The Best Non Toxic Tents for Healthier Camping

By /

Sleeping inside a camping tent can also mean exposing yourself to chemicals like PFAs, PFCs and flame retardant VOCs. In this article, we’ve put together a list of the best non toxic tents, from 2-person to 6-person shelters made with as few chemicals as possible.

Table of Contents hide
What’s a Non Toxic Tent?
What to Look for in a Non Toxic Tent
2-Person Non Toxic Tents
3-Person Non Toxic Tents
6-Person Non Toxic Tents
Why Choose a Non Toxic Tent?
History of Fire-Retardant Chemicals in Tents
Tent Materials, Toxicity and Environmental Impact
2016 Duke University Study on Flame Retardants in Backpacking Tents
Eco-Friendly Certifications
Non Toxic Tent FAQs
Additional Information, Studies, Resources on Non Toxic Tents
Conclusion

What’s a Non Toxic Tent?

Have you ever purchased a new tent and smelled a faintly chemical odor? This is known as off-gassing, which are chemicals used to treat the tent being slowly released into the air. These chemicals can be toxic, and you want to keep them out of your environment as much as possible.

A non toxic tent, on the other hand, is made with as few toxic substances as possible. This is done to reduce off-gassing and the harmful chemicals that you come in contact with. Off-gassing can even cause health problems in some people, including symptoms like headaches, allergies, dizziness and fatigue.

What to Look for in a Non Toxic Tent

Here’s a checklist of key features to look for when choosing a non toxic tent:

  • Flame Retardant-Free tent fabrics from brands like Fjallraven, NEMO, and Big Agnes that are committed to making non toxic tents.
  • Eco-Friendly Dyes made with water-based dyes.
  • Chemical-Free Fabrics to reduce off-gassing and exposure to potentially harmful chemicals.
  • DAC Tent Poles aluminum alloy poles made without phosphoric and nitric acid.
  • Silicone-based waterproofing made without polyethylene (PU) coatings, which contain VOCs.
  • Eco Friendly Certifications like bluesign®, OEKO-TEX, Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), and Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS) to verify that the tent is made with eco-friendly materials and manufacturing.

Note: the tents below are made without flame retardants. However, some of the tents contain waterproofing chemicals and dyes.

2-Person Non Toxic Tents

The North Face Stormbreak Tent

The North Face Stormbreak Tent is durable, waterproof from the top to the tent floor, and relatively lightweight for a tent of this size.

The North Face Stornbreak Non Toxic Tent

NEMO Dagger OSMO

The NEMO Dagger OSMO’s spacious design and superior ventilation make it pleasantly livable and well-suited for long excursions.

NEMO Dragonfly Osmo with Rainfly door open
  • Design: Freestanding
  • Capacity: 2 person
  • Seasons: 3
  • Doors / Vestibules: 2
  • Minimum Trail Weight: 3 pounds, 6 ounces
  • Floor Dimensions: 7.5 feet by 4.17 feet
  • Floor Area: 31.3 square feet
  • Vestibule Area: 11.4 + 11.4 square feet
  • Peak Height: 3.5 feet
  • Shop NEMO $529
  • Shop Amazon $474 (Sale)
  • Shop REI $474 (Sale)

NEMO Aurora 2

The NEMO Aurora 2 is a lightweight backpacking tent optimized for travel.

NEMO Aurora 2 Non Toxic Tent
  • Design: Freestanding
  • Capacity: 2 person
  • Seasons: 3
  • Doors / Vestibules: 2
  • Minimum Trail Weight: 4 pounds, 11 ounces
  • Floor Dimensions: 7.3 feet by 4.4 feet
  • Vestibule Area: 9.2 + 9.2 square feet
  • Peak Height: 3.6 feet
  • Shop Backcountry $299
  • Shop NEMO $299
  • Shop Amazon $299

Mountain Hardwear Mineral King 2

The Mountain Hardwear Mineral King 2 is budget-friendly tent that’s lightweight and spacious.

Mountain Hardwear Mineral King 2 Tent: 2-Person 3-Season
  • Design: Freestanding
  • Capacity: 2 person
  • Seasons: 3
  • Doors / Vestibules: 2
  • Minimum Trail Weight: 5 pounds, 2.7 ounces
  • Floor Dimensions: 7.3 feet by 4.5 feet
  • Vestibule Area: 18.3 square feet
  • Peak Height: 3.5 feet
  • Shop REI $226 (Sale)
  • Shop Backcountry $206 (Sale)

3-Person Non Toxic Tents

Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 Bikepack Tent

The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 Bikepack Tent is a lightweight tent designed for carrying on a bicycle.

