Gina Johnson
Sleeping bags should be washed at least once a year, but this depends on how often you use them. If you're a camping enthusiast, you might need to wash your sleeping bag more frequently. A clean sleeping bag is hygienic and comfortable, and it will also last longer. To clean a fiberfill sleeping bag, you can hand wash it in a bathtub or use a commercial-size washer and dryer at a laundromat. If you're handwashing, fill the tub with lukewarm water and add laundry detergent. Completely submerge the sleeping bag and let it soak for 15 minutes. Then, gently knead the fabric to remove dirt. Drain the tub and refill it with clean water to rinse out the detergent. Repeat this process until there are no more suds. Finally, gently squeeze out the excess water and proceed to the drying step.
How to Clean a Fiberfill Sleeping Bag
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How often to wash | Once a year, or after every 10 uses, at a minimum |
| When to wash | Before storing for an extended period of time |
| How to wash | Machine wash or hand wash |
| Machine wash instructions | Use a front-loading commercial washer at a laundromat, or a front-loading washer at home. Wash one bag at a time with a couple of large towels to balance the load. Use a gentle cycle with cold or lukewarm water and a small amount of gentle, non-bio detergent. Avoid bleach, fabric softener, and harsh cleaners. |
| Hand wash instructions | Wash in a clean bathtub with lukewarm water and a small amount of detergent or sleeping bag soap. Turn the bag inside out and knead gently to force water and soap through the fabric. Drain the tub, refill with clean water, and knead the bag again to rinse. Repeat until no more suds appear. |
| Drying instructions | Dry in a dryer on low heat with two to three tennis balls or dryer balls to aerate the bag and prevent clumping. Alternatively, air dry by laying flat or hanging up in a dry place with good ventilation. |
| Storage instructions | Store loosely in a large cotton or mesh sack. Do not store compressed in its stuff sack. |
| Preventative measures | Use a sleeping bag liner, sleep in clean clothes, and air out the bag after use. |
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What You'll Learn
Hand-washing vs machine-washing
Hand-washing a sleeping bag can be very labor-intensive. It involves filling a bathtub with lukewarm water and using a detergent specifically formulated for down, such as Nikwax Down Wash Direct, or a technical cleaner like Nikwax Tech-Wash for synthetic bags. The bag should be completely unzipped to prevent the slider from snagging or breaking. After washing, the bag should be rinsed at least twice to ensure all the detergent is removed, and then gently squeezed to remove excess water.
Machine-washing a sleeping bag is more convenient and less labour-intensive than hand-washing. It is recommended to use a front-loading washer without an agitator, as a top-loading washer with an agitator column may damage the bag. The bag should be washed on a gentle cycle in warm or cold water, with a small amount of gentle, non-bio detergent. As with hand-washing, the bag should be rinsed at least twice to ensure all detergent is removed.
After washing, sleeping bags should be dried thoroughly. Machine-washing may be advantageous as dryers typically require the bag to be spun inside a laundry sack first, which is easier to do when the bag has been machine-washed. However, it is important to note that dryers can be too small for sleeping bags, in which case hand-washing may be preferable as the bag can be laid flat or hung up to dry.
Whether hand-washing or machine-washing, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and take care not to damage the bag.
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Choosing the right detergent
When it comes to choosing the right detergent for your fiberfill sleeping bag, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, it is important to use a detergent that is specifically designed for sleeping bags. Standard laundry detergents can cause clumping, reduce loft, or leave a film that affects the performance of the sleeping bag. Therefore, opt for a technical cleaner designed for synthetic bags, such as Nikwax's Tech-Wash or a similar product.
Secondly, if you plan to wash your sleeping bag in a washing machine, it is crucial to consider the type of machine you have. If you have a high-efficiency washer, you should use a high-efficiency (HE) detergent, as traditional detergents can cause excess suds in these machines. On the other hand, if you have a front-loading or top-loading machine without an agitator, you can use a gentle, non-detergent soap designed for washing synthetic items.
Thirdly, if you have sensitive skin, it is recommended to choose an unscented or hypoallergenic detergent. Fragrances in laundry detergents are common skin allergens, so opting for a fragrance-free option can help prevent skin irritation.
Additionally, consider the temperature of the water you will be using to wash your sleeping bag. While warm water is generally recommended for cleaning sleeping bags, some manufacturers suggest using cold water for the gentlest cleaning option. Check the instructions on the detergent bottle and consult your sleeping bag manufacturer for specific recommendations.
Lastly, it is important to use the correct amount of detergent. Overusing detergent can lead to excess suds and residue on your sleeping bag. Always follow the instructions on the detergent bottle and use the minimum amount necessary for effective cleaning.
By considering these factors and choosing the right detergent, you can effectively and safely clean your fiberfill sleeping bag, ensuring it remains in good condition for your future adventures.
