Miya Pearson
Sleeping bags should be cleaned and maintained properly to ensure they last longer and keep you warm. MEC sleeping bags can be washed, but special care must be taken to avoid damage. While regular washing is not necessary, it is important to address significant dirt, mud, or a decrease in warmth. Spot washing is recommended to prolong the life of the sleeping bag, focusing on soiled areas with a mild soap or down cleaner and avoiding the insulation. When machine washing, a front-loading machine with a gentle cycle should be used, and fabric softener and bleach must be avoided. Drying a sleeping bag requires a large dryer on the lowest heat setting, and it may be beneficial to use tennis balls to improve loft. Proper storage is also crucial, allowing the bag to air dry completely before storing it loosely in a cloth sack or mesh bag.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Frequency of washing | Only wash when it gets really dusty, muddy, or stops keeping you warm |
| Spot washing | Use a paste of soap and water, then gently clean the soiled fabric, rinse, and air-dry |
| Full wash | Use a front-loading machine with a gentle cycle, and a down cleaner |
| Drying | Dry on the lowest heat setting in a large dryer, or air-dry |
| Storage | Hang the bag using the loops on the footbox, ensure it is completely dry before storing |
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What You'll Learn
- Washing machine settings: Use a front-loading machine with a gentle cycle and high-speed spin
- Handwashing: Fill a large container with lukewarm water and mild soap, then submerge and soak the bag
- Drying: Use a large dryer on the lowest heat setting
- Spot washing: For less dirty bags, clean only the soiled spots to reduce wear and tear
- Maintenance: Air out your sleeping bag daily and store it properly to keep it clean and make it last longer
Washing machine settings: Use a front-loading machine with a gentle cycle and high-speed spin
When washing MEC sleeping bags, it is recommended to use a front-loading washing machine with a gentle cycle and a high-speed spin. Front-loading washers are essential when cleaning MEC sleeping bags as top-loading machines with a central agitator can cause damage to the bag.
Using a gentle cycle is crucial to avoid putting the bag through unnecessary wear and tear, which can shorten its lifespan. A gentle cycle also helps to prevent the fibres from clumping together, which can happen when the bag is spun at high speeds.
To ensure the bag is thoroughly cleaned, it is advisable to follow the instructions on a specialised down cleaner bottle. Using a down cleaner will prevent clumping and help restore the bag's loft. Additionally, consider using a second rinse cycle if possible, followed by at least a couple of spin cycles to remove as much water as possible.
The high-speed spin cycle is particularly important as it helps to drive out excess water. By removing more water during the spin cycle, you reduce the risk of damage to the bag seams and inner baffles that can occur when the wet filling is heavy. A high-speed spin cycle also significantly reduces drying time, which can take several hours otherwise.
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Handwashing: Fill a large container with lukewarm water and mild soap, then submerge and soak the bag
MEC sleeping bags can be hand washed. To do so, fill a large container, such as a sink or bathtub, with lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild soap or down cleaner. Completely submerge the sleeping bag in the water and push it up and down a few times to create suds before letting it soak. If there are any soiled areas on the shell fabric, use a sponge to scrub them.
After soaking the bag, drain the soapy water from the container and press as much water out of the bag as possible. Avoid twisting or wringing out the bag, as this can cause the fibres to clump together and may tear the fabric. Instead, a plastic laundry basket can be used as a "strainer" to remove excess water.
Once the bag has been drained, it should be carefully moved to the dryer, cradled like a baby to avoid tearing the fabric or stitching. Dry the bag on the lowest heat setting, which can take a few hours. Ensure the bag is completely dry before storing it away.
Handwashing is not the only option for cleaning MEC sleeping bags, as they can also be machine washed or spot washed for more minor stains.
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Drying: Use a large dryer on the lowest heat setting
When it comes to drying your MEC sleeping bag, it's important to take a cautious approach to ensure you don't damage the fabric or compromise its insulating properties. Using a large dryer with the lowest heat setting is a recommended option. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Preparing the Sleeping Bag for Drying
Before placing your MEC sleeping bag in the dryer, it's crucial to ensure that you've drained as much water as possible from it. You can do this by gently pressing or squeezing the bag without twisting or wringing it out, as this can cause the fibres to clump together or tear the fabric. A plastic laundry basket can be useful for supporting the bag while draining.
Choosing the Right Dryer Settings
Set the dryer to its lowest heat setting. This gentle approach will help prevent damage to the sleeping bag's fabric and insulation. The duration of the drying process will depend on the dryer model and the dampness of the sleeping bag. It can take a few hours, so be prepared for a lengthy drying cycle.
Monitoring the Drying Process
Keep an eye on the dryer's moisture sensor if it has one. Some dryers will automatically adjust the cycle time based on the moisture levels detected. If your dryer has an analog timer knob, it may hold the knob in place until the sensor detects that the sleeping bag is mostly dry, then release it to resume slow turning for a while longer.