Copper Spur Non Toxic Tent

Mountain Hardwear Aspect 3 Tent

The Mountain Hardwear Aspect 3 Tent is spacious and lightweight, with a user-friendly setup.

  • Design: Freestanding
  • Capacity: 3 Person
  • Seasons: 3
  • Doors / Vestibule: 2
  • Minimum Trail Weight: 3 pounds, 10.7 ounces
  • Peak Height: 3.6 feet
  • Floor Dimensions: 7.5 feet by 5.6 feet
  • Vestibule Dimensions: 18.75 square feet
  • Shop REI $405 (Sale)
  • Shop Backcountry $579

6-Person Non Toxic Tents

Big Agnes Bunk House 6P

The Big Agnes Bunk House 6P is a large family tent with big front vestibule and shelter mode option.

Big Agnes Bunk House Non Toxic Tent
  • Design: Freestanding
  • Capacity: 6 person
  • Seasons: 3
  • Doors / Vestibules: 2
  • Minimum Trail Weight: 18 pounds, 6 ounces
  • Packed Size: 27.5 x 17 x 7.5 inches
  • Floor Dimensions: 9.8 feet by 8.3 feet
  • Peak Height: 6.5 feet
  • Vestibule Area: 56 square feet
  • Shop REI $419 (Sale)
  • Shop Backcountry $489
  • Shop Amazon $510

The North Face Wawona 6

The North Face Wawona 6 is one of the best family tents on the market, with a double-wall design and extra storage space, it feels more like a house than a tent.

North Face Wawona 6 Non Toxic Tent Without Flame Retardants
  • Design: Freestanding
  • Capacity: 6 Person
  • Seasons: 3
  • Doors / Vestibules: 2
  • Weight: 19 pounds, 4 ounces
  • Dimensions: 10 x 8 feet
  • Peak Height: 6.5 feet
  • Vestibule Area: 44.7 square feet
  • Check Prices on REI
  • Shop $500 on Amazon

NEMO Aurora 6P

The NEMO Aurora 6P has a large, comfortable living space, with extra headspace for upright standing, and large, protected side windows for great ventilation and beautiful views of nature.

Nemo Aurora 6P Non Toxic Tent
  • Capacity: 6 person
  • Seasons: 3
  • Weight: 18 pounds, 14 ounces
  • Doors / Vestibules: 2
  • Peak Height: 6.1 feet
  • Floor Dimensions: 10 feet by 8.3 feet
  • Material: Polyester
  • Shop NEMO $499
  • Shop Amazon $499

Alpkit Roundhouse

The Alpkit Roundhouse is a luxurious, spacious shelter made for glamping, with an organic poly-cotton shell that significantly improves air quality and ventilation inside the tent.

Alpkit Roundhouse Non Toxic Tent
  • Capacity: 6 person
  • Seasons: 3
  • Weight: 26.94 pounds
  • Doors / Vestibules: 2
  • Peak Height: 9.84 feet
  • Floor Area: 6.56 feet diameter
  • Check Prices on Alpkit

Hyperlite UltraMid

The Hyperlite UltraMid is one of the lightest backpacking tents, at only 1.7 pounds, with a shell made from 100% waterproof Dyneema® composite fabric, a fabric that is stronger and longer lasting that carbon fiber.

Hyperlite Ultamid Non Toxic Tent
  • Capacity: 2 person
  • Seasons: 3
  • Doors / Vestibule: 1
  • Poles: 1
  • Weight: 1 pound, 7.7 ounces
  • Peak Height: 5 feet, 4 inches
  • Floor Dimensions: 6.9 feet by 8.9 feet
  • Material: Dyneema Composite Fiber (DCF) fabric
  • Check Prices on Hyperlite

Alpkit Tetri

The Alpkit Tetri’s unique geodesic, three-pole design make it sturdy and well-equipped for all types of weather.

Tetri Non Toxic Tent
  • Capacity: 2 person
  • Seasons: 3
  • Doors / Vestibules: 1
  • Weight: 6.6 pounds
  • Floor Dimensions: 10.5 feet by 4.83 feet
  • Peak Height: 3.5 feet
  • Check Prices on ALPKIT

Lucky Sheep Organic Cotton Canvas Tent

Lucky Sheep’s canvas tent made from organic cotton harkens back to old school tents of yore, with breathable, non-toxic fabric coated with beeswax for waterproofing.

