Herbie Murray
Sea to Summit sleeping bags are made from the highest quality materials, including RDS-certified premium down, bluesign® certified fabrics, and non-PFC finishes. To ensure the longevity of your sleeping bag, it is important to clean and maintain it properly. This includes spot cleaning stains, using a sleeping bag liner, and washing the bag with the appropriate products and methods. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to clean your Sea to Summit sleeping bag, covering everything from stain removal to washing and drying techniques, so you can keep your bag in top condition for your next adventure.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Frequency of cleaning | Sea to Summit sleeping bags should not be washed often. |
| Use of sleeping bag liners | Using a sleeping bag liner will reduce the need for cleaning. |
| Use of washing machines | Top-loader washing machines should be avoided. Front-loader washing machines with a gentle cycle suitable for wool or silk can be used. |
| Use of bathtubs | A bathtub is the safest option for cleaning a sleeping bag. |
| Type of detergent | Specially formulated laundry liquid such as Grangers Down Wash should be used. Conventional laundry detergents should be avoided. |
| Use of fabric softeners | Fabric softeners should be avoided as they can damage the sleeping bag. |
| Drying | The sleeping bag should be dried thoroughly before storage. |
| Storage | Sea to Summit sleeping bags should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from sealed containers. |
| Zippers | The zippers should be cleaned with a toothbrush and sprayed with pure (food-grade) silicone spray or a zipper lubricant. |
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What You'll Learn
Use a front-loading washing machine on a gentle cycle
When it comes to washing a Sea to Summit sleeping bag, it's important to avoid using a top-loading washing machine, especially one with an agitator (internal plastic spiral). This is because it can damage the insulating fibres of the bag. Instead, opt for a front-loading washing machine with a gentle cycle setting suitable for wool or silk. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use a front-loading washing machine to clean your Sea to Summit sleeping bag:
Step 1: Prepare the Sleeping Bag
Before loading the sleeping bag into the machine, ensure that all zippers are closed and any hooks are fastened. Check the pockets and remove any debris or residue, especially around the zipper area, using a toothbrush. If there are any stains or odours from organic material, such as food or body oils, treat them with an odour eliminator like Grangers Odour Eliminator to neutralise the scent.
Step 2: Choose the Right Detergent
Do not use just any laundry detergent. Select a specially formulated laundry liquid designed for down or delicate items, such as Grangers Down Wash. Avoid fabric softeners at all costs as they will ruin the ability of the sleeping bag's fibres to loft.
Step 3: Load the Washing Machine
Front-loading washers are loaded not by weight but by the amount of space the items take up in the drum. Bulk is more important than weight. Loosely load the sleeping bag into the drum, ensuring that there is a mix of large and small items for balance. Avoid washing only one item, as it can cause the washer to become unbalanced.
Step 4: Select the Gentle Cycle
Choose a gentle wash cycle suitable for wool or silk. Front-loading washers use less water, so adjust the water level accordingly. If your machine has automatic water level selection, it will determine the load size and water amount. However, if you have the option to select the water level, choose a lower water setting to take advantage of the energy savings.
Step 5: Use Less Detergent
Since front-loading washers use significantly less water, you should also use much less laundry detergent. Always use a detergent formulated for high-efficiency (HE) machines, as these produce fewer suds. Using regular detergent can cause excessive bubbles or foam, which can ruin your front-loading washer.
By following these steps, you can effectively clean your Sea to Summit sleeping bag while preserving its insulating fibres and maintaining its functionality for many adventures to come. Remember to always air-dry your sleeping bag after washing and store it in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place.
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Hand-wash your sleeping bag
If you are unsure about using a washing machine to clean your Sea to Summit sleeping bag, you can hand-wash it. Hand-washing your sleeping bag is also the safest option if your front-loader washing machine does not have a delicate cycle suitable for washing woollen garments.
Before you begin, check if your sleeping bag has down or synthetic filling. There is a slightly different process for washing a down sleeping bag than there is for washing a synthetic sleeping bag.
If your sleeping bag has down filling, use a down soap, which is very mild and will rinse out without leaving a residue. Do not use conventional laundry detergents or even 'active wash' products because of the harsh detergents, fillers and brighteners they contain. These can strip the oils from the down and prevent it from lofting properly.
If your sleeping bag is synthetic, use a product such as Grangers Down Performance Wash. Avoid laundry detergents, as the brighteners and fillers may stick to the polyester fibres and reduce the loft.
To hand-wash your sleeping bag, fill a bathtub with warm water and add a mild soap such as Wilderness Wash. Submerge the sleeping bag and gently agitate the water with your hands to ensure the soap is thoroughly mixed. Leave the sleeping bag to soak for several minutes, then drain the water and refill the bathtub to rinse the sleeping bag. Repeat this process until all the soap has been rinsed away.
Once your sleeping bag is clean, hang it up in a dry place where it can air out before being returned to its storage sack. Ensure the bag is completely dry before storing it to prevent mould or mildew from forming.
