Evie Summers
Sleeping bags can be a great investment, but they require care and maintenance to ensure they stay clean and last longer. While it is not necessary to wash your sleeping bag after every trip, it is recommended to freshen it up and clean it at least once a year. This can be done through various methods, including hand washing, machine washing, or professional cleaning services. In addition to keeping it clean, there are several other ways to maintain your sleeping bag, such as using a liner, avoiding direct sunlight, and being cautious when zipping it up.
How to Freshen a Sleeping Bag
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How often to wash | Once a year, at a minimum; more often if used frequently |
| When to wash | Before storing for an extended period; when there are signs of dirt or loss of fluffiness |
| How to wash | Hand wash in a bathtub; use a commercial-size washer at a laundromat; use a front-loading washer at home; send to a professional service |
| What to use | Gear wash formulated for down, e.g., Nikwax Down Wash Direct; mild, non-liquid detergent; soap flakes; specialist down cleaning product, e.g., Grangers Down Wash |
| Drying | Use a commercial dryer; dry at home on low heat; air dry in an area with low humidity and no direct sunlight; hang to dry |
| Additional tips | Use a sleeping bag liner; air out the bag daily; protect the bag from direct sunlight and the ground |
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What You'll Learn
Wash your sleeping bag annually, or more often if used frequently
To keep your sleeping bag fresh, it's a good idea to wash it at least once a year. If you use your sleeping bag more frequently, you may need to wash it more often. Washing your sleeping bag annually will help to remove any buildup of body oils, sweat, dirt, sunscreen, and grime that can compromise its loft and warmth.
Before washing your sleeping bag, it's important to check the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. Some sleeping bags are hand-wash only, especially those made with natural down filling. If you're hand-washing your sleeping bag, fill a bathtub with warm water and add a non-liquid soap or a detergent specifically designed for down or synthetic sleeping bags. Avoid using bleach or powdered detergents, as these can damage the filling and leave residue. Turn your sleeping bag inside out and zip it closed before placing it in the tub. Ensure that the bag is fully submerged and let it soak for 10-15 minutes. If you're using a washing machine, use a front-loading machine without an agitator to avoid damaging the bag. Set the machine to a delicate cycle and use warm water.
After washing, gently squeeze out the excess water from the sleeping bag. If you have a tumble dryer, you can dry your sleeping bag on a low heat setting. Adding a couple of tennis balls to the dryer can help speed up the drying process and restore the loft. If you don't have access to a dryer, you can air dry your sleeping bag by laying it flat on a clean surface in an area with low humidity and no direct sunlight, or by hanging it up to dry. Ensure that your sleeping bag is completely dry before storing it.
In addition to annual washing, there are some other ways to keep your sleeping bag fresh. Using a sleeping bag liner can act as a barrier between your skin and the bag, reducing the amount of body oil and dirt that accumulates. It's also important to air out your sleeping bag daily and let it dry whenever it gets damp. Following these tips will help keep your sleeping bag fresh and clean for your next adventure.
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Use a front-loading commercial washer at a laundromat
If your sleeping bag is starting to smell or lose its fluffiness, it may be time to give it a wash. One option is to use a front-loading commercial washer at a laundromat.
First, check the pockets of your sleeping bag and remove any items that don't belong in the wash. If your sleeping bag has a liner, it's a good idea to remove it and wash it separately. Consult your sleeping bag maker's instructions (on a label or online) to see if they have any specific recommendations for washing.
Next, find a laundromat near you that has a front-loading commercial washer. These washers are heavy-duty and typically have a larger capacity than home washers, ensuring your sleeping bag will be thoroughly rinsed. Look for a washer with a door on the front of the machine. Avoid smaller double loaders as they may not be able to handle the bulk of a sleeping bag. Aim for a machine with a capacity of at least four loaders.
Once you've selected a suitable washer, add detergent before loading your sleeping bag. Use a detergent that is formulated for a high-efficiency machine, as front-loading washers use less water than standard washers. Check the fill line printed on the dispenser cup and avoid adding more detergent than recommended. If the machine has a detergent dispenser, use it to ensure the detergent is dispensed evenly.
After adding detergent, load your sleeping bag into the washer. Distribute it evenly and loosely inside the washer, ensuring it doesn't fill the washer more than 3/4 full. If the washer has an agitator, don't fill it past the agitator. Close any zippers and fasten any hooks before starting the wash.
Finally, select the appropriate wash settings and start the cycle. If your sleeping bag is made of down, consider adding two to three tennis balls to the washer to help restore its fluffiness.
After the wash cycle, gently squeeze out any excess water and proceed to dry your sleeping bag.