Lucky Sheep Organic Cotton Canvas Tent
  • Capacity: 2 person
  • Seasons: 3
  • Doors / Vestibules: 1
  • Weight: 6.6 pounds (3 kilograms)
  • Floor Dimensions: 10 foot diameter
  • Check Prices on Lucky Sheep

Why Choose a Non Toxic Tent?

Choosing a non-toxic tent have a number of health and environmental benefits. Here are some key advantages:

  • Reduces Your Exposure to Chemicals: Choosing a non-toxic tent reduces exposure to harmful chemicals, like flame retardant chemicals and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). As reported by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, VOC compounds are linked with health issues, including breathing difficulties, skin irritation, and effects on the nervous and reproductive systems.
  • Improves Air Quality Inside the Tent: Choosing a non-toxic tent can help you avoid the strong chemical smell that can sometimes happens in tents, called “off-gassing.” This improves the breathability and airflow inside your tent.
  • Minimizes Environmental Effects: Non-toxic tents are constructed with sustainable materials, including recycled polyester and canvas. They also contain as few toxic chemicals as possible, making the manufacturing process less damaging to the soil and groundwater.
  • Increase Your Peace of Mind: Choosing a non-toxic tent demonstrates that you’ve made the decision to prioritize your health and the environment. It’s a real-world step towards a more sustainable camping experience.

We spoke with expert Daniela Rodriguez at ConsumerNotice.org, who provided the following information:

“Traditional tents often utilize a coating of polyurethane combined with a layer of harmful synthetic chemicals known as ‘durable water repellents’ (DWRs), which are derived from per and polyfluoroalkyl substances.

These PFAS, often referred to as ‘forever chemicals,’ are prevalent in numerous consumer goods but pose significant toxicity concerns.

They exhibit persistence in both the environment and our bodies, elevating the potential for adverse health effects such as liver damage, thyroid disorders, fertility issues, and an increased risk of cancer.”

For these reasons, opting for a non toxic tent made without, or with minimal, chemical additives reduces exposure to forever chemicals, and helps to keep these substances out of the natural environment.

History of Fire-Retardant Chemicals in Tents

In 1976, the U.S. government passed the “Toxic Substances Control Act“. Ironically, instead of banning dangerous chemicals as the name would imply, these rules required tents to have special flame retardant chemicals.

The goal was to reduce the chance of tents catching fire and to keep campers safe. This was a big deal at the time because circus tents were covered in paraffin, which is highly flammable.

These fire safety rules, which were helpful about 40 years ago, haven’t really changed over time. It’s a bit like still using a cassette player when everyone’s streaming music on Spotify.

In the past, tents were made from materials that could easily catch fire, but these days, thanks to the progress in material science, tents are much less likely to do so.

Yet, the old safety rules still apply, which means modern tents are often treated with the same fire-resistant chemicals as before.

What are the Most Common Types of Flame-Retardant Chemicals?

These come in a large number of variations and are frequently classified according to whether they contain bromine, chlorine, phosphorus, nitrogen, metals, or boron.

  • Brominated FR chemical (BFRs): Often found in electronics, furniture, and building materials. BFRs can cause endocrine disruption and other health effects in humans.
  • Organophosphates FR chemical (OPFRs): Most commonly found in camping tents, long-term exposure to OPFRs can cause a number of health effects, including neurological problems, depression, headaches, diarrhea, and nausea.
  • Tetrabromobisphenol A FR chemical (TBBPAs): Typically used to make computer electronics, TBBPAs can cause toxicity in reproductive organs and the brain, and disruption of the endocrine system.
  • Polybrominated diphenyl ethers FR chemical (PBDEs): Commonly found in furniture and electronics and easily inhaled in the air and dust. PBDEs may reduce infant birth weight, as well as impact brain development. US manufacturers of these chemicals voluntarily stopped making and importing them in 2004 and 2009. The FDA created a rule in 2012 to completely stop the importation of PBDEs.
  • Hexabromocyclododecane FR chemical (HBCDs): Often found in foam products, HBCDs can have negative reproductive, developmental and neurological health effects in humans.

Health Statistics on Fire Retardant Chemicals

  • According to the non-profit Eco Center, exposure to FR chemicals have been linked to health problems, including neurological, reproductive, and immune system effects.
  • According to the EPA, flame retardant chemicals can leach out of products over time and accumulate in dust and air, increasing exposure to people and wildlife.
  • The World Health Organization has identified several flame retardant chemicals, including polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), as persistent organic pollutants that can pose a threat to human health and the environment.

