Herbie Murray
Sleeping bags are essential for camping and hiking trips, but they can get dirty quickly. Dirt, sweat, body oils, and grime can build up on the bag and compromise its insulating power. Therefore, it is important to know how to wash a sleeping bag properly to prolong its life and keep it in good condition. This guide will provide step-by-step instructions on how to wash a sleeping bag, including tips on spot cleaning, hand washing, and machine washing, to ensure your bag stays clean and functional for your outdoor adventures.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How to keep a sleeping bag clean | Use a sleeping pad, sleep in clean clothes, use a sleeping bag liner, and air out the bag to dry whenever it gets damp |
| When to wash a sleeping bag | When it gets really dusty or muddy, or stops keeping you warm |
| How to wash a sleeping bag | Machine wash with a front-loading machine on a gentle cycle, or hand wash in lukewarm water with a small amount of mild soap or down cleaner |
| How to dry a sleeping bag | Use a commercial-size dryer on low heat, or air dry by laying it flat in an area with low humidity and no direct sunlight |
| What not to do | Do not dry clean, bleach, or use fabric softener on a sleeping bag |
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What You'll Learn
When to wash your sleeping bag
While it's important to know how to wash a sleeping bag, it's also crucial to understand when to wash it. Sleeping bags don't need to be washed after every use, and over-washing can damage the fabric and decrease its insulation. So, when is the right time to wash your sleeping bag?
Firstly, if your sleeping bag is visibly dirty, stained, or darkened with grime, it's time for a wash. Body oils, sweat, dirt, and food particles can contaminate the insulation, making it clump together and reducing its effectiveness. If you've been wearing dirty clothes or have applied sunscreen or bug spray, these oils and chemicals can also migrate into the bag, compromising its loft and warmth.
Secondly, if your sleeping bag is no longer keeping you as warm as it used to, it likely needs a wash. The down or synthetic fill needs to fluff up (loft) to create small air pockets that trap body heat. Over time, dirt and body oils can build up, causing the fill to clump and reducing the bag's ability to insulate. Washing the bag helps break up these clumps and restore its fluffiness and warmth.
Additionally, it's a good idea to wash your sleeping bag at the end of the camping season or before storing it for an extended period. Body oils and other residues can build up during use, and if the bag is stored without a good wash, any trapped moisture can fester. Washing the bag before storage helps prevent this and ensures it's clean and ready for your next adventure.
Remember, spot cleaning or washing only the soiled spots can help extend the time between full washes. However, if your bag is very dirty, has absorbed moisture, or is no longer keeping you warm, it's probably time for a full wash.
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How to wash by hand
Handwashing a sleeping bag is a delicate process that requires care and attention. Firstly, it is important to note that handwashing is a labour-intensive process, so be prepared for a thorough workout!
If your sleeping bag is only slightly soiled, spot washing is a good option to consider. Create a paste with a small amount of mild soap or down wash and some water. Gently apply the paste to the dirty area, being careful to hold the fabric away from the insulation. Use a soft cloth or toothbrush to clean the fabric gently. Rinse the area carefully, ensuring the inner fill does not get wet, and then let it air dry.
For a full hand wash, fill a large sink or bathtub with lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild soap or a specialist down cleaner. Ensure you use a product that is specifically designed for down or synthetic bags, as standard laundry detergents can damage the bag. Follow the instructions on the bottle for the correct amount to use. Submerge the sleeping bag in the water and gently push it up and down to ensure the soap reaches all areas. Allow the bag to soak, and if there are any stubborn stains, use a sponge to gently work them out. Drain the soapy water and carefully press out as much liquid as possible from the bag. Refill the tub with clean water, and press it into the bag, then drain again.
After washing, it is important to dry your sleeping bag thoroughly. Air drying is a good option, but it can take a long time. Lay the bag flat on a clean surface in an area with low humidity and no direct sunlight, or hang it up, being careful not to put too much stress on the fabric. Ensure the bag is completely dry before storing it.
