Removing Tree Sap from RTT

[seanz0rz]

While camping up in the PWN, our new CVT RTT got a few good sized sap drops on the rain fly and the tent itself.

How should I go about removing the sap? I have used Goop before on clothing, but that was washed immediately afterwards. I can rinse the tent afterwards, but it is no substitute for a good machine wash.

I have seen recommendations like hand sanitizer, bug spray, acetone, rubbing alcohol, etc. but worry about negatively impacting the fabric.

tent with fabric specs: http://www.cascadiatents.com/index.php?m=94&s=594&c=&id=117&page=1



I can't be the only one with this problem!

Thanks,
Sean

 

[ColoDisco]

If no one chimes in you might call Bobby at CVT. they may have a solution. Good luck and keep us appraised as I just bought one and this is a real possibility with my tent as well.

 

[jeep-N-montero]

As with any material you want to avoid alcohol or other chemicals that can actually weaken the threads. One of the safer cleaning solutions is Goo-Gone, I have used it on tent trailers with good results.

 

[Martyn]

I wouldn't use a solvent on the fabric.

I'd first try freezing the tar with an ice cube and remove the solid tar with a knife.

Depending how much tar was left at that stage I'd work the area with peanut oil or Tea Tree Oil to dislodge the tar. You can wipe up any excess with paper towels.

I would test the fabric in an hidden area with the peanut oil or Tea Tree Oil prior to applying it to make sure there were no adverse effects.

 

[seanz0rz]

I agree, I don't think a harsh solvent is the way to go here.

This is the goop I was referring to: http://goophandcleaner.com/products/original-goop/ it has worked well on pants made of a very similar material with large amounts of tree sap.

I will try the ice first, since that is free and harmless.

 

[taquito971@yahoo.com]

On my car I have used the old traditional warm soapy water with much success. I tried everything including alcohol, googone, a myriad of household cleaners and even plastic putty knives. Not sure why I overlooked the plain soap and water for so long. Shouldn't be detrimental to the fabric?

 

[Christian P.]

WD-40. It worked very well on my BBQ.

http://www.wd40.com/automotive/


Removes tree sap.
Stupid sappy trees.
Trees provide shade, but they can also provide unwanted deposits of sticky residue on your car, which can harden and even cause damage. Use WD-40 to help remove the residue and keep your car looking great.

 

[Christian P.]

WD-40. It worked very well on my BBQ.

http://www.wd40.com/automotive/


Removes tree sap.
Stupid sappy trees.
Trees provide shade, but they can also provide unwanted deposits of sticky residue on your car, which can harden and even cause damage. Use WD-40 to help remove the residue and keep your car looking great.

 

[MANUCHAO]

Other than it being cosmetic.. I would try to remove as much of the tree sap and leave the rest in place....you might make more damage trying to take it out.....
Think of tree sap as fugly protection....

 

[VanIsle_Greg]

WD-40 does work well at removing tree sap, but I am not sure that I would use it on the tent? Freezing it might work, at least for the majority of it. I would do some tests somewhere first... call CVT, I am sure they have come across this before? FAQ on their site maybe?