Tent Materials, Toxicity and Environmental Impact

TABLE 1: Common Tent Materials, Toxicity and Environmental Impact

MaterialToxicityEnvironmental Impact
PolyesterCan contain harmful chemicals such as phthalates and PFCs used in waterproofing treatments, which can have severe consequences for health and the environment.Polyester is a synthetic material made from petroleum, which is not biodegradable and contributes to pollution. However, some companies are using recycled polyester to reduce environmental impact
NylonCan contain harmful chemicals such as PFCs used in waterproofing treatments.Nylon is a synthetic material made from petroleum, which is not biodegradable and contributes to pollution. However, some companies are using recycled nylon to reduce environmental impact
CanvasCanvas is a natural material made from cotton or hemp, which is less toxic than synthetic materials. However, it can still contain harmful chemicals such as pesticides and fungicides used in farming.Cotton farming requires a lot of water and pesticides, which can have negative environmental impacts. Hemp is more sustainable than cotton because it requires less water and pesticides
Organic CottonOrganic cotton is grown without the use of harmful pesticides and fertilizers, making it less toxic than conventional cotton.Cotton farming requires a lot of water and pesticides, which can have negative environmental impacts. However, organic cotton farming is more sustainable than conventional cotton farming because it uses less water and does not use harmful chemicals
HempHemp is a natural material that is less toxic than synthetic materials. It is grown without the use of harmful pesticides and fertilizers, making it more sustainable than conventional cotton.Hemp requires less water and pesticides than cotton, making it more sustainable than cotton
Eco-Friendly AlternativesSome companies are using eco-friendly alternatives such as recycled polyester and nylon, organic cotton, and hemp to reduce environmental impact and toxicity levels.Eco-friendly alternatives are more sustainable than conventional materials because they use fewer resources and do not contain harmful chemicals

2016 Duke University Study on Flame Retardants in Backpacking Tents

In a 2016 report by Duke University, “Characterizing Flame Retardant Applications and Potential Human Exposure in Tents”, scientists revealed that humans interact with significant amounts of flame retardants when they use backpacking tents.

“The researchers tested the air space inside 15 different tents for a set of known flame retardants. Based on their measurements, the researchers estimated that campers sleeping for eight hours inside the tents could potentially inhale compound levels ranging from a few nano-grams per kilogram of bodyweight to 400 nanograms per kilogram of bodyweight.”

  • Genna Gomes, a doctoral student at Duke and principal author of the research paper Characterizing Flame Retardant Applications and Potential Human Exposure in Backpacking Tents, sought to determine if flame retardant chemicals inhaled while camping could be absorbed into the body.
  • Twenty volunteers were asked to to erect tents made in 2014 and tested to contain organophosphate flame retardants (OPFRs). All the tents used in the study fulfilled the CPAI-84 flame resistance standard.
  • The participants’ hands were swabbed by the researchers before and after they put up the tents, and each swab was analyzed for OPFRs. They evaluated each tent for four different OPFRs before having volunteers put the tents together.
  • After erecting the tents, the volunteers had significantly more OPFRs on their hands than before, in some instances up to 29 times more of one particular chemical, TDCIPP.
  • While the quantities of OPFR chemicals found were very small – millionths to hundred-millionths of a gram – consistent exposure can cause these chemicals to accumulate in the body over time.
  • Children in particular appear to absorb these chemicals more readily because they tend to be more tactile, frequently touching surfaces and other objects.
  • The study was published in Environmental Science & Technology, “Characterizing Flame Retardant Applications and Potential Human Exposure in Tents.”

Eco-Friendly Certifications

TABLE 2: Certifications

Certification NameKey CriteriaDescription
Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)Prohibits the use of certain substances, including chemical flame retardants and limits on the emission of harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as well as a variety of hazardous chemicals, pesticides, phthalates, lead, arsenic, and other heavy metals. Lays out percentage requirements for how much of a product must be certified organic.GOTS is a certification standard for textiles that ensures products are produced without harmful chemicals and with minimal impact on the environment.
OEKO-TEX Standard 100Limits the levels of chemicals allowed in certified products depending on what type of product it is. Certain flame retardant chemicals are not allowed.OEKO-TEX Standard 100 is a certification standard for textiles that ensures products are free of harmful substances and safe for human use.
REACHRequires companies to register and report information on the use of chemicals in their products. Restricts the use of certain hazardous chemicals.REACH is a European Union regulation that aims to protect human health and the environment from the risks posed by chemicals.
BluesignEnsures that products are produced with minimal impact on people and the environment. Limits the use of harmful substances in production processes4.Bluesign is a certification standard for textiles that ensures products are produced sustainably and with minimal impact on the environment.
GreenGuard GoldLimits emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from products to improve indoor air quality5.GreenGuard Gold is a certification standard for indoor air quality that ensures products emit low levels of harmful chemicals.