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Machine washing tips
Before machine washing your sleeping bag, check the manufacturer's care instructions and follow their recommendations. If you're using a machine, make sure it's a front-loading machine with a gentle cycle. Top-loading machines with a central agitator can damage your sleeping bag. Close all zippers and Velcro attachments before washing.
Use a commercial-size washer at a laundromat, as the larger capacity ensures your bag is thoroughly rinsed. If you can't access a laundromat, use a front-loading washer at home. Avoid top-loading washers with agitator columns, as your bag could become entangled and damaged.
When washing, use a mild soap or detergent specifically designed for down and synthetic-filled items, such as Nikwax Down Wash Direct or Grangers Down Wash. Avoid using standard laundry detergents, fabric softeners, bleach, or alternative bleach products, as they can damage the bag's fibres and compromise its loft.
After washing, support the entire bag when removing it from the washer to avoid straining and ripping the seams. Gently squeeze out the excess water before drying.
For down sleeping bags, add two to three tennis balls to help restore the loft and speed up the drying process. Synthetic bags may also benefit from tennis balls, but they are optional. Run the dryer for at least an hour, and possibly longer, to ensure the bag is completely dry before storing it.
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Drying your sleeping bag
First, it's important to remove excess water from the sleeping bag. If you've machine-washed your bag, gently squeeze out the excess water. If you've hand-washed it, drain the soapy water from the tub and press as much water out of the bag as possible.
Next, decide on your drying method. You can use a dryer, air dry your bag, or hang it up to dry. If you choose to use a dryer, it's best to use a commercial-size one, as they have larger capacities that allow fully lofted sleeping bags to tumble. Set the dryer on low heat, as high heat can damage delicate nylon fabrics. For down sleeping bags, add two to three tennis balls to help break up clumps and speed up the drying process. For synthetic bags, tennis balls are optional but can still be helpful. Run the dryer for at least an hour, and possibly longer, until the bag is completely dry.
If you choose to air dry your bag, lay it flat on a clean surface in an area with low humidity and no direct sunlight. You can also hang it up to dry, but be careful to distribute the weight evenly to avoid putting too much stress on the fabric. Air drying will take longer, so you may want to let it dry overnight to ensure it's completely dry before storing it.
Regardless of the drying method you choose, make sure your sleeping bag is completely dry before placing it in its storage bag. If you put it away while still damp, mildew can form and compromise the insulation.
By following these steps, you can effectively dry your sleeping bag and maintain its warmth and comfort for your next outdoor adventure.
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Preventative measures to avoid frequent washing
Sleeping bags should be washed infrequently, ideally once a year, at a minimum. However, if you use your bag more frequently, you may need to wash it more often. The best time to wash your bag is before storing it for an extended period. Here are some preventative measures to avoid frequent washing:
- Use a sleeping pad: A sleeping pad will protect your bag from dirt, sticks, and thorns, keeping it cleaner for longer. It also provides an extra layer of protection from the ground, preserving the underside of your bag.
- Wash up before bed: If you use sunscreen, insect repellent, or have been cooking, wipe your skin with a face wipe or a bandana. This will help prevent oils from migrating into your bag.
- Sleep in clean clothes: Sleeping in the clothes you've hiked or cooked in can bring sweat, body oils, dirt, and food particles into your sleeping bag. These contaminants will, over time, affect the insulation of your bag, making it less effective.
- Pick the right sleeping layers: Avoid wearing clothes that are too warm, as you may sweat during the night, which will contaminate your bag.
- Use a sleeping bag liner: A liner is a lightweight way to protect your bag from sweat and body oils. It can be easily washed after trips and adds a bit of warmth on cold nights. Liners can be made from cotton, silk, wool, or polyester.
- Air out your sleeping bag daily: During breaks, unzip your bag and lay it over your tent to let it air out and dry any condensation. This will prevent dampness and the build-up of odours.
- Treat it gently: Avoid jumping around while standing inside your sleeping bag, as this can damage the toe box.
- Be picky about lending: If a friend wants to borrow your bag, set some rules and ask them to use a liner. Show them how the zippers and cords work to avoid any damage.
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