Herbie Murray
Army sleeping bags are designed to be durable and tough, but they still need to be cleaned and maintained. This is especially true if you use your bag regularly, in which case it should be washed every one to two years. If you don't clean your sleeping bag, body oils, sweat, and dirt can reduce its insulating power. To clean your bag, you can use a washing machine or wash it by hand. If you use a washing machine, make sure it's front-loading and set it to a warm, gentle cycle. If you wash your bag by hand, use soap and warm or hot water. After washing, dry your bag in the sun or on a drying rack, making sure it's completely dry before storing it.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cleaning frequency | Every 1-2 years |
| Clothes while sleeping | Clean |
| Sleeping bag state before storage | Clean and dry |
| Storage method | Loose in a large cotton or mesh sack, pillowcase, or a sewn cotton bag |
| Drying method | Air drying on a flat surface or hanging in multiple spots |
| Washing method | Machine wash or hand wash with soap and warm/hot water |
| Washing machine type | Front-loading |
| Additional items in the washing machine | Tennis balls |
| Detergent | Technical cleaner like Nikwax for synthetic bags, detergent formulated for down for down bags, or mild non-detergent soap without bleach |
| Fabric softener | Never use |
| Washing cycle | Warm and gentle |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Use a washing machine
If your old army sleeping bag is dirty and needs to be washed, you can use a washing machine. Firstly, check your sleeping bag for any tears or weak stitching, especially if it's an old bag.
Next, unzip the bag completely to prevent the slider from snagging or breaking. If your bag has Velcro straps, close them to prevent lint from getting stuck and fabric from snagging. If your sleeping bag is heavily soiled, you may want to consider spot cleaning the dirtiest areas before washing the entire bag.
When you're ready to wash, use a front-loading washer or a top-loading machine without an agitator. If you're using a front-loading washer, choose a commercial washer at a laundromat as the larger capacity will ensure your bag is thoroughly rinsed. If you're using a home front-loader, bear in mind that it may be too small for the bag to tumble and clean properly. If you're using a top-loading machine, ensure it doesn't have an agitator column, as your bag could get damaged by becoming entangled in it.
Once your machine is set up, add a few tennis balls to the washing machine. These will bounce around and prevent the insulation from clumping together. Then, place your sleeping bag in the machine. Don't add anything else to the load. Use the right laundry detergent for your bag. For synthetic bags, use a technical cleaner like Nikwax Tech-Wash. For down bags, use a detergent specifically formulated for down, like Nikwax Down Wash Direct. If you don't have these options, a mild, non-detergent soap without bleach will do. Never use fabric softener or fabric conditioner as this will damage the sleeping bag fibres.
Now, you can start the wash. Wash on a warm, gentle cycle such as "gentle delicate" or "wool wash". Use warm or cold water and the correct amount of soap for your bag type. Avoid using too much soap as it will be harder to rinse out. If your bag is nylon, be sure to rinse at least twice to thoroughly remove the cleaning agent. If it's pooling water or feels spongy, put it through another rinse cycle.
When the cycle is finished, gather the bag into a ball and carry it to the dryer. Support the entire bag, not just one end, when removing it from the washer to avoid straining and ripping the seams. Gently squeeze out any excess water. Do not wring the bag out as this can damage the fibres.
Finally, dry the bag in the dryer on low heat. Machine heat varies, so check often. If it's too hot, the fabric or synthetic fill can melt. If you're drying a down bag, add two or three clean tennis balls or a lightweight pair of clean sneakers to the dryer.
Blue Light Filter Effectiveness: Do They Improve Sleep?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Air drying
It is crucial to ensure that the sleeping bag is completely dry before storing it away. Moisture can lead to the growth of mildew or mould, which can damage the bag. To prevent this, it is advisable to hang the bag instead of using a compression sack, as compression can also affect the insulation. Sleeping bags need to breathe, so they should not be stored in impermeable containers or plastic bags.
When air-drying an old army sleeping bag, it is recommended to place it in an area with good airflow. If possible, drying it in the sun is ideal, as the sunlight and fresh air can help eliminate any remaining moisture and odours. The sun's ultraviolet rays can also have a sanitizing effect, further contributing to the cleaning process.
While air drying, you can also take the opportunity to fluff the sleeping bag. This can be done by gently shaking the bag, ensuring that the insulation is evenly distributed. This step helps maintain the bag's loft and insulating properties. It is important to note that the bag should not be vigorously shaken, as this could damage the insulation or the bag's construction.
Overall, air drying is a crucial step in maintaining and prolonging the lifespan of an old army sleeping bag. By following these steps, you can ensure that your sleeping bag is thoroughly dried, maintained, and stored correctly, keeping it in good condition for your next outdoor adventure.
Bugs' Sleep Patterns: Daytime Dozing or Nighttime Napping?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Use the right detergent
When it comes to cleaning old army sleeping bags, using the right detergent is crucial to ensure effective cleaning without damaging the bag. Here are some detailed instructions for selecting the appropriate detergent for your sleeping bag:
Firstly, identify the type of sleeping bag you own. Sleeping bags can be made of synthetic materials, down, or even a combination of both. Understanding the composition of your sleeping bag will help you choose the right detergent.
If you own a synthetic sleeping bag, opt for a technical cleaner designed specifically for synthetic materials. One recommended option is Nikwax, a specialised cleaner for synthetic fabrics. These technical cleaners are formulated to effectively clean synthetic fibres without causing any damage.
On the other hand, if your sleeping bag is made of down, choose a detergent that is specifically formulated for down materials. These detergents are designed to clean down feathers gently and effectively. Using a detergent that is not suitable for down might damage the feathers and affect the insulating properties of your sleeping bag.