Non Toxic Tent FAQs

Why should you buy a non toxic tent?

The health risk of fire retardants may significantly outweigh the protection they offer. The health effects of these chemicals may include kidney and liver cancers, neurological damage, respiratory illnesses, reproductive toxicity and fetal development.

Which certifications should non-toxic tents have?

Non-toxic tents should have safety and environmental certifications like MADE SAFE, Forest Stewardship Council Certification, OEKO-TEX, Environmental Working Group (EWG), bluesign, UL GREENGUARD, and Design for the Environment (DfE).

What are flame-retardants?

The term “flame retardants” , also known as “fr chemicals”, refers to a family of chemicals added to flammable materials to prevent or delay the spread of fire. These chemicals are added to fabric in different parts of the tent, including the rainfly, canopy and floor.

Why are flame retardants dangerous?

The health risk of flame retardants may include kidney and liver cancers, neurological damage, respiratory illnesses, reproductive toxicity and fetal development problems. US states like Massachusetts, Maine and New Hampshire have started banning specific FR chemicals. Several flame retardants have been completely banned in Europe, and a larger ban of chemicals in the EU was done in 2022.

Why do tents have Prop 65 warning?

“Proposition 65”, also known as the Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986, is a California law that requires a warning on products that contain specific toxic chemicals, like flame retardants. Tents made with fire retardants (which are actually banned in the state of California) are required to have a Prop 65 label.

What are the most common complaints about the Big Agnes Bunk House 6P?

Common complaints on about the BA Bunk House are the fact that despite technically being a 6 person tent, it comfortably fits about 4 adults, it has less vestibule space compared to tents like the Marmot Halo, and it’s pricier than similar other options in this capacity range. Also, this tent is heavier and bulkier, making it harder to transport and more time consuming to setup.

What are the most popular features of the Big Agnes Bunk House 6P?

Big Agnes campers love the Bunk House for its spacious layout, fast-fly rainfly that doubles as a shaded enclosure, high peak height of 80 inches, bonus features like a welcome mat and backpacks straps for easier transport.

What are the most popular features of the North Face Stormbreak?

According to Reddit users, the best features of the Stormbreak are its durable construction, roomy interior, and easy setup process, with only 2 poles to support the entire shelter.

What are the most common complaints about the North Face Stormbreak?

The most common customer complaints about the Stormbreak 3 person tent are condensation buildup inside the tent, zipper malfunctions, and weight for backpackers who want a truly lightweight option for this tent.

What are the most common complaints about the North Face Wawona 6?

The customer complaints about the Wawona 6 tent are that the rainfly only partially covers half the tent, which could lead to leaks in rainy weather, the mesh only door between the vestibule and sleeping area doesn’t give campers privacy, the vestibule floor doesn’t have a very thick layer, and the zipper design that is prone to binding with the fabric if unzipped quickly with one hand.

What are the most popular features of the North Face Wawona 6?

Customers love the Wawona 6’s super spacious interior and roomy vestibules – these features add a sense of luxury and comfort because campers can really sprawl out.

Do flame retardants stop a tent from becoming flammable?

Flame retardants DO NOT stop a tent from becoming flammable. Regardless of whether they have been sprayed with a fire retardant chemical, all tents exposed to an open flame will burn. No such thing as a fireproof tent exists.

What steps are taken to minimize off-gassing from materials used in non-toxic tents?

Off-gassing is the process of releasing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air from everyday products. To minimize off-gassing from materials used in non-toxic tents, it is recommended to choose materials that are low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Are non-toxic tents easy to recycle?

Some tent materials like nylon or polyester can be recycled. However, tents with mixed-materials or silicone may not be recyclable. You also have the option of giving an old tent away to non profits like Tents4Homeless, and Teens to Trails.

Additional Information, Studies, Resources on Non Toxic Tents

Conclusion

When it comes to camping, choosing the right tent isn’t just about comfort—it’s also about keeping chemicals out of your environment! After all, the getting closer to nature is supposed to be a healthy experience, right?

Related Posts

Sources:

Scroll to Top