Predicting the weather is something that you can never do with 100% accuracy. However, you can make a camping adventure a lot more enjoyable by ensuring you are not rained on while sitting in your tent waiting for the storm to pass. As we are sure you are aware, that can ruin the whole camping experience, making it a complete nightmare.
Bearing that in mind, one of the most effective ways to ensure you remain dry in your tent is to you use one of the best waterproof tent sprays.
So let’s run through the very best waterproof tent sprays currently available and find the perfect one for you…
Top 10 Best Waterproof Tent Sprays Reviews
1. Nikwax Tent and Gear Cleaning, Waterproofing, and UV Protection
We’ll start the review with this waterproofing tent spray from Nikwax. This dual function spray does not just keep you waterproof, but it also comes with UV protection against sun damage. And it is not only great for tents but also works well for backpacks, awnings, boat covers and umbrellas.
It is water-based, making it biodegradable and environmentally friendly. And does not contain PFCs nor VOCs, and neither does it have artificial scenting agents. Use this, and you can be assured that your gear is clean, waterproof, and UV protected all at the same time.
It comes in two sizes, 17 oz and 34 oz depending on the size of your tent.
Pros
- Easy to Apply.
- Long term durability.
- UV Protection.
Cons
- It can become damp if not properly applied.
2. Star Brite Waterproofing Spray, Waterproofer + Stain Repellent + UV Protection
Star Brite is a Waterproofing spray perfect for all fabrics. So, you can use it for tents, backpacks and even boots. And this Best waterproofing spray does not change the overall look and feel after application. It allows fabrics to maintain their original quality.
But there’s a catch…
Don’t try and apply it in a rush, because the spray may take some time to pump; however, eventually, it does. So you are sure to get the best results as long as you follow the detailed instructions and have some time on your hands.
Pros
- Original formula.
- Works on almost all fabrics.
Cons
- It takes time to pump.
3. TriNova Fabric Protector Spray and Stain Guard for Upholstery Protection
The TriNova Fabric Protector has been specially designed to contain spills. And it will ensure that your fabric, upholstery, and tents are safe from hot and cold liquid spills.
Also, unlike most stain guards on the market, this is non-flammable, making it a safer alternative to many. This Chicago based company’s best waterproof tent repellant is clear and odorless. It is also easy to apply and comes in an 18 oz size.
Pros
- Safe for upholstery.
- Durable.
Cons
- It only comes in one size.
4. Aqua Armor Fabric Waterproofing Spray for Tent & Gear, 32 Oz
This grande sized advanced waterproofing spray is formulated for tents and gears. And as one of the best waterproof tent sprays on the market, it provides high-level water and oil resistance for all outdoor fabrics.
This durable tent spray has a milk-like color and should either be applied with a roller or sprayed on. For the best results, after it has been applied, it should be left for 48-72 hours before having contact with any liquid.
Pros
- Long-lasting waterproof treatment.
- Can withstand heavy rain.
Cons
- No UV protection.
5. Gear Aid Seam Grip TF Tent Fabric Sealer for Waterproofing
This is not just a waterproof tent spray, but it also doubles as fabric sealer. Therefore, this tent spray should last a long time, stop leaks, and keep your tent waterproof.
Built to empower the adventure seeker in you, this is product offers true value. Also, this tent sealer is excellent for restoring the polyurethane coating to tent floors, restoring worn-out tents to seemingly brand new versions of themselves.
Provided the instructions are carefully followed you can be sure of excellent results.
Pros
- Waterproofs and also repairs your tent.
- Brings old polyurethane-coated tent floors back to life.
Cons
- Not UV resistant.
6. Scotchgard Heavy Duty Water Shield Patio & Grilling
By using the Scotchgard Heavy Duty Water Shield Patio & Grilling, you can be assured that your tent will be guarded against leaks and drips while on any adventure. It also provides durable protection with just one application and maintains fabric breathability.
Whether your tent is in use or in storage, this best waterproof tent spray will protect it. Allowing you to go on any trip assured that the weather would not be a hindrance.
No smells…
And unlike a number of other tent sprays, it doesn’t produce any odor after it dries. Although Scotchgard heavy-duty does not come with UV protection, you can be sure that no water or liquid spills will pass through it. Ensuring you stay as dry as can by.
Pros
- Very durable.
- Maintains fabric breathability.
- Odorless.
Cons
- Lacks UV protection.
7. Kiwi Camp Dry Heavy Duty Water Repellant, 12OZ
This Kiwi Heavy Duty Water Repellant has been specially designed to make your tent withstand heavy rain. And this best waterproof tent spray is ideal not just for tents, but for tarps, boots, bags, etc. It also keeps the water out while allowing the fabric to breathe.
The silicone bond to fabric creates a super tough water barrier. And upon application and during the drying process, it will remain odor-free. However, the presence of silicone may cause a slightly darker or richer tone to the fabric, which some people will prefer. Nevertheless, the fabric still maintains the original look and feel.
Spray outside…
It is advisable to use this spray outdoors in well-ventilated areas and keep it away from heat and flames. Also, avoid using the spray while smoking. This tent spray works like magic if properly used and is definitely worth a try. It comes in only a 12 oz size.
