Canvas Care for a Tepee or Tipis

Care of Your Canvas Tipi

TIPIS DO NOT REQUIRE PRECONDITIONING. The tipi has very steep sides and water will not be able to accumulate on the canvas. Your tipi will shrink in the weather, but since there is not a "framework" that it has to fit, this is not a concern.

FIRE PITS IN A TIPI - The tipi is made to be used with a fire in the center of it. We do, however, caution use of a fire in any tipi under a 14' diameter.

WINDS - The conical shape of the tipi makes for a very wind resistant structure, however, a strong gust can topple a tipi. When you have your tipi set up, you should have a length of rope left hanging from where you tie together the poles. This rope should be pulled down to the ground and staked to hold the poles down tight.

MILDEW - One of the most common problems that occur in canvas is mildew. Even if the tipi is made of a fabric that is mildew resistant, it will mildew if left damp. Mildew is very destructive to cotton fabrics as well as other materials. Mildew usually forms when tipis are put in storage when damp but it can also start for no apparent reason. Mildew can start in a very short time and under certain conditions of humidity and temperature. If mildew has started to grow, it can be stopped from spreading by thoroughly drying the tent, preferably in the hot sun and applying a cleaner such as IOSSO Tent & Camping Gear Cleaner®. This cleaner is made to remove tough dirt and mildew stains. Afterwards you may find it necessary to treat the tent with a water-repellent compound such as Canvak®. If using another treatment, be sure to read the label to make sure it is safe for use on canvas. After any treatment has been applied, make sure the tipi dries completely before putting into storage. If you are leaving your tipi up for an extended period of time, it is recommended that you keep the grass and weeds trimmed from around the bottom to keep the air flowing under the cover which will deter mildew growth. Do not delay in drying your tipi after use!!

Canvas Care for your Tepee





Iosso®
Removes tough dirt, mold, mildew and many other stains. It is color safe and may be used on most fabrics. Great on all tent fabrics. It is biodegradable, nontoxic and does not contain bleach or chlorine products which degrade fabrics. Can be used on treated canvas.
12 oz.--$ 20.50
(Concentrated-makes 3 gal.)


Tear Mender®
A natural latex cement that will bond anything it can penetrate. It works best on natural fibers and leather. It is waterproof, stays flexible and will not wash out. Also known as "Tehr Greeze". Available in two sizes.
2 oz.--$6.95
6 oz.--$10.00