Gina Johnson
Sleeping bags are often exposed to sweat, dirt, and body oils, which can cause them to develop a foul odour and lose their insulating power over time. To prevent this, it is recommended to wash your sleeping bag at least once a year, or more frequently if used often. Proper care of a sleeping bag involves using a gentle cleaner and optional deodorizer, followed by correct drying and storage methods. This will not only keep your sleeping bag smelling nice but also maintain its loft and performance, ensuring you stay warm and comfortable during your adventures.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How often to deodorize a sleeping bag | At least once a year |
| How to prevent sleeping bags from getting dirty | Use a bag liner, sleep in clean clothes, and air out the bag to dry whenever it gets damp |
| How to wash a sleeping bag | Check the sleeping bag’s care instructions, close all zippers, turn the bag inside-out, select a delicate/gentle cycle with cold or warm water, and use a gentle cleaner |
| How to deodorize a sleeping bag | Use Revivex Odor Eliminator or Febreeze Antimicrobial fabric freshener |
| How to dry a sleeping bag | Use a large machine dryer that allows the bag to tumble freely, add wool dryer balls or tennis balls to speed up drying time, and dry on low-medium heat |
| How to store a sleeping bag | Store in a dry place where it can spread out, never store a sleeping bag compressed, hang it up on a hook in a dry closet, or store it in a large cotton or mesh sack |
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What You'll Learn
Use an odour eliminator
If your sleeping bag is emitting a foul odour, you can use an odour eliminator to remove the stench. There are a few options available for odour eliminators, such as the Revivex Odor Eliminator, or the Bio One Odour Remover.
The Revivex Odor Eliminator is a gentle formula with water-activated microbes that consume odour-causing bacteria from mould, mildew, urine, and sweat. To use this product, fill a tub with enough cool water to submerge the sleeping bag. Add 2 fl oz of Revivex Odor Eliminator to 20 gallons of water, then stir to mix. Next, unzip the sleeping bag and submerge it in the solution, ensuring that the inside and outside are completely saturated. Allow the sleeping bag to soak for 5 minutes, then remove it from the water without rinsing. Let the bag sit for a couple of hours, then follow the drying instructions. It is recommended that you use the solution within 72 hours of adding water for the best results.
The Bio One Odour Remover is another option, which is a 100% natural enzyme cleaner that kills 99.9% of bacteria. It is chemical-free and contains only natural ingredients. This product can be used to remove odours not just from sleeping bags, but also from other items such as shoes.
If you are using a washing machine to clean your sleeping bag, you can add 2 fl oz of Revivex Odor Eliminator to the fabric softener dispenser. Alternatively, you can follow the deodorizing instructions provided by the manufacturer.
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Wash with gentle detergent
To deodorize a sleeping bag, it is recommended to wash it at least once a year to maintain its loft and performance. When washing your sleeping bag, it is important to use a gentle detergent to avoid damaging the fabric and compromising its insulating power. Here are some detailed steps to follow when washing your sleeping bag with a gentle detergent:
Check the Care Instructions:
Always refer to the sleeping bag's care instructions provided by the manufacturer. These instructions can usually be found on a label or on the manufacturer's website. Follow any specific guidelines or recommendations for washing and drying the sleeping bag.
Prepare the Sleeping Bag:
Before washing, close all zippers and turn the bag inside out. This will help protect the zippers and ensure that the inside of the bag, which is more prone to dirt and body oils, gets thoroughly cleaned.
Choose the Right Detergent:
Select a gentle, non-detergent soap or cleaner specifically designed for washing sleeping bags. Avoid using standard laundry detergents, as they can cause clumping, reduce loft, or leave a film on the fabric. Look for products like Nikwax Down Wash Direct, Nikwax Tech-Wash, or Grangers Down Performance Wash.
Wash with Gentle Settings:
Use a front-loading washing machine or a top-loading machine without an agitator. Set the washer to a delicate or gentle cycle with cold or warm water. Avoid using hot water as it can damage the fabric. Add the recommended amount of detergent or cleaner to the machine, following the instructions on the product label. For synthetic-filled bags, you can use a product like Pro Cleaner, while for down-filled bags, opt for a specialized cleaner like Down Cleaner.
Rinse and Repeat:
Rinse the sleeping bag at least twice to ensure that all traces of the detergent are removed. If the bag still feels soapy or spongy, consider running an additional rinse cycle. It is important to remove all soap residue, especially from down bags, as it can affect the loft and performance of the sleeping bag.
Handle with Care:
When removing the sleeping bag from the washer, support the entire bag, not just one end, to avoid straining and ripping the seams. Gently squeeze out excess water before proceeding to the drying step. Be very gentle during this process, as the bag will be heavy and saturated with water.
By following these steps and using a gentle detergent, you can effectively deodorize your sleeping bag while maintaining its condition and performance. Remember to always refer to the manufacturer's instructions and take the necessary precautions to care for your sleeping bag properly.