Pros
- Highly water-resistant.
- Also suitable for clothes.
- Gives a richer color to the fabric.
Cons
- Not UV resistant.
8. Coleman 2000016520 Seam Sealer
The Coleman 2000016520 Seam Sealer is highly effective with seams on tents, tarps, and backpacks. And it’s easy to use as it doesn’t require mixing with any compound. It also drys in no time at all because of the water-based urethane formula.
This seam sealer comes with built-in applicator pads. But, these applicators are quite flat, making it difficult to apply to some surfaces. You might also experience dissatisfaction with how it dries and the evenness of the finish. However, overall, it is still one of the best waterproofing products for tents currently available.
Pros
- Seals seams perfectly.
- Inbuilt applicator pads.
Cons
- Applicator pads are flat making it difficult to apply to some surfaces.
9. Tent Fabrics & Outdoor Gear Waterproofing Spray
This water-based waterproofing spray is formulated specifically for tent walls, groundsheets, and zippers. And it is built with you in mind and should guarantee a superb camping experience.
Its formulation preserves the breathability of modern-day membrane textiles, and it also works on nylon backpacks. But due to the smaller packaging, it is not suitable for larger tents unless you purchase more than one bottle. If you do, this best waterproof tent spray will keep you bone dry in the rain and also safe from liquid spills.
Pros
- Environmentally friendly.
- Odorless.
Cons
- May need more than one bottle for larger tents.
- No UV protection.
10. Atsko Sno-Seal Water-Guard Extreme Repellent Aerosol
This Aerosol water repellent is al all-rounder and is safe for use on gore-tex and all waterproof breathable fabrics on the market. Its formula allows leathers and fabrics to breathe, giving them waterproof protection without affecting their feel.
As well as applying it to tents, it is also great for non-waterproof shoes, such as those made from suede, as well as travel bags.
Pros
- 10.5-ounce aerosol.
- Non-silicone based.
- Resistant to sun and mildew.
Cons
- Not so efficient.
Best Waterproof Tent Sprays Buying Guide
There are a number of things to consider when choosing the best waterproof tent spray currently available. So let’s go through them…
- Type of Container
Waterproofing products tend to be sold in either a pressurized aerosol bottle container or spritzer bottle.
Aerosol bottles are pre-pressurized with gas. However, in the past, companies were not very particular about which gas they used during pre-pressurization, some of which were not environmentally or user-friendly. Fast forward, and things have changed; nevertheless, there are still some exceptions.
For those who prefer to limit spraying unknown gases into the atmosphere, the spritzer bottle is a better alternative.
On the flip side, aerosol sprays are more inclined to produce a finer and more even result in contrast to their spritzer counterparts.
- Component of Spray
The fundamental component found in most waterproofing sprays is Silicone. This is because it is an effective coating agent for any fabric. Of the ten sprays featured in this review, the majority of them contain Silicone. Quick fact, as you probably know, most human implants are actually silicone. This shows the level of safety of silicone-based products.
- Type of Tent Fabric
Another important consideration is knowing what we want to spray? This brings us to the question of what material is your tent made from?
There are a number of tents on the market constructed from various man-made fabrics. Silnylon is a nylon variant that has been mixed with silicone; this is what makes it water-resistant. The nylon component makes it very similar to plastic bags.
Silpoly, which is also a silicone dominated component of polyester, is also widely used. The significant difference between Silnylon and Silpoly is the texture. Silnylon stretches more compared to Silpoly, which tends to be tougher. Silpoly tents are usually slightly more costly than their Silnylon counterparts.
Lastly, we have the Dyneema Composite which tends to be much less common, although it has proven to possess more water resistance than the other two materials mentioned above.
FAQ’s
How can I improve the waterproofing of my Tent?
There are a couple of tricks to ensure your tents remain waterproof. You can start off by ensuring that it is stored in good condition. You will also need to fix all cosmetic damage as soon as you spot it.
But that’s not all…
You also need the best waterproof tent sprays to ensure that it retains its resistance to water over time. The importance of this cannot be overemphasized.
How do you seam seal a tent?
The seams are the most vulnerable parts of any tent, as they are usually the first to be hit by water. This is why you need to pay careful attention to them as they are very delicate. Seam Sealers such as the…
Coleman 2000016520 Seam Sealer
…will get the job done well and quickly. And after that has been applied, you can use regular best waterproof tent sprays to maintain its protection.
Some Tent Tips:
- Do not wash a tent in the washing machine as this may damage the coating.
- Ensure that you store it properly when it is not in active use.
- Keep it in the shade whenever possible as the sun rays will slowly damage them.
- Always repair any minor issues as quickly as you can, and do not let them get out of hand.
So what are the Best Waterproof Tent Sprays?
Going camping is fun, especially when you are with friends and family. However, it wouldn’t be half as much fun if you end up drenched in rainwater while sitting in your tent and then catch a cold. But this is easily avoided by using any of the best waterproof tent sprays included in this review.
As to which is the very best? If we had to pick our favorite, we would recommend the…
Nikwax UV Tent Spray
This comes with all you need to stay safe, waterproof, and leave you enjoying your camping adventure.