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Air out your sleeping bag daily
To keep your sleeping bag fresh, it is important to air it out daily. This is because, over time, dirt, sweat, and body oils can build up in the bag, compromising its insulating power and fluffiness.
When you are camping, try to air out your sleeping bag daily, preferably in the morning or midday, to dry out any moisture. Turn the bag inside out to ensure that any moisture within is dried out. If you are in a sunny area, be careful not to leave the bag in direct sunlight for too long, as UV light can slowly degrade the fabric. However, if your bag gets really wet, it may be necessary to air it out for several hours.
If you are using your sleeping bag frequently, it is a good idea to air it out and let it dry in the wind and sun after each use. This will help neutralise any odours.
When you get home from your camping trip, be sure to air out your bag as soon as possible. This will ensure that it is completely dry before you store it away.
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Use a sleeping bag liner
Sleeping bag liners are a great way to freshen up your sleeping bag and keep it clean. They are inserted inside your sleeping bag to add extra warmth and prevent dirt, grime, and body oils from reaching your bag. Liners can be made of cotton, silk, wool, or polyester and are lightweight and breathable. They are also soft against the skin and help protect against insect bites.
Using a liner is a more convenient option than washing your sleeping bag, which can be time-consuming and labor-intensive. Liners can be easily removed and washed, improving hygiene and reducing the need to wash the bag itself. This helps extend the life of your sleeping bag. Liners are also useful if you are lending your sleeping bag to someone, as it provides an extra layer of protection.
When choosing a sleeping bag liner, consider the material and shape. Silk liners are lightweight and ideal for most hikes, offering a little extra warmth and a lot of cleanliness. Liners made from synthetic materials, such as CoolMax®, are moisture-wicking and breathable, making them suitable for humid conditions. Mummy-shaped bag liners are designed to fit inside mummy-shaped sleeping bags, providing a closer fit and extra warmth in the winter. Rectangular liners, also known as travel sheets, can be used inside rectangular sleeping bags or on their own in hot climates.
You can also make your own DIY sleeping bag liner by purchasing fabric, thread, scissors, pins, and a sewing machine. Measure the fabric to your height and width, then cut off any excess. Sew up the side panel first and add multiple seams to secure it. Then, sew the footbox with a zigzag seam to handle the force. Your liner should be lightweight and comfortable, providing a soft feel and improved breathability.
Sleeping bag liners are a great way to keep your sleeping bag fresh and clean. They add extra warmth and protection while being lightweight and easy to care for. By using a liner, you can reduce the need for frequent washing of your sleeping bag and extend its lifespan.
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Dry your sleeping bag on low heat
Drying your sleeping bag is a crucial step in the cleaning process. If you don't dry it properly, you risk mildew and mould build-up, which can ruin your sleeping bag. Here are some tips for drying your sleeping bag on low heat:
First, check your sleeping bag's care instructions. Some bags may have specific instructions or requirements for drying. It's important to follow these guidelines to avoid damaging your sleeping bag.
If you're using a dryer, set it to a low heat setting. High heat can damage the delicate nylon fabric of your sleeping bag. Synthetic sleeping bags will dry quicker than down sleeping bags, so adjust the drying time accordingly. If you're air-drying, choose a flat surface in an area with low humidity and no direct sunlight. You can also hang your sleeping bag to dry, but be careful not to put too much stress on the fabric.
To speed up the drying process and ensure the filling regains its natural loft, add two to three tennis balls to the dryer. The tennis balls will help break up clumps of down and speed up drying. If you're air-drying, periodically massage the filling between your hands to achieve the same effect.
It's important to ensure your sleeping bag is thoroughly dry before storing it. Lay it out or hang it up overnight to make sure no moisture remains. If you're using a dryer, you can run multiple cycles to ensure complete dryness.
By following these steps and drying your sleeping bag on low heat, you can effectively remove moisture and prepare your sleeping bag for storage or its next use.
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Frequently asked questions
You should wash your sleeping bag at least once a year, but if you use it more frequently, you may need to wash it more often. If you notice any signs of dirt or odour, it's time to give it a wash.
You can hand wash your sleeping bag in a bathtub or use a commercial-size washer at a laundromat. If you're using a machine, make sure it's a front-loading washer without an agitator column. Use warm water and a small amount of mild, non-liquid detergent. Avoid using bleach, especially if you have a natural down sleeping bag.
You can air dry your sleeping bag by laying it flat on a clean surface in an area with low humidity and no direct sunlight, or you can hang it up to dry. If you're using a dryer, set it to low heat and add a couple of tennis balls to speed up the drying process and help break up clumps of down.
