I have an older dome tent made by JanSport. I recently pulled it out of storage after"a few" years. The waterproof coating of the nylon floor sticks to itself and makes it tough to set up, also sticks to ensolite pads. Is the tent history or can it be washed with something?

—Tom Lawton

Annie's Answer:

	Ask the Expert Annie Getchell Gear expert Annie Getchell believes the key to happiness is buying quality gear and treating it with tender loving care. Meet Annie Answer Archive Gear Forums

My sympathies, Tom. I regret to inform you that your old dome is probably kaput.

Even if you packed the tent when it was clean and dry, it's possible that ambient moisture has caused some mildew to attack the coating. More likely, long-term storage in a warm place has created the stickiness.

When you're dealing with coated fabrics, remember that huge strides have been made in the science of synthetics. Early versions may not live up to the reputation or claims of what's currently out there.

Before giving it the old heave-ho, there are a few things you can try. One is a wash recommended by the folks at Rainy Pass Repair (recipe follows). As a last resort you could try an application of a recoat product from Kenyon Consumer Products--no guarantees, but it's definitely cheaper than a new tent.

Rainy Pass Tent Wash & Mildew Remover