Herbie Murray
A Kelty sleeping bag is a worthy investment, and with the right care, it can last for years. However, accidents can happen, and tears or holes can develop in the bag. When this occurs, it is important to act quickly to prevent further damage and ensure your bag remains warm and cosy. The good news is that Kelty has a stellar repairs team that can help get your bag patched up and ready for your next adventure. In addition, there are some simple DIY repair methods you can use to fix small tears and holes. This involves sewing up the hole or using adhesive gear-repair tape to create a patch. So, whether you choose to go the professional route or try your hand at a home repair, your beloved Kelty sleeping bag can be mended and ready for many more adventures to come.
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What You'll Learn
Washing your Kelty sleeping bag
Kelty recommends spot cleaning your sleeping bag before risking any damage by fully washing it. If you do need to wash your bag, Kelty advises against dry cleaning it or putting it in a washing machine, as this can be too aggressive and increase the risk of damaging your bag. Instead, handwashing your bag is the gentler option.
To handwash your Kelty sleeping bag, you will need a clean bathtub or another large waterproof vessel. Fill the tub with cool or warm water and add the recommended amount of the appropriate soap for your bag's material. Kelty recommends Granger's Down Wash or Nikwax's Down Wash for down bags. Gently massage the bag to force the water and soap through it, being careful not to pick up the bag as this will strain the seams.
After your bag appears clean, drain the tub and carefully squeeze out the excess water. Refill the tub with clean water and knead the bag again to ensure that all the soap is rinsed out. Repeat this process until the bag is free of soap.
Once your bag is rinsed, dry it in a full-size dryer on low heat, checking frequently to avoid overheating. When the bag is nearly dry, check for clumps and gently massage them to break them up. You can also add dryer balls or a few clean tennis balls to help fluff up the bag. Ensure that your bag is completely dry before storing it to prevent mould or mildew from forming.
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Spot cleaning
Step 1: Prepare the necessary items
Get out some water, a gentle non-detergent soap, and a clean toothbrush or soft brush. The soap should be specific to down or synthetic insulation, which you can purchase from your local gear shop.
Step 2: Prepare the sleeping bag
Remove any food debris and gently separate the fabric from the insulation. Try to avoid getting the insulation wet.
Step 3: Spot wash the fabric
Fill your bathtub with warm (not hot) water and add a small amount of insulation-specific cleaner. Gently lay the bag in the water and slowly work the water and cleaner into the bag. Allow the bag to sit for around 30 minutes.
Step 4: Rinse the bag
Drain the water from the tub and gently press the excess water out of the bag. Do not pick up the bag when it is wet. Refill the tub with warm water and gently work in the fresh water to rinse the bag. Repeat this process until all the cleaner is removed.
Step 5: Dry the bag
When you've removed as much water as you can, it's time to pick up the bag. Be careful not to pick up the bag by the fabric or from above, as this can damage the seams and construction. Gather the bag and lift it from below. Carry the bag to a full-size dryer and tumble dry on low heat, checking frequently to avoid overheating. Alternatively, you can air dry the bag by laying it out on a cool, dry surface, such as a large towel or in the backyard. Partial sun is best, but avoid placing the sleeping bag in extreme heat.
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Drying your sleeping bag
Air Drying
Air drying is a gentle method to dry your sleeping bag. Start by turning the bag inside out to dry out any moisture. Hang it delicately in an area with good ventilation, limited wind, and partial sun. Avoid direct sunlight for extended periods, as UV light can degrade the fabric. If you're camping, drape the bag over your tent to air dry, keeping an eye on the wind so it doesn't blow away.
Machine Drying
If you choose to use a dryer, opt for a large front-loading machine and set it to a low heat setting. Allow ample time for drying, at least 3-5 hours, and even longer if air drying. When the bag is nearly dry, add a few clean tennis balls to help fluff up the filling and break up any clumps that may have formed.
Post-Drying Care
Before storing your sleeping bag, ensure it is completely dry to prevent mould or mildew. Lay it out flat for a day or so in a cool, dry place. Check for any remaining clumps and gently rub or pull them apart to ensure the filling is evenly distributed.
Spot Cleaning
Sometimes, a full wash is not necessary. Spot cleaning can help remove minor stains or dirt without subjecting the entire bag to the wear and tear of washing. Use a non-detergent soap and water paste and a toothbrush to gently clean small areas, focusing on the hood and collar where oils tend to accumulate. Try to avoid getting the insulation wet during spot cleaning.
Remember, always follow the manufacturer's instructions for washing and drying your sleeping bag, as different materials may have specific care requirements.
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Repairing internal damage
It is important to carefully maintain and clean your sleeping bag to keep it in good condition. In humid or wet conditions, ensure that you dry your bag by draping it over a rock or branches, or by laying it on the ground. Moisture reduces loft in down bags. Treat zippers with care and avoid yanking the slider if there is a snag. Pull out any obstructions perpendicular to the track.
When it comes to repairing internal damage to your Kelty sleeping bag, you can follow these steps:
- Choose an appropriate patch: Look for a patch that is specifically designed for sleeping bag repairs, such as Gear Aid's Tenacious Tape. This tape is lightweight, flexible, and has a strong adhesive backing that can fix holes and tears in most materials. It comes in various colors, allowing you to match it closely to the color of your sleeping bag. Alternatively, you can use a clear version that blends in with the existing color.
- Prepare the patch: Remove the bottom layer of the patch, exposing the adhesive side. Carefully stick the patch to the sleeping bag fabric, centering it over the hole or tear. Ensure that there are no wrinkles in the fabric, as too many wrinkles can affect the adhesion and durability of the patch.
- Apply pressure: Once the patch is in place, use your hand to apply firm and even pressure, especially around the edges, to ensure that it is securely adhered to the sleeping bag fabric.
- Remove the top layer of the patch: After applying pressure, peel off the top protective layer of the patch. Apply additional pressure again to ensure that the patch is firmly in place.
- Address feathers and stuffing: If there are feathers or stuffing coming out of the tear, gently shove them back inside the sleeping bag. Smooth out any remaining wrinkles in the fabric to the best of your ability.
By following these steps, you can effectively repair internal damage to your Kelty sleeping bag using a patch. Remember to always carry a patch kit with you, especially if you have an inflatable sleeping pad, as it can be a quick and easy solution for unexpected tears or holes during your outdoor adventures.
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Trimming frayed edges and patching
First, ensure that the area around the rip is clean and dry. Cut away any frayed edges to create a neat and tidy surface for your patch to adhere to. If you have a sizeable rip, consider using a larger fabric patch or multiple patches to adequately cover the affected area. For smaller holes or seam splits, use a fabric patch or Tenacious Tape cut to size, ensuring it's at least half an inch larger than the rip on all sides.
You can then sew or adhere the patch in place. If the rip is along a seam, pin the edges together and use a straight stitch along the original seam line, backstitching at both ends for added reinforcement. Alternatively, you can use adhesive or seam sealant, especially useful for nylon and down bags. If using adhesive, follow the manufacturer's instructions for curing time.
Once your patch or sewing job is complete, carefully inspect your work. To prevent future rips, always handle your sleeping bag gently and avoid placing sharp objects near it. When storing your sleeping bag, use a breathable cotton or mesh sack instead of compressing it in its stuff sack. Proper care and maintenance will ensure your sleeping bag lasts for many seasons.
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