important to note that hydrogen peroxide is only suitable for solid surfaces, not porous or soft materials like fabrics.

Vinegar

White distilled vinegar is the best type of vinegar to use, with a typical acidity level of 5%. It can be used undiluted, or diluted with water, and sprayed onto the mould. Allow the vinegar to sit for at least an hour before wiping or scrubbing.

Hydrogen Peroxide

Use 3% hydrogen peroxide in a spray bottle, spraying it onto the mouldy surface and ensuring the area is completely covered. Wait 5-10 minutes, or until the bubbling stops, before scrubbing the area with a rag or soft brush.

Protective Gear

When treating mould, it is important to wear protective gear, including gloves, goggles, and a mask to prevent direct contact with mould spores.

Avoid bleach and harsh chemicals

Bleach and other harsh chemicals should be avoided when cleaning mould from camper canvas. While it may seem like a quick fix, bleach can actually damage the canvas material and break down the protective coating, leaving your canvas more susceptible to future mould and water damage. Bleach can also be dangerous to work with, requiring extra care and safety precautions.

Instead, opt for gentler yet effective solutions. White vinegar is a mild acid that can kill mould without damaging the canvas fabric. Simply fill a spray bottle with undiluted vinegar and liberally apply it to the mouldy areas. Allow it to sit for at least an hour, and then use a soft-bristled brush or a damp cloth to gently scrub and wipe away the mould.

Another safe and effective alternative is baking soda. Mix it with water to form a paste, then apply it to the mouldy areas. Let it sit for a few hours, and then scrub gently with a soft brush or damp cloth until the mould is gone. Baking soda not only removes mould but also absorbs moisture and helps prevent future mould growth.

If you prefer a more natural approach, tea tree oil is a powerful mould fighter. Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with water in a spray bottle, and apply it to the affected areas. Let it sit for an hour or so, and then wipe the mould away with a damp cloth. Tea tree oil has antifungal properties, making it a great natural alternative to harsh chemicals.

For more stubborn mould or heavy infestations, commercial mould removers designed specifically for fabrics are an option. Look for products containing enzymes, which break down mould without the need for harsh chemicals. Always test these products on a small, inconspicuous area of your canvas first to ensure they don't cause discolouration or damage.

Reproof the canvas with a water-based treatment

To reproof the canvas with a water-based treatment, you must first ensure that the canvas is clean and dry. This is because the treatment will not adhere properly to a dirty or damp surface. Begin by cleaning the canvas with a moderately stiff-bristled brush, scrubbing away any excess dirt and mould. If dirt spots remain, use a cloth with mild dish detergent mixed with water to scrub the area until it is clean. Avoid applying soapy water directly to the canvas and instead apply it to the cloth first.

Once the canvas is clean, rinse it with water and allow it to air dry completely. If the camper canvas is still set up, you can let it dry in direct sunlight, which will help to kill any remaining live mould spores.

When the canvas is completely dry, you can begin the reproofing process. Choose a fluoropolymer-based product, as this is the best treatment for acrylic canvas. Avoid using a silicone treatment, as this is incompatible with acrylic canvas and will compromise the fabric's stain resistance.

Apply the fluoropolymer-based product evenly to the canvas, following the manufacturer's instructions. This usually involves spraying on two light coats, with the second applied perpendicular to the first, to ensure uniform coverage.

After application, allow the treatment to dry completely before using the camper again. The drying time will be specified on the product's instructions.

By following these steps, you will effectively reproof your camper canvas with a water-based treatment, helping to prevent future mould and mildew problems.

Frequently asked questions