In cases where you don't have access to specialised detergents, you can opt for a mild, non-detergent soap. Choose a soap that does not contain any bleach, as bleach can be too harsh on the fabric and potentially damage the sleeping bag's fibres. A gentle, bleach-free soap will effectively clean the sleeping bag without causing any harm.
It is important to note that you should never use fabric softener when washing a sleeping bag. Fabric softeners can damage the sleeping bag's fibres and reduce their effectiveness. Additionally, avoid dry cleaning your sleeping bag, as the chemicals used in dry cleaning can harm the insulation, causing it to lose its loft and ability to retain heat.
By following these instructions and choosing the right detergent for your old army sleeping bag, you can ensure that it is cleaned thoroughly and maintained in good condition for your next outdoor adventure.
Sleep Deprivation: Hallucinations and the Mind's Eye
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Clean before storage
It is important to clean your sleeping bag before storing it for long periods. Firstly, check the care instructions on the sleeping bag's tag. Military sleeping bags are typically made from synthetic materials such as polyester, but some are also made from down or waterproof fabrics. The care instructions may vary depending on the fabric.
If your sleeping bag is made from synthetic materials, you can wash it in a front-loading washing machine. Do not overload the machine; only wash one sleeping bag at a time. Unzip the bag and secure the zipper halfway up to prevent it from snagging, twisting, or breaking. Place the bag in the machine and add a few clean tennis balls. These will bounce around and prevent the insulation from clumping together. Use a technical cleaner like Nikwax or a mild, non-detergent soap without bleach. Never use fabric softener, as this will damage the sleeping bag fibres. Wash on a warm, gentle cycle such as "gentle delicate" or "wool wash". Once the cycle is complete, put the bag through a rinse cycle to remove any lingering soap. Repeat the rinse cycle until you no longer see any soap suds.
If your sleeping bag is made from down, you can also wash it in a front-loading washing machine, but you may need to use a detergent specifically formulated for down. Alternatively, you can wash a down sleeping bag by hand. Fill a bathtub with cool or warm water and add detergent. Wait until the detergent has completely dissolved, then submerge the sleeping bag. If the bag has a waterproof liner, turn it inside out before submerging. Gently work the soap into the fabric, paying extra attention to heavily soiled areas. Allow the bag to soak for up to one hour, then drain the tub and gently press out any remaining water. Refill the tub with clean water to rinse, then let the bag sit for 15 minutes before draining again. Repeat the rinse process until all the soap is removed.
After washing, gently squeeze out any excess water from the sleeping bag. Then, carefully lift the bag out of the washer or tub and roll it up to remove any remaining water. It is important to ensure that the bag is completely dry before storing it. You can air-dry the bag on a flat surface, such as a drying rack, or hang it up in a well-ventilated area. If hanging, ensure the bag is supported in multiple spots to prevent the insulation from clumping in one area. Do not dry clean your sleeping bag, as the chemicals can harm the insulation and reduce its ability to retain heat.
Once your sleeping bag is completely dry, you can prepare it for storage. Do not store your bag in a compression sack, as this can damage the insulation. Instead, store it loosely in a large cotton or mesh sack, a large pillowcase, or a cotton bag that you've sewn yourself. Allow the bag to breathe by avoiding plastic bags or other impermeable materials. Hanging the bag is also a good option. Check your bag periodically to ensure that the seams, zippers, and drawcords are in good condition and that the insulation is evenly distributed.
The Sweet Relief of a Work-Free Tomorrow
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Use a liner
Sleeping bag liners are a great way to keep your sleeping bag clean. They act as a barrier between your skin and the bag, protecting it from body oils, sweat, and dirt, which can degrade the insulating power of your sleeping bag over time. Liners are usually made from lightweight cotton, silk, wool, or polyester, and they can add 5 to 15 degrees Fahrenheit to your bag's temperature rating, making them ideal for cold environments.
Liners are easy to care for—at the end of each trip, simply wash the liner and you're good to go again. This means you won't have to wash your sleeping bag as frequently, reducing the wear and tear on the bag. Liners are also much easier to wash and dry than sleeping bags, as they are smaller and lighter.
When using a liner, it's still important to follow other sleeping bag care tips. For example, always sleep in clean clothes and avoid using a bag that is too warm for your needs, as this will cause you to sweat more. Additionally, be careful when laying out your sleeping bag, as the ground may have sharp objects that can damage the bag.
If you're lending your sleeping bag to someone, it's a good idea to ask them to use a liner. This will help protect your bag from any oils, dirt, or grime that may be transferred from their skin. Liners are also useful for backpackers and travellers who may be staying in hostels, as they provide a clean and comfortable barrier between the user and the sleeping bag.
Overall, using a liner is a great way to keep your sleeping bag in good condition and reduce the need for frequent washing. By following these tips, you can extend the lifespan of your sleeping bag and maintain its insulating power.
Sleep: A Pillar of Health, Don't Skimp on It!
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to wash your sleeping bag every 1-2 years if you use it regularly. If you use it less frequently, you can wash it less often.
Army sleeping bags can be cleaned in a washing machine, but you should check the bag for any tags with washing instructions. If there are no tags, wash the bag with soap and warm or hot water. You can also add a few tennis balls to the washing machine to prevent the insulation from clumping together. After washing, air dry the bag on a flat surface or hang it in multiple spots to prevent the insulation from clumping.
It is important to ensure that your sleeping bag is completely dry before storing it to prevent mold growth. Store the bag loosely in a large cotton or mesh sack, a large pillowcase, or a cotton bag you sew yourself. Do not store it in a compression sack or plastic bag, as this can damage the insulation and prevent airflow, leading to mold growth and bad odors.
