How To Care For Your Coleman Lantern

How often do you clean your Coleman lantern? A cleaner Coleman lantern works better and looks better.

The benefits of proper care and regular cleanings include better fuel efficiency, flame control and no rust or corrosion. Here’s how to care for your Coleman lantern to give it a longer lifespan.

Cleaning

Although there isn't a set schedule for cleaning your lantern, you should clean it whenever it is dirty and before storing your lantern at the end of camping season.

Under most conditions, lanterns can be wiped out with warm water and dishwashing soap and then dried before storing.

Storage

Put it into a plastic bag, sealing with a twist tie to prevent spiders or other insects from crawling in the unit, which can block the fuel and airflow.

Liquid Fuel Lanterns

With a liquid fuel lantern, transfer as much fuel as possible out of the fuel tank and back into the fuel can to prevent a lacquer buildup on the tank's fuel tube. Keep in mind that storing a liquid fuel appliance with fuel in the tank can eventually cause a buildup on the fuel tube, which restricts fuel flow to the generator and burner.

When it's time to take out your lantern, remember to oil the pump cup on the tank's pump plunger at least twice a year with a light machine oil. Pump cups are usually leather or rubber and can become dry if not oiled regularly. Oiling the pump cup allows the cup to seal against the inside of the pump barrel. Without a good seal, the tank will not be able to prime to have enough pressure for a good flame.