Gina Johnson
Sleeping bags should be kept clean, dry, and protected while camping. This makes them last longer and insulate more efficiently. To avoid a full wash, spot cleaning is recommended, as washing a sleeping bag can cause damage. However, if your bag is dirty and has lost its fluffiness, it's time to give it a good wash. Here is a guide on how to wash a Kelty down sleeping bag.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cleaning Frequency | It is recommended to clean your sleeping bag at least once a year or before storing it for an extended period. |
| Spot Cleaning | Before washing, spot clean the bag by gently separating the fabric from the insulation and washing the fabric. |
| Airing Out | After each use, turn the bag inside out and lay it in partial sun for about 10 minutes to air out. |
| Washing | If washing is necessary, hand wash the bag in a bathtub or send it to a facility with industrial-sized washers. |
| Drying | Air dry the bag on a cool, dry surface, avoiding extreme heat. Alternatively, tumble dry on low heat, checking frequently to avoid overheating. |
| Fluffing | To restore fluffiness, add clean tennis balls to the dryer or gently massage the bag to break up clumps. |
| Storage | Store the dry bag loosely in a large cotton or mesh sack, a large pillowcase, or a cotton bag. Do not store compressed or in a watertight bag. |
| Liners | Use a sleeping bag liner to keep the bag clean and add extra warmth. |
| Protection | Protect the bag from dirt, sparks, and sharp objects. Avoid jumping or standing in the bag. |
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What You'll Learn
Spot cleaning and airing out
Kelty recommends spot cleaning and airing out your sleeping bag before attempting to wash it. This is because washing your sleeping bag can cause damage to the seams and internal down migration.
To spot clean your bag, first remove any food debris. Then, gently separate the fabric from the insulation and spot wash the fabric, being careful to avoid getting the insulation wet. Use a gentle, non-detergent soap designed for down or synthetic insulation, depending on your bag type. You can purchase this from your local gear shop.
After spot cleaning, drape your bag over your tent or lay it on a cool, dry surface to air dry. If you choose to hang your bag, be sure to distribute the weight so as not to put too much stress on the fabric. Avoid hanging your bag out in extreme heat or direct sunlight, as this can damage the bag. Instead, opt for partial sun or mild sun.
If your bag is down, you may need to gently massage the down clumps apart. You can also add a few clean tennis balls to help fluff up the down and break up any clumps.
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Hand washing
To hand wash your bag, start by removing any food debris and gently separating the fabric from the insulation. You can then spot clean the fabric, being careful to avoid getting the insulation wet. If you need to wash the entire bag, fill a clean bathtub or another large waterproof vessel with cool or warm water and add the recommended amount of the appropriate soap. For a down bag, you can use Granger's down wash or Nikwax's Down Wash. Do not use too much soap, as it will be harder to rinse out.
Next, unzip the bag completely and lay it in the water. Gently work the soap throughout the entire bag, paying particular attention to any heavily soiled areas. Allow the bag to soak for up to one hour, then drain the tub and carefully squeeze out the excess water. Refill the tub with clean water and knead the bag gently to work the water and soap through it. Be sure to get all the suds out, then carefully squeeze out the water again.
If you are air drying your bag, hang it delicately in a location with good ventilation and limited wind and sun. Be sure to avoid placing the bag in extreme heat. If you are using a dryer, carry the bag to a full-size dryer and tumble dry on low heat. Check the bag frequently to avoid overheating. When the bag is nearly dry, you can toss in a few clean tennis balls to help fluff up the down and break up any clumps.
It is important to ensure that your bag is fully dry before storing it to prevent the formation of mold or mildew.
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Drying
Air Drying
If you choose to air dry your bag, find a cool, dry surface, such as a large towel or a spot in your backyard with partial sun. Avoid placing the sleeping bag in extreme heat or direct sunlight, as this can damage the bag. Drape the bag over your tent or lay it flat, ensuring it is secure so it doesn't blow away in the wind. Even a few minutes in the mild sun can make a difference in the drying process.
Machine Drying
If you have access to a dryer, it is recommended to use a commercial-size or full-size dryer. The larger capacity will allow the sleeping bag to tumble and ensure even drying. Set the dryer to low heat, as high heat can damage the delicate nylon fabrics. Check the bag frequently to avoid overheating.
Breaking Up Clumps
Once the bag is nearly dry, check for clumps. Gently massage or rub the bag to break up any clumps that may have formed during the washing process. This step will help fluff up the down and restore its loft. You can also add dryer balls or a few clean tennis balls to aid in this process.
Final Drying and Storage
Ensure the bag is completely dry before storing. Lay it out flat for a day or overnight in a cool, dry place. Do not store your bag compressed in its stuff sack, as this can damage the fill. Instead, store it loosely in a large cotton or mesh storage sack, a large pillowcase, or a cotton bag you sew yourself.
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Avoiding dry cleaning
Dry cleaning your Kelty down sleeping bag is not recommended. The industrial solvents used in dry cleaning are harsh and can strip the natural oils from the down, which are essential for retaining its loft.
If you choose to wash and dry your bag yourself, you can hand wash it in a bathtub or use a machine washer. To hand wash, fill the tub with cool or warm water and add a cleaner specifically designed for washing down. Gently massage the bag to force water and soap through it, being careful not to pick it up during this process as it will put too much strain on the seams. After draining the tub, carefully squeeze out the water, refill with clean water, and knead the bag again to ensure all soap is rinsed out. Repeat this process until all the cleaner is removed.
If using a machine washer, ensure it is a front-loading washer or a top-loading machine without an agitator. Use a gentle cycle with warm or cold water and an appropriate soap, such as Granger's Down Wash or Nikwax Down Wash. Avoid using too much soap, and be sure to rinse at least twice to ensure all soap residue is gone.
After washing, carefully gather the bag from below and avoid lifting it by the fabric or from above to prevent damage to the seams. If you are tumble drying, use a low heat setting and check the bag frequently to avoid overheating. Alternatively, you can air dry your bag by laying it flat on a cool, dry surface, hanging it up, or draping it over your tent in mild sun, being mindful of wind. Ensure your bag is fully dry before storing to prevent mould or mildew from forming.
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Using a sleeping bag liner
Sleeping bag liners are a great way to keep your sleeping bag clean. They are made of lightweight cotton, silk, wool or polyester and act as a barrier between your skin and the bag. Liners can add 5 to 15 degrees Fahrenheit to your bag's temperature rating, providing extra warmth.
Using a liner means you won't have to wash your sleeping bag as frequently, reducing the wear and tear on the bag. Simply wash the liner after each trip and you're good to go. Liners are also useful for keeping your bag off the ground, protecting it from dirt and damage.
If you're camping or backpacking, it's a good idea to bring a sleeping bag liner to keep your bag clean. When you get home, unzip the bag and let it air out to ensure it's completely dry before storing it. You can also turn the bag inside out and lay it in partial sun for about 10 minutes to freshen it up.
To keep your sleeping bag in good condition, it's recommended to wash it at least once a year. Body oils and greasy residues will stay on the fabric if the bag is stored without being washed first. Liners can help to reduce the number of washes needed, as they protect the bag from these residues.
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