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Air out regularly
It is important to air out your sleeping bag regularly, especially if it has gotten damp or wet. Airing out your sleeping bag helps to prevent the buildup of moisture, which can lead to mould and mildew. It also helps to remove any odours that may have accumulated over time.
When airing out your sleeping bag, find a dry place with good ventilation and avoid direct sunlight as this can cause the fabric to degrade over time. Turn the bag inside out to allow the inner lining to air out and speed up the drying process. If possible, hang the bag up to ensure even air circulation and speed up the drying process.
If your sleeping bag has gotten wet, it is important to air it out thoroughly before storing it away. In this case, you may need to air it out for several hours or even a full day to ensure that it is completely dry. You can also lay the bag flat on a clean surface in an area with low humidity if hanging it up is not an option.
Airing out your sleeping bag regularly will help to prevent the growth of bacteria and mould, which can cause unpleasant odours and potentially damage the fabric. It is also a good opportunity to inspect the bag for any dirt, stains, or damage that may require cleaning or repairs.
Additionally, consider airing out your sleeping bag after each use, especially if it has been stored in a stuff sack during transportation. This helps to maintain the loft and insulation of the bag, ensuring it stays warm and comfortable for your next use.
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Use a sleeping bag liner
Sleeping bag liners are a great way to keep your sleeping bag clean and fresh. They act as a barrier between you and the bag, preventing dirt, body oils, and sweat from building up on the bag's fabric and insulation. Liners are available in various materials, including cotton, silk, wool, or polyester, and they are lightweight and easy to pack. They can also add 5 to 15 degrees Fahrenheit to your bag's temperature rating, making them a great option for extra warmth in colder conditions.
When using a sleeping bag liner, choose a liner that fits the shape of your sleeping bag. There are two main types of liners: mummy-shaped and rectangular. Mummy-shaped liners are designed to slip inside your sleeping bag, while rectangular liners can be used on their own or inside a rectangular sleeping bag. Liners are easy to care for and can be washed regularly, which is much simpler than washing the entire sleeping bag.
To use a liner effectively, follow these steps:
- Insert the liner into your sleeping bag: If you have a mummy-shaped bag, choose a mummy-shaped liner and slip it inside. For a rectangular bag, use a rectangular liner.
- Keep the liner clean: Sleep in clean clothes to avoid transferring dirt and body oils onto the liner.
- Wash the liner regularly: At the end of each trip, wash the liner according to its care instructions. Liners are typically easier to wash than sleeping bags and require less time to dry.
- Protect your liner: When not in use, store the liner in a clean and dry place to prevent dirt or moisture buildup.
Using a sleeping bag liner is a simple and effective way to keep your sleeping bag fresh and clean. It helps to prolong the life of your sleeping bag by reducing the need for frequent washing and protecting it from dirt and oils. By following the steps outlined above, you can maintain a comfortable and hygienic sleeping environment during your outdoor adventures.
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Store in a dry place
Storing your sleeping bag in a dry place is critical to maintaining its quality. When storing your sleeping bag, ensure it is thoroughly dry. If your bag is damp, air it out for several hours in a cool, dry place. Avoid hanging it in direct sunlight, as UV rays can damage the exterior coating and materials. If you're airing it inside, avoid hot, humid areas, such as a hot water cupboard. Instead, hang it in a dry room and use a fan to keep the air moving.
Once your bag is completely dry, you can store it in a breathable cotton or mesh sack. These materials allow for air circulation, which is essential for maintaining the bag's insulating properties. If you don't have a storage sack, a king-size pillowcase can work, but it may be a bit small. You can also hang your sleeping bag in a closet or from a curtain rod. If you're hanging it in a closet, use a sleeping bag hanger, and ensure it is fully unrolled.
Avoid storing your sleeping bag in a stuff sack for extended periods, as this can cause it to lose its fluffiness or loft. Loft is essential for keeping you warm, as it creates small air spaces within the insulation that trap body heat. Instead, opt for a large storage sack that will keep your sleeping bag contained without compressing the fill.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to clean your sleeping bag at least once a year. However, if you are using it more frequently, you may need to wash it more often.
To deodorize your sleeping bag, you can use Revivex Odor Eliminator. Fill a tub with enough cool water to submerge the sleeping bag, add 2 fl oz of Odor Eliminator to 20 gallons of water, stir, and then soak the sleeping bag for 5 minutes.
To keep your sleeping bag clean, you can use a sleeping bag liner, sleep in clean clothes, and air out your bag regularly to prevent moisture buildup.
The best way to dry a sleeping bag is to use a commercial dryer on low heat. If you do not have access to a commercial dryer, you can air dry your bag by laying it flat in an area with low humidity and no direct sunlight, or hang it up to dry.
To wash your sleeping bag, check the care instructions, close all zippers, turn the bag inside out, and select a gentle cycle with cold or warm water. Use a gentle cleaner and add 2 fl oz of Pro Cleaner for synthetic-filled bags or Down Cleaner for down-filled bags.
