How to clean a Gazebo or Marquee

Keep It Clean, Keep It Fresh with these Expert Tips

A marquee or gazebo is a significant investment, and like any investment, it requires proper care to ensure longevity. Regular maintenance not only keeps your marquee looking good but also ensures it remains functional for years. In this article, we provide practical tips on how to maintain and extend the life of your marquee.

Regular Cleaning

Cleaning your marquee after each use is essential to prevent the build-up of dirt and mildew. Use mild soap and water to clean the fabric, and avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the material. Pay special attention to areas that are prone to dirt, such as the base and seams. 

Proper Storage

Storing your tent correctly is crucial to its longevity. Ensure that the marquee is completely dry before packing it away to prevent mould growth. Store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, which can cause the fabric to weaken over time.

Inspection and Repairs

Regularly inspect your marquee for signs of wear and tear, such as small tears, loose stitching, or rust on metal parts. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent them from becoming more significant problems. Keep a repair kit handy for quick fixes during events.

Handling with Care

When assembling and disassembling your tent, handle it with care. Avoid dragging the fabric on rough surfaces, and ensure that all components are correctly fitted to prevent strain on the structure. Proper handling reduces the risk of damage and prolongs the life of your marquee.

How to Clean a Marquee or Gazebo

As primarily outdoor structures, gazebos and marquees are faced with the challenges of the Great British weather more than most things. Blazing sunshine, pouring rain, and muddy environments. One of the most common questions we're asked by our customers, both before and after they purchase a tent from us, is how do I clean the gazebo? This is our quick guide to help you do just that.

How to keep a gazebo is the best condition

Firstly, pop up gazebos and marquees are not designed to be left out all year round. The covers are manufactured using UV protection, and are extremely water-resistant, so when you're using them you will be as protected as you possibly can be, and the unique concertina framework come in one piece and can be quickly deployed and dismantled in minutes, so to keep it in the best possible condition throughout the year, then we recommend that you take it down between uses.

When you take it down, ensure that the gazebo canopy is completely dry, to avoid the build-up of mildew and mould between uses. If you're at an event or show and want to get away quickly, then please ensure that you take your gazebo covers out of the storage bags and hang them up to dry properly.

Purchasing a gazebo storage bag, or canopy and pole bags for your marquee, for between uses is a good investment, and we supply bags for all of our frames. These bags come with added pockets, so you can keep your canopy away from potentially damp conditions.

However, we know that many users leave them up all year round, so, if you do have your gazebo erected all year round you would expect to clean this a few times depending on where this is erected. Whilst the covers are as protective as possible, there's always dirt and dust in the air, tree sap that can cause stains.

How to clean a gazebo

1. Rinse off any visible dirt with clean, tepid water.

2. For regular cleaning when there is no stains or grime, we recommend simple soapy water in a large bucket to build up a nice foam.

3. You can use a specialist car cleaner or household cleaner such as washing liquid, both diluted in water work well.

4. Do not use any strong acid, alkaline, bleaching or oxidising cleaning agents, as these may damage the surface of the gazebo covers.

5. The soapy solution can be spread over the tent covers using a large sponge or mop, depending on the size of the gazebo.

6. If there is stubborn dirt or grime, you may need to use a brush, or even a hard bristle deck scrubber for suborn stains or larger canopies

7. We would NOT recommend using any electric scrubbing tools, if your pop up gazebo canopy is that far gone buy a new one.

8. When cleaning be careful around stitched areas, contact with stitching must be avoided with aggressive cleaning which could destroy it and cause leakage. Careful manual cleaning is preferable where possible.

9. Do not leave the soapy water on the gazebo covers for more than 5 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with clean water to ensure no soap residue remains. A hose or light pressure washer are effective for this job.

10. The gazebo material must be completely dry before being packed away, otherwise mould and mildew could form and the material could perish. Wiping off excess moisture with a clean dry cloth or mop is advisable, as is hanging the gazebo tent covers on the washing line to dry off completely.

11. You can also put back on the framework to dry off on a nice sunny day.

12. Also, use the opportunity to wipe the gazebo frame clean too, then ensure this is also dry before packing away into storage.

