Colin Snow
A Coleman sleeping bag is a trusted trail companion that provides warmth and comfort for camping. Proper cleaning and care are required to maintain its lifespan and loft—the fluffy insulation that keeps you warm. When storing your Coleman sleeping bag, it is important to consider both short-term and long-term storage options. For short-term storage while camping, a compression sack is ideal. For long-term storage, a large storage bag will help maintain the bag's loft and lifespan. This paragraph will discuss the steps to effectively store a Coleman sleeping bag for both the short and long term, ensuring it remains in top condition.
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What You'll Learn
Short-term storage: use a compression sack
For short-term storage, Coleman recommends using a compression sack. This is ideal for when you're camping. Compression sacks are designed to be stuffed, not rolled, and they can make packing your sleeping bag much easier. They use straps to compact your sleeping bag, reducing its packed size.
To use a compression sack, start with the footbox and 'stack' your sleeping bag by grabbing and stuffing the bag from bottom to top. This will prevent the bag from getting twisted or wrapped tightly around itself, reducing the risk of tears. You can also place other soft gear, like a pillow or extra clothing layers, in with your sleeping bag to save even more space.
When choosing a compression sack, ensure it is appropriately sized for your sleeping bag. Stuff the sleeping bag in small sections, using gentle but firm pressure to pack it into the sack. Double-check for sharp folds or areas of excessive strain, as these can damage the sleeping bag over time.
Always store your sleeping bag in a dry, cool, and climate-controlled area, away from direct sunlight. Moisture and temperature extremes can damage the bag, so avoid storing it in damp basements, unheated spaces, garages, attics, or car trunks.
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Long-term storage: use a large storage bag
When preparing your Coleman sleeping bag for long-term storage, it is recommended that you use a large storage bag to maintain the bag's loft and lifespan. This method is ideal for when you're back home and won't be using the sleeping bag for a while. Here are the steps to follow for effective long-term storage:
Firstly, ensure that you have an appropriately sized large storage bag for your Coleman sleeping bag. It should be spacious enough to accommodate the bag without excessive compression. Before storing, it is crucial to inspect the sleeping bag for any tears or damage. If any issues are found, make sure to repair them before proceeding.
Next, instead of rolling the Coleman sleeping bag, gently push it into the large storage bag in small sections. Use gentle but firm pressure to pack the bag, ensuring that it is not overly compressed. Avoid sharp folds or areas of excessive strain, as these can damage the insulation and fabric. Stuffing the bag instead of rolling it is generally recommended for long-term storage to reduce the risk of damage.
Once the Coleman sleeping bag is stored in the large bag, choose a suitable storage location. The ideal spot is a dry, climate-controlled area, away from direct sunlight. Attics, closets, or storage rooms that maintain a consistent temperature and have good ventilation are excellent choices. Avoid basements or areas prone to moisture, as this can lead to mould or unpleasant odours.
During the off-season or when the sleeping bag is not in use for extended periods, remember to air out and fluff the bag periodically. This practice helps maintain its loft and freshness. Place the bag outside on a dry, sunny day, but avoid excessive exposure to direct sunlight, as UV rays can damage the sleeping bag's fibres over time.
By following these steps and utilising a large storage bag for your Coleman sleeping bag, you can ensure that it remains in good condition and retains its functionality for many adventures to come.
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Don't store it wet
When it comes to storing your Coleman sleeping bag, it is imperative that you don't store it when it is wet. Moisture can lead to the growth of mould and mildew on the surface and inside the insulation of your sleeping bag, compromising its performance and longevity.
To prevent this, ensure your sleeping bag is thoroughly dry before storing it. Firstly, fully unzip the bag. Then, hang it over a line or on a large hanger in a covered outdoor space for 6 to 8 hours. If the outer shell of your bag is waterproof, aid the drying process by turning the bag inside out for the first 4 hours, and then turning it back for the remaining time. Avoid leaving the bag in direct sunlight, as UV rays can weaken the fabric. Alternatively, if outdoor space is unavailable, hang the bag in a dry, temperature-controlled indoor area.
