With the welcome return of warmer weather, it’s time to get outside and enjoy the wonders of nature! It’s also the perfect season to schedule routine yurt maintenance.
Just like wood-framed houses or other structures, yurts need annual care to preserve their lifespan and withstand the elements. A little preventative maintenance can go a long way in keeping your yurt in great shape for years to come.
Use this guide to plan your yurt cleaning routine and keep your space looking (and functioning) its very best.
Table of Contents
- Exterior Fabric Cleaning
- Dome Cleaning
- Window Cleaning
- Touching Up Exterior Wood Surfaces
- Exterior Fabric Tensioning
- FAQs About Yurt Cleaning
- Who We Are
Yurt Cleaning Tips & Tricks
Exterior Fabric Cleaning
Over time, dirt and debris build up on the exterior fabrics of your yurt. We recommend cleaning the fabric at least once per year—or more often if needed.
How to clean the yurt fabric:
- Choose a warm, sunny day.
- Use warm, soapy water (not harsh detergents) and a soft bristle brush.
- Attach the brush to a telescopic handle to reach higher areas.
- For the roof, you can remove the dome and access the compression ring from a ladder.
- Scrub gently, rinse with clean water, and allow it to dry.
⚠️ Important: Never use a pressure washer, as this can damage protective coatings and void the fabric warranty.
Dome Cleaning
There’s nothing quite like gazing at the sky through your skylight dome. But if it’s dirty, it blocks that amazing view.
Steps to clean your yurt dome:
- Undo the springs that attach the dome to the compression ring.
- If your dome is operable, also detach the spindle.
- Tie a rope to one of the spring eyelets, then carefully slide the dome down the roof to someone waiting below.
- Rinse the inside and outside with a hose.
- If further cleaning is needed, use a soft cloth with warm, soapy water (never paper towels, which can scratch the surface).
- Rinse and let dry before reinstalling.
💡 Pro Tip: While the dome is down, clear away any cobwebs that may have collected around the compression ring over winter.
Window Cleaning
Both glass windows and vinyl fabric windows need occasional cleaning.
- Glass windows: Use standard glass cleaner or warm, soapy water with a squeegee.
- Vinyl fabric windows: Use warm, soapy water with a soft cloth (not paper towels, which can scratch).
✅ Maintenance reminder: Always roll fabric storm flaps toward the yurt wall so rainwater doesn’t pool in the roll.
Touch Up Exterior Wood Surfaces
Exposed exterior wood should be maintained with stain as needed. Areas to check include:
- Cedar siding below glass windows
- Vertical cedar trim on doors and windows
- Bottom threshold of doorways
At Shelter Designs, we apply Cabot’s Australian Timber Oil before shipping frames, so sourcing the same product ensures a perfect color match. Otherwise, test a small patch with another quality exterior finish for best results.
Exterior Fabric Tensioning
Wrinkles in your fabric wall are common in warmer months when fabric relaxes. If you notice sagging, follow these steps:
- Remove vertical cedar trim around doors and windows.
- Unscrew the fabric wall from the bender board.
- Stretch the fabric taut.
- Reattach the screws and trim.
This quick adjustment will keep your yurt looking crisp and secure.
It is well worth the small investment of time and materials to keep your yurt properly maintained and looking its best. Pick a relaxing weekend and have fun keeping your yurt in tip-top shape!
FAQs About Yurt Cleaning
How often should I clean my yurt exterior?
At least once a year. More often, if your yurt is in a dusty, wooded, or coastal environment.
Can I pressure wash my yurt?
No. Pressure washing can damage the protective coatings and void fabric warranties. Always use a soft brush and mild soapy water.
What’s the best time of year to clean my yurt?
Spring and summer are ideal, but any warm, dry day works. Avoid freezing temperatures, as water may cause damage.
What cleaning products should I avoid?
Avoid harsh detergents, bleach, or abrasive cleaners that can break down fabrics or scratch domes and windows.
Who We Are
Shelter Designs handcrafts yurts in Montana. Our yurts are meticulously crafted, offering an array of exceptional standard features, certified engineering, and unique innovations that distinguish our yurts from the rest. At Shelter Designs, our unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction ensures that we strive to produce the finest yurts for sale. Looking to get into the yurt home lifestyle? Check out our custom yurt kits for sale! Some of our innovations include the 35’ and 40’ yurt, arctic insulation, and the Eco-Yurt™, just to name a few.