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Use a sleeping bag liner
Sea to Summit sleeping bag liners can be washed in a washing machine using normal detergent. If you have a top-loader, put the liner inside a pillowcase or bag to prevent the impeller or agitator from snagging the drawcord. Wash on a delicate or gentle cycle with cold to warm water and avoid fabric softeners, as these will compromise the wicking ability of the liner. Silk liners, in particular, should only be air-dried as the heat from a dryer may damage them.
Using a liner can reduce the number of times you need to wash your sleeping bag. Liners can be used as a stand-alone sleeping bag in warmer temperatures, especially if you are sleeping indoors. The Reactor, Reactor Extreme, and Reactor Fleece liners are suitable for outdoor use, while the Silk Blend and Comfort Blend liners are better for indoor use.
When sleeping outdoors, it is important to be aware of moving air, as the liner's fabric will allow air to pass through, potentially robbing you of warmth. To prevent heat loss, you may need to cover the liner with something windproof, such as a poncho or an ultralight sleeping bag cover.
If you are using a liner as a stand-alone bag, the minimum air temperature at which you would remain comfortable is around 60°F/15°C. A lightweight bag cover can increase the comfortable temperature rating to 50°F/10°C.
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Avoid fabric softeners
When cleaning a Sea to Summit sleeping bag, it is important to avoid fabric softeners at all costs. While fabric softeners may seem like a good idea to keep your sleeping bag feeling fresh and soft, they can actually be detrimental to the performance and lifespan of your sleeping bag.
Fabric softeners will stick to the delicate down clusters of a down bag or the fibres of a synthetic bag's insulation. This will negatively impact the bag's ability to loft, which is key to keeping you warm. Loft refers to the fluffiness of the sleeping bag, which creates small air spaces within the insulation. These spaces trap body heat, keeping you warm while you sleep. By using fabric softeners, you risk impairing the insulating properties of your sleeping bag, making it less effective in keeping you warm during your outdoor adventures.
Additionally, fabric softeners can contain chemicals that may be too harsh for the delicate materials used in sleeping bags. The chemicals in fabric softeners can strip the natural oils from down fillings, which are essential for maintaining the loft of the bag. This can result in reduced insulation and decreased warmth over time.
Instead of using fabric softeners, opt for specialised cleaning products designed specifically for down or synthetic sleeping bags. These products, such as Nikwax Down Wash or Grangers Down Wash, are formulated to effectively clean your sleeping bag without compromising its performance. They help maintain the loft and natural oils of the filling, ensuring your sleeping bag remains warm and comfortable for many camping trips to come.
By avoiding fabric softeners and choosing specialised cleaning products, you can rest assured that your Sea to Summit sleeping bag will continue to provide the warmth and comfort you need for a good night's rest in the great outdoors.
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Store in a cool, dry place
When storing your Sea to Summit sleeping bag, it is important to remember to store it in a cool, dry place. This is because temperature fluctuations and damp environments can cause mould to form on the sleeping bag over time. The attic, cellar, basement, and garage are all susceptible to dampness and humidity, which can damage your sleeping bag. Therefore, it is best to store your sleeping bag in a dry and well-ventilated area of your home, such as a walk-in wardrobe or closet.
If you must store your sleeping bag in an attic, basement, or garage, there are a few guidelines to follow. In an attic, store the bag close to the attic hatch or eaves, where the temperatures are slightly cooler. Basements and garages can be damp, so it is important to ensure proper ventilation. Additionally, store the bag on a high shelf, as warmer and drier air rises, while cool and damp air falls.
To further prevent mould and mildew growth, it is crucial to ensure your sleeping bag is completely dry before storing it. Hang the bag in a dry room or covered outdoor space for at least 4 to 8 hours. Avoid direct sunlight, as UV rays can weaken the fabric and cause damage. If hanging outdoors, be mindful of the weather. You can also use a fan or dehumidifier to speed up the drying process.
To maintain the loft of the sleeping bag's insulation, it is recommended to hang the bag or place it in a storage sack that does not compress the fill. Sea to Summit sleeping bags come with a fabric storage cube, or you can use a large cotton or mesh sack. Avoid using sealed containers, as they can trap moisture and negatively affect the sleeping bag.
By following these guidelines, you can effectively store your Sea to Summit sleeping bag in a cool, dry place, ensuring its longevity and maintaining its functionality.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to wash your sleeping bag as infrequently as possible. To keep your sleeping bag clean for longer, use a sleeping bag liner.
Sea to Summit sleeping bags come with a fabric storage cube for long-term storage. It is recommended to store your sleeping bag uncompressed in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place.
Do not use conventional laundry detergents or fabric softeners, as these can damage the sleeping bag. Instead, use a product specifically formulated for the type of sleeping bag you have: down sleeping bags require a mild down soap, while synthetic sleeping bags require a performance wash product.
If possible, use a front-loading washing machine with a gentle wool or silk cycle. If your machine does not have this setting, hand-washing is the safest option. Top-loading washing machines should be avoided, as they can damage the sleeping bag.
To remove stains, spot clean them as soon as possible with a damp cloth. To neutralise odours, use a product such as Grangers Odour Eliminator.
