Herbie Murray
Sleeping bags are usually made to protect against cold and damp conditions, but how do they hold up against fire? Most military and modern sleeping bags are treated with flame-retardant materials and coatings. Flame retardants are applied to fabrics to prevent or slow the spread of fire. However, some people are concerned about the chemicals used in these treatments and their potential impact on health and the environment. Some companies, such as Wiggy's, pride themselves on not using any chemicals in their sleeping bags, making them suitable for chemically sensitive people. It is important to note that even if a sleeping bag is labelled as flame retardant, it is not the same as being fireproof, and caution should still be taken when using a sleeping bag near any source of flame.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Are sleeping bags fire retardant? | Yes, sleeping bags are required to be fire retardant. |
| Flame retardancy vs. fire resistance | Fire resistance involves the structure of the material itself, e.g. tightly woven Kevlar. Flame retardancy involves treating a fabric with chemicals that allow it to self-extinguish. |
| Government regulations | The fabric burn rate of all sleeping bags must be tested. |
| Minimum acceptable burn rate | 15 cm (6 inches) per minute |
| Fabrics used | Cotton, polyester, nylon, continuous filament fiber, down, and more. |
| Environmental impact | Chemicals used in flame retardants can be harmful to the environment and find their way into aquatic systems, marine animals, and humans. |
| Alternative options | Some companies offer sleeping bags without flame retardant treatments, such as Wiggy's, Wildkin, Exped Megasleep, and Holy Lamb Organic. |
| Caution | Even flame-retardant sleeping bags will burn and should be kept away from open flames. They are not interchangeable with "fireproof." |
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What You'll Learn
Fire retardant vs fire resistant
Fire retardant and fire-resistant materials are not interchangeable terms. While both can be applied to sleeping bags, there are some key differences between the two.
Fire-Retardant Materials
Fire-retardant materials are treated with chemicals to make them resistant to fire. These chemicals allow the fabric to self-extinguish when exposed to a small flame, rather than catching alight. This means that a flying ember from a campfire, for example, won't set a fire-retardant sleeping bag alight. Fire-retardant fabric should also not melt or drip when exposed to flame. However, it's important to note that fire-retardant does not mean fireproof; if the fire is big enough, the fabric will still burn.
The chemicals used to treat fire-retardant fabrics can be harmful to both the environment and human health. For example, chemicals such as organohalogen and organophosphates can find their way into aquatic systems and marine animals, as well as into humans, where they do not break down easily.
Fire-Resistant Materials
Fire-resistant materials are made of fibres that naturally resist burning when exposed to flames. These materials can withstand incredibly high temperatures before they begin to burn, and as a result, it takes a very long time for these items to burn if a fire breaks out. Fire-resistant materials are generally more expensive than fire-retardant materials, but they may not need to be replaced as frequently.
Fire-Retardant vs Fire-Resistant
The main difference between fire-retardant and fire-resistant materials is in their production. Fire-retardant materials are treated with chemicals, while fire-resistant materials are made from fibres that are inherently resistant to fire. Fire-resistant materials also offer more protection from fire, as they not only slow the spread of flames but also deter them. This can help to lessen the damage caused by fires, as there is more time to put them out.
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Fire retardant fabric treatments
There are various tests and standards in place to assess the flammability of fabrics and the effectiveness of fire retardant treatments. For example, the American Standard Test Method of Flammability, ASTM F1955-15, is used to test the flammability of fabrics in sleeping bags. This test is similar to the one set by the Industrial Fabrics Association International (formerly known as the Canvas Products Association International), resulting in the CPAI-75 standard for sleeping bags imported into the US.
Additionally, the NFPA 701 test, mandated by the National Fire Protection Association, assesses the ignition resistance of fabrics when exposed to flames or lit embers. Fabrics that pass this test have an afterflame of less than 2 seconds and a char length of less than 6.5 inches. Another test, TB 117-2013/ASTM E1353, evaluates the fabric's performance when exposed to a lit cigarette for 45 minutes. Passing fabrics show no signs of smoldering, no open flames, and a char length of less than 1.8 inches.
It is worth noting that while flame retardant treatments enhance fire safety, some of the chemicals used have been linked to potential health and environmental concerns. For example, chemicals like organohalogen and organophosphates can find their way into aquatic systems and are not easily broken down. As a result, companies like REI have chosen to eliminate certain additives from their products and explore alternative treatments.
Despite these concerns, the use of flame retardant treatments in fabrics, including sleeping bags, is regulated by government and industry standards to ensure a minimum level of fire safety. However, it is always important to exercise caution when using a sleeping bag near any source of flame, as even flame-retardant fabrics will still burn, albeit at a slower rate.
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Fire retardant sleeping bag brands
Fire retardant sleeping bags are designed to prevent or slow the spread of fire in potentially flammable materials. While these bags are not entirely fireproof, they are required to undergo flammability tests to ensure they meet government regulations. It is important to note that even fire retardant bags should be kept away from open flames as they will still burn, but at a slower rate.
When it comes to brands, there are several options available in the market that offer fire retardant sleeping bags:
Seasonfort
Seasonfort offers a fire retardant sleeping bag that is machine washable and designed to keep you safe while sleeping near fires during camping trips. Their products are independently lab-tested to meet international standards for sleeping bags, providing comfort and safety for your family.
Wiggy's
Wiggy's is a unique brand that does not use any fire retardant chemicals on their sleeping bags. Instead, they use pure finish fabrics, making their products suitable for chemically sensitive people. Their bags are naturally fire retardant when lying flat on the ground, and they use a continuous filament fiber called Lamilite insulation, which sets them apart from other brands.