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Drying techniques
Drying a fiberfill sleeping bag requires patience and caution. The drying method you choose will depend on the resources available to you and your personal preferences. Here are some detailed instructions for drying your sleeping bag effectively:
Commercial Dryer
If you have access to a laundromat, opt for a commercial-size dryer. These dryers have larger capacities, allowing your sleeping bag to tumble freely and dry evenly. Set the dryer to low heat to avoid damaging the delicate fabric of your sleeping bag. It is recommended to use the lowest heat setting or a 'delicates' setting if available. Run the dryer for at least an hour, and consider running multiple cycles to ensure thorough drying.
Home Dryer
If you don't have access to a commercial dryer, you can use your home dryer. Similar to the commercial dryer instructions, set your home dryer to low heat and run it for an extended period. Be cautious with the heat setting, as high heat can melt the nylon fabric of your sleeping bag. Place your sleeping bag inside a large laundry sack before putting it in the dryer to provide extra protection.
Air Drying
Air drying is a gentle and effective method for drying your fiberfill sleeping bag. Find a clean, flat surface in an area with low humidity and no direct sunlight. Lay the sleeping bag flat and ensure it is fully unfolded. You can also hang the sleeping bag, but be careful to distribute the weight evenly to avoid putting stress on the fabric. Air drying may take several hours, and you may need to reposition the bag periodically to ensure even drying. Always ensure your sleeping bag is completely dry before storing it to prevent the growth of mold or mildew.
Drying Balls
To speed up the drying process and improve the fluffiness of your sleeping bag, consider using drying balls. Wool or dryer balls can be added to the dryer to help break up clumps in the filling and aerate the bag. Tennis balls can also be used, but specialty dryer balls designed for this purpose, such as the Grangers Down Wash kit balls, may offer better results.
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How to prevent mould
To prevent mould from growing on your sleeping bag, it is important to keep it clean and dry. Here are some tips to prevent mould:
Keep your sleeping bag clean:
- Use a sleeping bag liner: A liner acts as a barrier between your skin and the bag, keeping it clean. Liners can be made of cotton, silk, wool or polyester and are lightweight and washable.
- Sleep in clean clothes: Body oils, sweat and dirt can accumulate on your bag over time, reducing its insulating power. Changing into clean clothes before you sleep will help keep your bag clean.
- Air out your bag: Whenever your bag gets damp, be sure to air it out and dry it.
- Spot clean: Instead of washing your entire bag, spot clean stains and dirty areas with a paste of non-detergent soap and water, focusing on areas like the hood and collar where oils tend to accumulate.
Keep your sleeping bag dry:
- Do not store your bag wet or damp: A wet or damp sleeping bag is a breeding ground for mould. Always ensure your bag is completely dry before storing it.
- Air out your bag after use: When you return home from a camping trip, unzip the bag and air it out to ensure it is completely dry before storing.
- Store in a dry area: Store your bag in a dark, dry area to prevent moisture and mildew.
- Do not store compressed: Store your bag loosely in a large cotton or mesh sack, a pillowcase, or a bag you sew yourself. Do not store your bag compressed in its stuff sack as this can damage the fill and trap moisture.
By following these tips, you can help prevent mould and mildew from growing on your sleeping bag, keeping it in good condition for longer.
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Using sleeping bag liners
Sleeping bag liners are an effective way to keep your sleeping bag clean and extend its life. Liners are usually made from lightweight cotton, silk, wool or polyester. They act as a barrier between your skin and the bag, preventing dirt buildup from body oils, sweat, and grime. Liners are also useful if you plan to sleep outdoors under the stars, as they can protect your bag from the ground, providing a layer between the bag and any sharp sticks or conifer pitch.
Using a liner means you will only need to wash your sleeping bag once a year, or after heavy use. At the end of each trip, simply wash the liner and you're good to go again. Liners can also add 5 to 15 degrees Fahrenheit to your bag's temperature rating, providing extra warmth.
If you are lending your sleeping bag to someone, it's a good idea to ask them to use a liner. This will ensure the bag stays cleaner and lasts longer. Liners are also useful if you plan to sit by a campfire with your bag wrapped around you, as they can protect your bag from sparks.
Spot cleaning is another way to keep your sleeping bag clean and reduce the need for full washes. To spot clean, make a paste of non-detergent soap and water and use a toothbrush to gently clean the shell, focusing on the hood and collar where hair and skin oils tend to accumulate. You can also use a mild soap and a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently clean the liner fabric. Always hold the liner fabric away from the insulation so that you don't get the inner fill wet.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to clean your sleeping bag at least once a year. If you use it more frequently, you may need to wash it more often.
You can either hand wash your sleeping bag in a bathtub or use a commercial-size washer and dryer at a laundromat. If you decide to hand wash your sleeping bag, fill the tub with lukewarm water and add laundry detergent. Soak the sleeping bag for 15-20 minutes and then gently knead the fabric. Drain the tub and rinse the sleeping bag until all the soap is removed. Squeeze out the excess water and then proceed to the drying step.
You can either air-dry your sleeping bag or use a dryer. If you decide to air-dry it, lay the sleeping bag flat on a clean surface in an area with low humidity and no direct sunlight, or hang it up to dry. If you decide to use a dryer, set it to a low heat setting and add a couple of tennis balls to aerate the bag and prevent clump formation.
