Miya Pearson
Keeping your Kelty down sleeping bag clean is important for maintaining its insulating power and longevity. While it is recommended to spot clean and air out your bag, there may be times when a full wash is necessary. When that time comes, it is important to be gentle to avoid damaging the seams and construction. Hand washing in a bathtub or using a front-loading commercial washer at a laundromat with a gentle, non-detergent soap designed for down are the best options. After washing, thoroughly rinse the bag at least twice to remove any soap residue, and gently squeeze out the excess water. Finally, dry the bag on low heat in a full-size dryer or air dry it in a cool, dry location with good ventilation and limited wind and sun. With proper care, your Kelty down sleeping bag will last for many adventures to come!
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How often to wash | Once a year, or more often if used frequently |
| When to wash | Before storing for an extended period, or at the end of the season |
| How to prevent washing | Sleep in clean clothes, use a bag liner, spot clean, air out |
| How to wash | Hand wash in a bathtub, or use a large commercial washer at a laundromat |
| Soap | Use a gentle, non-detergent soap, specific to down or synthetic insulation |
| Drying | Air dry or tumble dry on low heat, using tennis balls to break up clumps |
| Storage | Loose storage in a cotton or mesh sack, pillowcase, or homemade cotton bag |
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What You'll Learn
Spot cleaning and airing out
When it comes to drying your bag, Kelty recommends tumble drying on low heat, checking the bag frequently to avoid overheating. If your bag is down, you may need to gently massage the down clumps apart. If you choose to air dry your bag, Kelty suggests draping it over your tent and allowing it to dry in mild sun. Keep an eye on the weather, as your bag may blow away in strong winds. Alternatively, lay the bag out on a cool, dry surface in an area with good ventilation, limited wind, and partial sun. Avoid placing the bag in extreme heat.
While it is recommended to spot clean and air out your sleeping bag, fully washing it may be necessary at times. If this is the case, Kelty recommends hand washing or sending it to a facility with industrial-sized washers. If you choose to hand wash, use a clean bathtub or other large waterproof vessel, and follow the same steps as for spot cleaning. When drying, be sure to get all the clumps out and ensure your bag is fully dry before storing to prevent mould or mildew from forming.
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Hand washing
Once the soap is dissolved, gently lower the sleeping bag into the water and knead it to force the water and soap through it. Be sure not to pick up the bag during this process, as it will put too much strain on the seams. After it seems clean, drain the tub and carefully squeeze out the excess water. Refill the tub with clean water and knead the bag again to rinse it thoroughly. Repeat this process until all the cleaner is removed.
When you've removed as much water as possible, gather up the bag and lift it from below, being careful not to pick it up by the fabric or from above, as this can damage the seams. Carry the bag to a safe place to dry. If you are using a dryer, use a full-size one and tumble dry on low heat, checking the bag frequently to avoid overheating. When the bag is nearly dry, add in a few clean tennis balls to help fluff up the down and break up any clumps that may have formed. If you are air-drying the bag, lay it out on a cool, dry surface, preferably in an area with low humidity and no direct sunlight, as extreme heat can damage the bag. Be sure your bag is fully dry before storing it, to avoid the risk of mould or mildew forming.
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Using a commercial washer
If you're using a commercial washer to clean your Kelty down sleeping bag, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, always use a front-loading commercial washer at a laundromat. The larger capacity ensures your bag is rinsed thoroughly and, unlike a top-loading machine with an agitator, it won't damage your bag by entanglement.
When washing your bag, use a gentle, non-detergent soap that is made for washing down items. Avoid using too much soap and always follow the instructions on the cleaner. You'll want to wash your bag on a gentle cycle, and it's recommended to run the rinse cycle twice to ensure your bag is fully rinsed and free of cleaner.
Once the cycle is complete, carefully remove the bag from the washer by supporting the entire bag, not just one end, to avoid straining and ripping the seams. Gently squeeze out the excess water, then either tumble dry on low heat or air dry. If tumble drying, check the bag frequently to avoid overheating. If air drying, lay the bag out on a cool, dry surface, avoiding extreme heat and direct sunlight.
Finally, once your bag is nearly dry, toss in a few clean tennis balls to help fluff up the down and break up any clumps that may have formed. Make sure your bag is completely dry before storing it to prevent mould or mildew from forming.
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Drying methods
Drying a Kelty down sleeping bag is a time-consuming process and requires patience. Firstly, it is recommended to air dry the bag. This can be done by laying the bag out on a cool, dry surface, such as a large towel or in the backyard, with partial sun. Avoid placing the bag in extreme heat or direct sunlight for a long time, as UV light can slowly degrade the fabric. If the bag is down, gently massage any clumps apart.
If you are drying the bag indoors, drape it over a chair or clothes horse, ensuring the area is well-ventilated. You can also hang it up, but be sure to avoid hanging it where there is strong wind, as your bag may blow away.
Once the bag is nearly dry, check for clumps and gently rub them to break up the down clumps. At this point, you can add dryer balls or a few clean tennis balls to help fluff up the bag.
Make sure the bag is completely dry before storing it. Lay it out flat for a day or so in a cool, dry place. It is important to note that down takes longer to dry than synthetic sleeping bags.
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Storage
Storing your Kelty down sleeping bag correctly is critical to its lifespan and performance. Here are some detailed steps to ensure your bag is stored correctly:
Unzip and Air Out
When you get home from your trip, fully unzip the sleeping bag and hang it in a well-ventilated area to air it out. This step ensures that any moisture trapped inside the bag can escape, preventing the formation of mildew or mould. If you don't have an outdoor space, hang the bag indoors in a dry, temperature-controlled area. You can also set up a fan or dehumidifier to speed up the drying process.
Avoid Compression Sacks
Avoid storing your sleeping bag in its stuff sack or compression sack for extended periods. Compression can damage the fill and cause the bag to lose its loft, or fluffiness, over time. Instead, opt for a large cotton or mesh storage sack, which allows for better air circulation and maintains the bag's shape. Most sleeping bags are sold with a storage sack, but you can also use a large pillowcase or sew your own cotton bag if needed.
Choose a Cool, Dry Location
Once your bag is completely dry, store it in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight. Basements, garages, and attics tend to be damp and are not ideal for storage. If possible, avoid storing the bag in a closet, as it can be challenging to find enough room to prevent compression. Instead, consider storing it under your bed, fully unrolled and uncompressed.
Maintain Zippers and Loft
Before storing your bag, ensure the zippers are clean and well-lubricated. This will make it easier to open and close the bag when you need it. Additionally, periodically remove your sleeping bag from storage and fluff it up. This simple action helps maintain the bag's insulation loft, which is critical to keeping you warm on your adventures.
Wash Only When Necessary
Washing a sleeping bag is a time-consuming task, and it is recommended to do so only when necessary. Small stains and spillages can usually be spot-cleaned with a damp soapy cloth. If a full wash is required, use a gentle, non-detergent soap specifically designed for down products, and always air or tumble dry on low heat. Ensure the bag is completely dry before storing to prevent mould or mildew.
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