How to clean mildew from tent covers

It’s not unreasonable to expect this situation. After all, these tents are exposed to dirty open outdoor environments and then spend most of their downtime being folded away and stored in environments like industrial units, garages and storage sheds. These places are a breeding ground for a mould and mildew. It can be tempting to simply give up and accept mildew stains on any gazebo. However, you can minimize the hassle of removing mildew spores by using the following instructions and cleaning options. Cleaning mildew no matter where you see it growing means your gazebo tent requires maintenance and fast, once you know it’s there, it must be dealt with.

Even if your gazebo or marquee is covered in mildew, resist the urge to attack it and start scrubbing away. Remember that excess moisture is probably what led to this mess in the first place. So, pop up the gazebo tent for a closer inspection and allow it 24 hrs to air out and dry.

1. Now you can attack, get out your dry stiff brush and start scrubbing.

2. Once you are satisfied that you have removed everything that it is possible to remove with a brush. Use a handheld vacuum cleaner to remove any debris that may have come loose that are small and not easily visible.

3. Time to kill the mould and mildew, so it's time for some alcohol and Vodka is on the menu, yes that's right but it's not for you it's for the gazebo tent, to null the pain. So, mix with water, 1-part alcohol 2-part water and mix in a bucket or similar container.

4. Now use a damp rag with the medicine and rub the gazebo tent material thoroughly. You may need to reinstate the brush again here and scrub multiple times, particularly if the material in quite infected with mildew. However, do not apply so much of the medicine that it drips or runs off this is a waste of alcohol and you may need a drink after.

5. Finally, rinse out all the alcohol with tepid water and allow your tent covers to dry for 24 hours.

6. Once you are happy with your now super clean tent, you may now want to re-treat your fabric with some tent Waterproofer.

   
   

After taking this advice, if you are convinced that your gazebo covers cannot be saved, then don't despair. gala Tent sells a full range of universal, high quality replacement canopies and sidewalls for our gazebos. Please be aware that we cannot guarantee that our covers will be suitable for frames purchased from elsewhere, as they are designed specifically for our tents.

Proper Storage

Disassemble Carefully

When it’s time to take down your gazebo, do so carefully to avoid damaging any components. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure each part is disassembled correctly.

Store in a Dry Place

Store your gazebo in a dry, cool place to protect it from moisture, which can lead to mould and rust. If possible, keep it in a storage bag designed for gazebos to prevent dust accumulation.

Avoid Direct Sunlight

If storing your gazebo outdoors, make sure it’s in a shaded area away from direct sunlight, as prolonged exposure can cause the fabric to fade and weaken.

Handling Repairs

Tears and Holes in the Canopy

Over time, the canopy may develop small tears or holes, especially if it’s frequently exposed to the elements. It’s important to repair these promptly to prevent them from getting worse.

· Use Repair Kits: Many gazebos come with repair kits that include patches and adhesive. Follow the instructions to patch up small holes.

· Replace if Necessary: If the canopy is severely damaged, it may be more cost-effective to replace it rather than repair it.

Frame Repairs

The frame is usually robust, but it can become damaged if mishandled or exposed to extreme conditions.

· Tighten Loose Bolts: Regularly check for and tighten any loose bolts or screws. This will keep the frame stable and prevent further damage.

· Replace Damaged Parts: If a part of the frame is bent or broken, contact Gala Tent to order replacement parts. Using damaged components can compromise the safety and stability of the gazebo.

Seasonal Maintenance

If you’re not planning to use your gazebo during the winter, take extra care when storing it.

· Clean Thoroughly: Ensure both the canopy and frame are clean before storing.

· Store Indoors: If possible, store your gazebo indoors during the winter months to protect it from harsh weather conditions.

Summer Care

During the summer, your gazebo may see more frequent use. Be sure to inspect it regularly for wear and tear, and take steps to protect it from UV damage by using a canopy protectant spray.

Download Your Free Brochure

Ready to explore our range of heavy-duty gazebos? Download our free gazebo colour brochure and discover the perfect gazebo for your next event.

Book an Online Demonstration

Not sure which gazebo is right for you? Book an online demonstration with our specialists and get personalised advice tailored to your specific needs.

Our team of experts are available on 01709 242454 if you aren't sure if it's a Gala Shade gazebo you have, so give them a call, or why not send us a message via the form below and we'll be back in touch as quickly as possible.