I did something similar with my friend's kite. Kite had lots and lots of loose very fine sand. I simply pumped it up in my backyard and hosed it all off with gentle pressure hose and a hand rag to remove debri. Left it out to try completely but not overnight as night brings mildew and mould. Once fully dry in the sun for 2 hours, released pressure and packed it back in the bag. It is practically new and stays newer longer. I feel even salt water can cause damage especially if left out to dry in the sun and salt crusts build up. But check with your store first. For me, just don't use soaps or any detergents and don't pack it moist or slightly wet. It has to be 100% dry.

Ride for an extra 10 min without dropping the kite at the end of your session.
Sure salt water is no good but any dampness from fresh water is worse.

If you are washing on grass in the backyard, just get some tent pegs and peg down the kite at the pump loop and wingtips.

Make sure the kite is facing the wind first, but this wil keep it in place to dry.

Good idea paradox!! Might give that a go until I get a garage :)

pomE said...

Tumble dry 'til nice and fluffy

classic!! (he's kidding btw in case any new kiters decide to try it)

i punt the misssis car out of the garage and pump mine in the garage. leave it over night and pack it away in the morning.

yea hang them deflated in shed ,but always try to land after session dry if possible ...

Tezza

Wholly crap! I hope there aren't any road trains where you are!! Looks like road train territory

Martyflyer said...

After i wash and hose my kite off i tip the kids trampoline on its side and sit the leading edge on the leg bars and wrap the front lines around the main frame and wrap the steering lines around the legs and connect them together then go and enjoy my favourite beverage but obviously my backyard is protected from the wind,wouldn't like the tramp to fly over the fence

Bloody good idea. I'll give that one a go.

Paradox said...

If you are washing on grass in the backyard, just get some tent pegs and peg down the kite at the pump loop and wingtips.

+1

+1 to just flying for a few extra minutes at the end of the session

If you must wash it at home, then make sure you have the bladders up otherwise all of the sand washes in to the gap where the canopy joins the leading edge, and that wears out the fabric.