Kelty
Kelty is a brand that offers fire retardant sleeping bags. However, some sources express concerns about the potential presence of other chemicals in their products, as they are mostly manufactured in China.
REI
REI, a leading outdoor brand, has been actively addressing the issue of flame retardants in their products. They have chosen to eliminate certain additives from their branded items and use better alternatives. REI-branded tents comply with industry flammability standards, and they are working towards driving progress and re-evaluating the applicability of standards.
Other Brands
In addition to the above-mentioned brands, there are several other options available:
- Klyment
- Big Agnes
- Marmot
- Mountain Hardwear
- Nemo (known for their PFAS-free sleeping pads and bags)
- Wildkin (offers flame-retardant-free sleeping bags for kids)
- Exped (their Megasleep product is free of PFAS/PFCs and OEKO-Tex 100)
It is important to note that while these brands offer fire retardant options, it is always advisable to exercise caution when using any sleeping bag near a source of flame. Additionally, some brands may use chemicals that could potentially be harmful to people and the environment. Therefore, it is essential to research and understand the specific materials and treatments used by each brand.
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Environmental impact of fire retardants
Fire retardants are chemicals added to certain products to prevent or slow the spread of fire. While they are effective in reducing the risk of fire, some of these chemicals may have harmful effects on human health and the environment.
The environmental impact of fire retardants is a growing concern. For example, chemicals such as organohalogen and organophosphates, including polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and chlorinated tris (TDCPP), can find their way into aquatic systems, affecting marine life and humans, where they persist without breaking down easily. This has led to initiatives such as Washington's Safer Products program, which aims to identify safer alternatives to toxic flame retardants in various products.
The use of fire retardants in firefighting efforts, such as aerial spraying, has also come under scrutiny. While intended to slow fires and allow ground crews to gain control, retardants can have unintended consequences. For example, when sprayed near waterways, retardants can act as fertilizers, promoting the growth of invasive plant species that outcompete native plants, altering the natural ecosystem dynamics.
Furthermore, the potential for exposure to fire retardants extends beyond the immediate application sites. Studies have shown that these chemicals can enter the environment from treated products, impacting wildlife and ecosystems far from their initial use. This has raised concerns about the long-term effects on the environment and human health, with organizations like Greenpeace advocating for reduced reliance on toxic retardants.
To address these concerns, efforts are being made to reduce the use of toxic fire retardants. Some companies are eliminating certain additives from their products, and regulations are being implemented to limit the presence of specific retardants in consumer goods, particularly those aimed at children. Additionally, innovations in design and green chemistry are helping meet flammability standards without relying on harmful chemicals. These initiatives demonstrate a growing awareness of the environmental impact of fire retardants and a commitment to finding safer alternatives.
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Fire safety tips for sleeping bags
Fire outbreaks are a major risk when sleeping outdoors, so it's important to take precautions to ensure your safety. Here are some fire safety tips specifically related to sleeping bags:
Choose a Fire-Retardant Sleeping Bag:
Select a sleeping bag that is made from fire-retardant or fire-resistant materials. Government regulations require the fabric burn rate of sleeping bags to be tested, especially when used in proximity to campfires or cooking areas involving open flames. Look for labels or certifications indicating that the sleeping bag meets burn rate requirements. Keep in mind that "flame retardant" does not mean "fireproof," so caution should still be exercised when using these bags near flames.
Maintain a Safe Distance from Fire Sources:
Always maintain a minimum distance of 3 meters (10 feet) between your sleeping bag and any campfire or open flame. If the fire is large or the weather conditions are unfavorable, increase this distance to at least 6 meters (20 feet). This will help reduce the risk of embers landing on your sleeping bag, which could cause damage or increase the chances of ignition.
Inspect and Maintain Your Sleeping Bag:
Regularly inspect your sleeping bag for any signs of wear or damage, especially after each use. Pay close attention to seams and zippers, as these areas are more susceptible to deterioration. Proper maintenance is crucial to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your sleeping bag in terms of both comfort and fire safety.
Understand the Limitations of Emergency Sleeping Bags:
While emergency sleeping bags can provide some protection against fire due to their reflective materials, they are not designed solely for this purpose. These bags can withstand high temperatures and direct flames for a short period, but they will eventually melt or catch fire. Therefore, always use them in conjunction with other fire safety gear, such as fire blankets, and do not rely solely on their fire-resistant properties.
Consider the Outer Material and Fill of the Sleeping Bag:
The outer material of a sleeping bag plays a significant role in its flammability. Tightly woven synthetic fibers, such as nylon or polyester, don't ignite easily but may melt when exposed to high temperatures. Down-filled sleeping bags are also considered less flammable and show significant resistance to fire. Check the specifications of your sleeping bag to understand its specific characteristics and limitations.
Remember, while fire-retardant sleeping bags can provide an additional layer of protection, they should always be used in conjunction with other fire safety practices. Stay vigilant and maintain a safe distance from fire sources to minimize the risk of accidents.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, government regulations require the fabric burn rate of all sleeping bags to be tested. However, this does not mean that a sleeping bag is fireproof.
Flame or fire resistance involves the structure of the material itself, like Kevlar, which is tightly woven. Flame-retardant fabric involves treating a fabric with chemicals that allow a small flame to self-extinguish.
The minimum acceptable burn rate is 15 cm (6 inches) per minute.
Yes, Wiggy's sleeping bags are not treated with flame retardants. They use pure finish fabrics, which means there are no chemicals applied to them.
Research suggests that some flame retardant chemicals may be harmful to people and the environment.
