Colin Snow
Sleeping bags need to be washed at least once a year, or more often if used frequently, to prevent the buildup of body oils and dirt, which can compromise the bag's loft and warmth. However, washing a sleeping bag can be a delicate process as it subjects the bag to wear and tear and can decrease its loft. To restore the loft of a sleeping bag after washing, it is recommended to tumble dry the bag on low or no heat, and to add tennis balls to the dryer to help break up clumps and speed up drying. If you don't have access to a tumble dryer, you can try manually fluffing the bag by shaking it out, spreading it out, and letting it sit for a few days.
How to fluff a sleeping bag after washing
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Drying | Air dry for several days before putting it in the dryer on fluff or very low heat |
| Use of dryer | Use a commercial-size dryer if possible, as they have larger capacities that allow fully lofted sleeping bags to tumble |
| Set the dryer on low heat; high heat can melt delicate nylon fabrics | |
| Tumble dry | |
| Use a dryer with no heat and toss in a couple of tennis balls to break up the clumps | |
| Put the sleeping bag in the dryer with a couple of tennis balls to help break up the clumps | |
| Dry/fluff/dry/fluff repeatedly | |
| Rewash, rinse thoroughly, and dry/fluff/dry/fluff repeatedly | |
| Air dry, then tumble dry for 15 minutes | |
| Avoid dry cleaning | |
| Avoid using a top-loading machine with an agitator | |
| Avoid using fabric softener, bleach or alternative-bleach products | |
| Avoid using regular detergent as it will coat the down with residue, reducing loft | |
| Avoid drying with high spin cycle | |
| Avoid over-compressing wet down | |
| Avoid leaving damp or dirty down compressed for a long period of time |
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What You'll Learn
Use a commercial dryer on a low heat setting
If you want to use a dryer to fluff your sleeping bag, it is recommended to use a commercial-size dryer, as found in laundromats. The larger capacity of these dryers allows fully lofted sleeping bags to tumble. If you don't have access to a laundromat, you can use a home dryer, but be sure to set it to low heat as high heat can melt delicate nylon fabrics.
When using a commercial dryer, set it to a low heat setting. If your sleeping bag is down, you should place it in the dryer on air with no heat. In either case, add a couple of tennis balls to the dryer to help break up any clumps in the filling and speed up the drying process.
If you don't have access to a commercial dryer, you can also air dry your sleeping bag. However, it is important to note that you should never store a washed sleeping bag without first ensuring it is completely dry, as mildew can develop and is very difficult to remove.
If you choose to wash and dry your sleeping bag yourself, the process will take at least two to three hours, with down sleeping bags taking longer than synthetic. When removing the bag from the washer, be sure to support the entire bag, not just one end, to avoid straining and ripping the seams. Gently squeeze out any excess water before drying.
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Dry with tennis balls to break up clumps
If you want to dry your sleeping bag with tennis balls, you can use a commercial tumble dryer or a dryer at a laundromat. Set the dryer to low heat or no heat and toss in a few tennis balls to help break up clumps and speed up the drying process.
If you don't have access to a commercial dryer, you can use a home dryer, but be sure to set it to fluff or very low heat. You can also air dry your sleeping bag first for several days until it's fairly dry, and then finish drying it in the home dryer with the tennis balls.
It's important to note that drying a sleeping bag can take several hours, especially for down sleeping bags. Make sure that your sleeping bag is completely dry before storing it to prevent mildew from forming.
If you don't want to use a dryer, you can also try fluffing your sleeping bag by shaking it out, spreading it out, and letting it sit for a few days.
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Air dry before tumble drying
After washing your sleeping bag, it is important to dry it properly to prevent the growth of mildew. Air drying is a recommended first step before tumble drying. Here are some tips for air drying your sleeping bag:
Firstly, it is crucial to support the entire bag, especially when removing it from the washer. Gently squeeze out the excess water, being careful not to strain or rip the seams. Next, fully unzip the bag and hang it up to air dry. It is essential to support the bag from beneath during this process to prevent the weight of the wet filling from damaging the internal structure and causing uneven distribution. Allow the bag to air dry for several days until it is fairly dry before proceeding to the next step.
Depending on the type of filling, you may need to manually fluff the bag during the air-drying process. Down sleeping bags, in particular, may require manual fluffing to separate the clumps of down and restore loft. You can do this by gently shaking the bag, spreading it out, or even gently "shwacking" it to help break up the clumps.
While air drying is important, it should be noted that tumble drying is typically still necessary for sleeping bags, especially those with down filling. Down sleeping bags can take several hours to dry thoroughly, and tumble drying on low heat helps speed up the process while also restoring fluffiness. However, before tumble drying, ensure that your sleeping bag is completely dry to avoid any issues with mildew.
