Mould Prevention
Mould Prevention and Warranty Policy
At Dwights, we are committed to providing high-quality outdoor gear designed to withstand the elements. To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your equipment, we recommend following the care and storage guidelines below.
Preventing Mould Growth
Mould is a natural occurrence in damp or humid conditions. However, it can be avoided by adhering to these simple steps:
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Dry Thoroughly Before Storage: After using your gear (e.g., tents, sleeping bags, or backpacks), ensure all items are completely dry before storing. This is particularly important for items exposed to rain, dew, or condensation.
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Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Avoid storing gear in damp basements, garages, or sealed containers where moisture can accumulate.
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Ventilate When Possible: If you’re camping in humid conditions, ensure proper ventilation in your tent to reduce condensation.
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Clean Regularly: Follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions to remove dirt and debris that can contribute to mould growth.
Warranty Coverage for Mould
Our warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship but does not cover issues caused by improper use, storage, or maintenance, including mould growth. Specifically:
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Covered: Products that arrive with mould due to a manufacturing or storage issue.
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Not Covered: Mould growth resulting from improper care, storage in damp environments, or exposure to moisture without drying.
What to Do If Mould Appears
If mould develops on your gear despite proper care:
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Clean Promptly: Use a mild soap solution and a soft brush to gently clean the affected area. Avoid harsh chemicals that may damage the fabric or coating.
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Contact Us: If the mould persists or you believe it’s due to a manufacturing fault, reach out to us at online@dwights.co.nz with photos and a description of the issue. We’ll do our best to guide you through the best way to care for it.
Need Assistance?
If you have questions about caring for your outdoor gear or believe your item has a defect, please contact our friendly support team. We’re here to help keep your gear in peak condition for all your adventures.
Contact Us:
Phone: 0800 25 00 25
Email: online@dwights.co.nz
Website: https://dwights.co.nz
Thank you for choosing Dwights for your outdoor adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I prevent mould on camping gear?
Always store gear completely dry — mould thrives on moisture. After camping, air out tents, sleeping bags, and canvas equipment before packing away. Store in breathable bags in a cool, dry location. Never leave wet gear compressed in stuff sacks or storage boxes for extended periods.
How do I remove mould from a canvas tent?
Treat mould on canvas with Mould Rid (available at Dwights) — apply, allow to work, then scrub and rinse. Once clean and dry, re-proof the canvas with Dwights Canvas Waterproofing to restore water resistance and inhibit future mould growth.
Does mould damage camping gear?
Yes — mould degrades canvas and natural fibres, weakens coatings, and causes persistent odour. Caught early, it's treatable. Left untreated, it can permanently damage canvas tents, sleeping bags, and other organic-material gear. Treat promptly and store correctly to prevent recurrence.
How do I stop sleeping bags going mouldy?
Store sleeping bags loosely in a large cotton or mesh storage sack — never compressed. Ensure they're completely dry before storage. If a sleeping bag smells musty, wash with a dedicated down or synthetic wash (Nikwax Down Wash Direct or Base Wash) and dry thoroughly before re-storing.
Is mould covered under warranty?
Mould is not covered under warranty at Dwights or by most outdoor gear manufacturers — it results from storage and care practices, not manufacturing defects. Following the storage and care guidelines for your gear is the best way to protect your investment and avoid mould issues.
Where can I buy mould treatment products in NZ?
Dwights stocks Mould Rid and Dwights Canvas Waterproofing for treating and preventing mould on canvas and outdoor gear. Browse at /collections/equipment-parts.
