[header] How to fold up a pop up tent [title] Clean the tent before you begin folding. [step] Most of the time, all you'll need to do is shake out dirt, sand, and pine needles. While you can attempt this later, the debris can get stuck in the tent folds. 
Tip the tent to pour out the debris. Wipe down the tent with a little bit of powdered laundry detergent and a moist rag when you have time.