In summary, air drying your sleeping bag before tumble drying is a crucial step in the process of washing and drying your sleeping bag. By following these steps, you can ensure that your sleeping bag is properly cared for and maintained.
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Avoid top-loading washing machines
To fluff a sleeping bag after washing, you can use a dryer or air-dry it. If you choose to use a dryer, it is recommended to use a commercial-size one, as they have larger capacities that allow sleeping bags to tumble. Set the dryer on low heat, as high heat can melt the delicate nylon fabrics. You can also add two or three clean tennis balls or a lightweight pair of clean sneakers to the dryer to help break up any clumps of down as it spins and restore loft. If you choose to air-dry your sleeping bag, lay it flat on a clean surface outside, such as grass or a beach towel, in the sun or partial shade. You may need to manually break up clumps of insulation as your bag dries.
To ensure your sleeping bag is properly fluffed after washing, it is important to follow the correct washing procedures. Sleeping bags should be washed at least once or twice a year, and only when necessary. When washing your sleeping bag, it is best to avoid using a top-loading washing machine. Top-loading washing machines often have agitators that can be too strong for sleeping bags, causing them to tear or rip. If you have a top-loading washing machine, remove the agitator before washing your sleeping bag to avoid damage. Alternatively, use a front-loading washing machine, as they do not have agitators. If you do not have access to a front-loading washing machine, consider hand washing your sleeping bag or using a commercial washer at a laundromat.
When washing your sleeping bag, use a gentle, non-detergent soap made for washing down- and synthetic-filled items. Wash on a gentle cycle in warm or cold water, using as little soap as possible to avoid over-sudsing. Avoid drying cleaning your sleeping bag, as the solvents used can strip the natural oils from the down that help it retain its loft. Never use fabric softener, bleach, or alternative bleach products.
In addition to proper washing techniques, there are other ways to care for your sleeping bag and maintain its fluffiness. After each use, unzip the bag and air it out to ensure it is completely dry before storing it loosely in a large cotton or mesh storage sack. Do not store your bag compressed in its stuff sack, as this will damage the fill over time. You can also protect your bag from dirt buildup by using a bag liner and sleeping in clean clothes.
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Wash by hand in a bathtub
Washing a sleeping bag by hand in a bathtub can be very labor-intensive, but it is possible. Here is a step-by-step guide:
First, ensure the bathtub is clean. Then, turn the sleeping bag inside out and place it in the tub. Zip up the bag. Next, add warm water—enough to cover the bag—and the recommended amount of the appropriate soap. Avoid using too much soap, as it will be hard to rinse out. Use a soap specifically formulated for down or synthetic bags, such as Nikwax Down Wash Direct for down and Nikwax Tech Wash for synthetic. Never use conventional laundry detergents, as the fillers and brighteners can prevent the bag from lofting properly.
Gently knead and work the soapy water into the bag. You can pretend you are treading grapes, which is both effective and therapeutic! Do not pick up the bag during this process, as the weight of the water can tear the stitching. If the bag is very dirty, you may need to repeat this process. After each cycle, drain the bathtub and carefully roll up the bag to squeeze out the water. Refill the tub with clean water and knead the bag again to force the clean water through it. Repeat this rinsing process at least twice to ensure all the soap is removed.
Once you have finished rinsing, slowly roll the bag into a cylinder, pressing out the water as you go. Do not twist or wring the bag. Transfer the bag outside to a netted hammock or chaise lounge in the sun to dry. You can also lay it flat on a clean surface in an area with low humidity and no direct sunlight, or hang it up to dry, being careful to distribute the weight so as not to put too much stress on the fabric.
To speed up the drying process and re-fluff the bag, you can use a dryer on a low heat setting with two to three tennis balls or thick rolled-up socks. This helps break up clumps and speed up drying. However, be aware that high heat can melt delicate nylon fabrics. If you do not have access to a dryer, you can also try manually fluffing the bag by shaking it or gently hitting it against a surface.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to wash your sleeping bag at least once a year, but if you are using it more frequently, you may want to wash it more often.
You can air dry your sleeping bag, but it is recommended to tumble dry it on low heat. If you don't have access to a dryer, wait for a couple of dry days and hang it out in the sun.
You can try fluffing your sleeping bag by tumble drying it with a few tennis balls on low or no heat. Alternatively, you can try shaking it out, spreading it out, and letting it sit for a few days.
Use a gentle, non-detergent soap that is made for washing down- and synthetic-filled items. Avoid using fabric softener, bleach, or alternative bleach products.
Store your sleeping bag loosely in a large cotton or mesh storage sack. Do not store your bag compressed in its stuff sack as this will eventually damage the fill.