If you're in a hurry, speed up the drying process by setting up a fan or dehumidifier, or using a large commercial dryer on a low heat setting. To maintain the bag's loft, toss in a few clean tennis balls while drying. Remember to check the bag frequently to prevent damage from heat or twisting.
Once your sleeping bag is completely dry, you can prepare it for storage. For long-term storage, it is recommended to store your bag in a large storage bag, such as the jumbo cotton bag it may have come with, to maintain loft and lifespan. If you don't have a large storage bag, a cotton or mesh sack of 90L or larger will suffice. Stuff the bag into the storage sack in small sections, using gentle but firm pressure, and ensure there are no sharp folds or areas of excessive strain.
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How to roll it up
To roll up your Coleman sleeping bag, first lay the bag out flat in front of you and zip it up. Push out any large air pockets through the head of the bag, and smooth it out to get rid of as much air as possible. Air pockets will prevent an even, tight roll.
Next, fold the sleeping bag in half lengthwise. One source suggests folding it with the zipped side on the outside, whereas another recommends folding so that the zipped side is on the inside, and suggests that this will make it easier to roll the bag up tightly.
Now you can start rolling the bag up from the foot end. Roll upwards firmly, using both hands to knead the bag and push out any remaining air through the hole at the top. Sit on the bag with your knees to keep it tight as you roll.
Once the bag is completely rolled up, use the attached straps to secure it. If your bag does not have straps, you can use a belt, large rubber bands, or rope to keep it rolled up.
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Keep it dry and safe
Keeping your Coleman sleeping bag dry and safe is essential to maintaining its lifespan and functionality. Here are some detailed instructions to ensure your sleeping bag remains in top condition:
Firstly, when it comes to cleaning, opt for hand washing to provide delicate care for the bag. Close all zippers, fasteners, and Velcro, and check for any tears or damage. If you do find any tears, be sure to repair them before washing to prevent further damage. Prepare a tub with cold water and mix in a down- or synthetic-safe detergent. The amount of detergent should be as recommended by the manufacturer. Submerge the sleeping bag and gently clean it, ensuring that all areas are thoroughly cleaned. Drain the tub, refill it with clean water, and rinse the bag. Repeat the rinsing step until no soap suds remain. Gently press out the excess water from the bag—avoid wringing it out as this can damage the bag.
When drying, avoid using a dryer, as the spin cycle can cause the internal insulating material to clump together, reducing its ability to keep you warm. Instead, air-dry the bag by laying it flat in a shaded, well-ventilated area. You can also hang it on a drying line outdoors or indoors in a laundry room or garage. Adding a few tennis balls while drying helps maintain the bag's loft, preventing clumping. Ensure the bag is completely dry before storing to prevent mold or odours.
For short-term storage while camping, keep the sleeping bag in a compression sack. For long-term storage, use a large storage bag to maintain loft and lifespan. When placing the bag in the storage sack or bag, gently push it in, section by section, without rolling it. Ensure the bag is stored in a dry, climate-controlled area, away from direct sunlight.
Additionally, it is recommended to air out and fluff your bag periodically during the off-season to keep it in optimal condition.
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Frequently asked questions
For short-term storage while camping, keep your Coleman sleeping bag in a compression sack. Make sure the sack is the appropriate size for your bag. Before placing the bag inside, zip it closed and push out any large air pockets. Then, instead of rolling the bag, stuff it into the compression sack in small sections, using gentle but firm pressure.
For long-term storage, place your Coleman sleeping bag in a large storage bag to maintain its loft and lifespan. As with short-term storage, zip the bag closed and push out any air pockets before placing it in the bag. Then, stuff the bag into the storage bag in small sections. Store your sleeping bag in a dry, climate-controlled area, away from direct sunlight. During the off-season, periodically air out and fluff your bag.
Before storing your Coleman sleeping bag, ensure it is completely dry to prevent mold or odors. Brush out any dirt, twigs, or leaves, and gently pull any leaking down feathers back into the bag. If your bag came with straps, use them to keep it rolled. Otherwise, you can use a belt, large rubber bands, or rope.