Avoiding High Heat Settings
Resist the temptation to use a higher heat setting to speed up the drying process. The regular/heavy mode, which is the hottest setting, should be avoided as it can be harsh on the fabric and set in any stains. This setting is best reserved for sturdy items like towels and heavy cotton clothing.
Drying Techniques for Delicate Items
Sleeping bags are considered delicate items, similar to chiffon or sportswear, and should be treated with care. The delicate setting on your dryer, often paired with low heat, is ideal for such items. If your dryer offers an "Air Only" or "No Heat" setting, you can use that as well, but be aware that this is primarily for fluffing fabrics and removing dust rather than thoroughly drying them.
Remember, always refer to the manufacturer's care instructions attached to your MEC sleeping bag. If their recommendations differ from general advice, always follow their specific guidelines for your sleeping bag.
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Spot washing: For less dirty bags, clean only the soiled spots to reduce wear and tear
Spot washing is a great way to clean minor stains or dirt from your MEC sleeping bag without putting it through a full wash cycle. This method helps to reduce wear and tear and can make your sleeping bag last longer. It is also a quick and easy process that can be done by anyone.
Firstly, if there are any solid materials or residue on the sleeping bag, gently wipe them away. This will make the cleaning process easier and prevent the stain from setting in further. You can use a clean, dry cloth rag or a disposable towel to do this. Ensure that the cloth or towel is white to prevent any dye from transferring onto the sleeping bag.
Next, create a cleaning solution by mixing a small amount of mild soap or detergent with lukewarm water. Avoid using bleach as it can damage the fabric and cause discolouration. Instead, opt for a gentle, low-chemical liquid laundry soap or a white vinegar and water solution. Dip your cloth into this solution and gently rub or dab it onto the soiled areas of the sleeping bag. You can also use a soft toothbrush to gently work the cleaning agent into the stain.
After treating the stain, use a dampened cloth without soap to "rinse" the spot and remove any excess soap. If the stain persists, you can try the soap and damp cloth method again, working from both sides of the fabric. Finally, use a dry cloth to absorb any remaining water and let the sleeping bag air-dry completely before storing it away.
Remember to always follow the manufacturer's care instructions for your sleeping bag. Spot washing is a gentle and effective way to clean minor stains and dirt, helping to extend the life of your MEC sleeping bag.
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Maintenance: Air out your sleeping bag daily and store it properly to keep it clean and make it last longer
To keep your MEC sleeping bag clean and make it last longer, it is important to air it out daily and store it properly.
Airing Out Your Sleeping Bag
Daily airing out of your sleeping bag is recommended. During breakfast, unzip your bag and lay it over your tent so any condensation can dry before you pack it away.
Storing Your Sleeping Bag
Storing your sleeping bag properly will help it last longer. When you get home from your trip, unzip the bag and hang it in a dry, temperature-controlled area to air it out and ensure it is completely dry. You can use a hanger or drape it over a couch or a door. Avoid direct sunlight, as UV rays can weaken the fabric. Turning the bag inside out for the first 4 hours and then flipping it back for another 4 hours will aid the drying process.
Once your bag is completely dry, you can store it in a cool, dry place. It is best to use a large cotton or mesh sack, or a pillowcase, to loosely store your sleeping bag. This allows the bag to breathe and maintains its original shape. Do not store your sleeping bag in its stuff sack or a compression sack, as this will damage the fill over time and cause it to lose its loft, or fluffiness.
Additional Maintenance Tips
To further prolong the life of your sleeping bag and reduce the need for frequent washing, consider using a sleeping bag liner. Liners are lightweight and act as a barrier to protect your bag from sweat, body oils, and dirt. They also add warmth on cold nights. Additionally, always sleep in clean clothes and avoid cooking in the clothes you plan to sleep in, as food odours can attract wildlife.
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Frequently asked questions
If your sleeping bag is very dirty, dusty, muddy, or it stops keeping you warm, it's time to wash it.
MEC does not recommend dry cleaning or bleaching your sleeping bag. If possible, spot washing is preferable to a full wash as it prolongs the life of the bag. To spot wash, make a paste of soap and water, and gently clean the soiled area. Rinse it carefully and let it air dry. For a full wash, use a front-loading washing machine with a gentle cycle. Before washing, close all zippers and Velcro attachments. Fill the machine with lukewarm water and a small amount of mild soap or down cleaner. Submerge the sleeping bag, then let it soak. Drain the soapy water, and press as much water out of the bag as possible without twisting or wringing. Cradle your wet sleeping bag as you move it to the dryer. Dry on the lowest heat setting.
Properly caring for your sleeping bag means you won't need to wash it very often. To keep it in good condition, air out your sleeping bag daily when you're using it, and always air it out and make sure it's completely dry before storing it.
Do not use a top-loading washing machine with a central agitator, as this can cause damage. Do not use fabric softener, as it will damage the down fibres.
