Evie Summers
Sleeping bags are an essential part of camping gear, and knowing how to fold and store them correctly is key to prolonging their lifespan. Folding a sleeping bag is not as simple as it seems, and it is important to know the dos and don'ts to ensure your gear is in good condition for your next adventure. This is especially important for Decathlon's wadding-filled sleeping bags, which require careful maintenance.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Storage | Stored in a compact compression bag |
| Filling | Wadding-filled |
| Folding | Avoid carefully folding it |
| Cleaning | Place in the washing machine with 2 or 3 tennis balls at 86° F, then air dry |
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What You'll Learn
Stuff, don't fold, to avoid squashing wadding fibres
When storing a Decathlon sleeping bag, it is best to avoid folding it. This is because, over time, folding your sleeping bag will result in the wadding fibres being squashed in the same place, which will cause the bag to lose its insulating power.
Instead, it is recommended to stuff your sleeping bag into its bag. This way, the wadding fibres will not always be crushed in the same place and your sleeping bag will be kept in good condition for longer. If you are using a compression bag, it is best to use one that is bigger than the stuff sack to preserve the fill power of your sleeping bag.
If you are set on folding your sleeping bag, you can do so by first folding it in half lengthwise, then folding one side over so that it lines up with the zipper. Then, start rolling it up from the bottom, pushing out any air as you go. However, this method is not recommended for long-term storage as it can damage the insulation of your sleeping bag.
If you have a wind or water-resistant bag, turn it inside out before rolling it up. This will make it easier for the air to escape when you are packing it.
It is also important to note that sleeping bags should be stored uncompressed. Keeping a sleeping bag compressed in its storage bag can damage the filling. If you do not have a storage bag, you can hang your sleeping bag on a hanger to save space.
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Use a compact compression bag
Compressing your Decathlon sleeping bag using a compact compression bag is a great way to save space when backpacking or travelling. It is also useful for storing your sleeping bag at home. Compression bags are particularly useful for sleeping bags as they can take up quite a bit of space.
To compress your sleeping bag using a compact compression bag, start by folding the bag in half lengthwise. Do not roll the sleeping bag, as rolling adds bulk. Next, flatten the sleeping bag by sweeping your arms across it to remove excess air. Then, start stuffing the sleeping bag into the compression bag from the foot end to prevent trapping air in the bag. As you stuff the bag, turn the sack slightly after each push to fill it evenly.
Once the entire sleeping bag is in the compression bag, pull the drawstring to keep it closed. Then, tighten the side straps one by one, working your way around the compression bag to compress the sleeping bag further. If your compression bag has straps along the sides and ends, tighten them to compress your sleeping bag even more.
Using a compact compression bag is a great way to compress your Decathlon sleeping bag and save space.
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Machine wash polyester wadding
Polyester is a synthetic fabric that generally resists wrinkles, fading, and shrinking when taken care of properly. Polyester wadding can be machine washed, but it is sometimes blended with other fabrics that require specific care instructions, so it is important to check the care label first. If you are washing a sleeping bag with polyester wadding, turn it inside out before placing it in the washer.
Choose a gentle wash cycle, as polyester can snag and pill easily. Avoid heavy-duty cycles and opt for the "gentle" or "delicate" cycle options on your washing machine to prevent any damage to your sleeping bag. Set the water temperature to cool or warm. Most polyester items can be washed in warm or cool water, but it is important to avoid using hot water as it can break down the fibres and cause damage over time.
Before starting the cycle, pre-treat any stains with a stain remover to target and lift stubborn stains. Then, add your regular detergent and fabric softener and start the cycle. Finally, dry your sleeping bag on low heat in a dryer or allow it to air dry. If you choose to air dry, lay the sleeping bag on a flat surface to finish drying.
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Dry clean down filling
When it comes to cleaning a down-filled sleeping bag, it's important to exercise caution. The golden rule is to wash the sleeping bag as little as possible, and when you do, it's best to have it professionally cleaned at a dry cleaner. This is because the cleaning process can be quite harsh on the delicate down filling and the bag itself.
If you choose to wash and dry your bag yourself, it's important to be very gentle. Use a non-detergent soap made for washing down items, and always wash on a gentle, delicate cycle with cold or warm water, never hot. Never use fabric softener, bleach, or alternative bleach products, as these can damage the natural materials.
After washing, the drying process is crucial. Down sleeping bags take a long time to dry, several hours at least, and you must ensure the bag is completely dry, especially at the seams, before storing it. You can use a tumble dryer on low heat, but be sure to add a couple of clean tennis balls to the drum with the bag. These will help break up clumps of down and speed up the drying process.
If you prefer to air dry your sleeping bag, lay it flat on a clean surface in an area with low humidity and no direct sunlight, or hang it up. Be careful not to put too much stress on the fabric when hanging. Leave it to air overnight to ensure it is completely dry.
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Ensure it's completely dry
Ensuring your sleeping bag is completely dry is essential to prevent mould or mildew. If you're using a dryer, set it to low heat or 'delicates' and run a complete cycle. If you're drying a down bag, put a couple of clean tennis balls into the drum with the sleeping bag to help break up clumps of down. If you don't have tennis balls, you can use dryer balls, which work better than tennis balls to loft up the down.
If you choose not to use a dryer, lay your bag flat on a clean surface outdoors, such as grass or a beach towel, in the sun or partial shade. Make sure the area has low humidity and no direct sunlight. You may need to manually break up clumps of insulation as your bag dries.
If you're hanging your sleeping bag to dry, be careful to distribute the weight so you don't put too much stress on the nylon fabric.
To be sure your bag is thoroughly dry before placing it in its storage bag, lay it out or hang it up overnight.
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Frequently asked questions
Decathlon recommends stuffing your sleeping bag into its bag, rather than folding it carefully. This way, the wadding fibres aren't always squashed in the same place, keeping it in good condition for longer.
The cleaning process depends on the filling of your sleeping bag. If it's polyester wadding, you can put it in the washing machine at 86° F with 2 or 3 tennis balls to avoid damage. If it's down, it's best to get it professionally cleaned at a dry cleaner.
After washing, air-dry your sleeping bag and make sure it's completely dry, especially at the seams.
