Evie Summers
Sleeping bags can be washed at home, but they require extra care. Slumberjack sleeping bags, in particular, need additional care due to their special construction and size. It is recommended to spot clean your bag before risking damage by fully washing it. If you do choose to wash your Slumberjack sleeping bag, it is best to use a mild detergent and warm water, and to wash the bag on a gentle cycle with the bag zippered closed. You can also hand wash the bag with warm water and a mild detergent, rinse until the soap is gone, and hang the bag over a clothesline to dry.
How to Wash a Slumberjack Sleeping Bag
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Spot cleaning | Recommended before fully washing the bag |
| Airing out the bag | Recommended if the bag smells like smoke |
| Hand washing | Recommended; use warm water and a mild detergent |
| Machine washing | Use a front-loading washer without an agitator; wash on gentle with mild detergent and warm water |
| Soap | Use non-detergent soap; add the recommended amount |
| Drying | Air dry with good ventilation and limited wind and sun; can also be dried in a dryer using cold air only |
| Frequency of washing | Every few years, depending on usage |
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What You'll Learn
Spot cleaning vs full wash
Spot cleaning and fully washing your sleeping bag both have their own advantages and considerations. Here is a detailed comparison between the two methods:
Spot Cleaning
Spot cleaning is a gentle and less time-consuming alternative to fully washing your sleeping bag. It is ideal for addressing small areas of dirt or grime and can effectively remove body oils, sweat, and dirt that accumulate in specific areas, such as the hood and collar. To spot clean, simply apply a small amount of mild, non-detergent soap to the affected area, gently work it into the fabric with a soft-bristle toothbrush, and then rinse with a wet sponge. By holding the shell or liner fabric away from the insulation, you can clean and rinse without getting the inner fill wet. Spot cleaning helps extend the life of your sleeping bag by reducing the frequency of full washes, which can cause wear and tear and decrease the loft. It is a good idea to spot clean your bag regularly and before considering a full wash.
Full Wash
Fully washing your sleeping bag can be a more labour-intensive and time-consuming process. It is recommended to hand wash the bag in a bathtub or use a commercial-size washer and dryer at a laundromat. Full washes should be done at least once a year or more frequently if used regularly. It is important to use the appropriate soap for your bag type, such as a mild soap or a specialised product for down or synthetic bags. Avoid using conventional laundry detergents as they may contain harsh chemicals that can damage the bag. When washing, gently work the soap into the bag, paying extra attention to heavily soiled areas. Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue, and then gently squeeze out the excess water. Drying can take several hours, especially for down bags, and it is important to ensure the bag is completely dry before storing to prevent mould or mildew. Full washes are necessary when the bag is darkened with grime or has lost its loft, ensuring peak performance and extending the life of your sleeping bag.
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$49.98
Machine wash instructions
Firstly, it is recommended to spot clean your bag before risking damage by fully washing it. If your bag smells like smoke, leave it outside for the day to air out. Bags are not meant to be washed very often to keep their temperature rating and quality over the years.
If you do decide to machine wash your Slumberjack sleeping bag, use a front-loading washer that is large enough to accommodate queen or king-sized comforters. Avoid a top loader with an agitator as these can easily rip the seams of a sleeping bag. Top loaders without agitators are fine, as long as they are a good size.
Place the sleeping bag, by itself, into the washer. Choose the gentle or bedding cycle. The bedding cycle is for large items like comforters and pillows. Add the recommended amount of the appropriate soap. For down bags, check out Granger's down wash or Nikwax's Down Wash. For synthetic bags, use a gentle, non-detergent soap.
Once the wash cycle has ended, check for remaining suds. Do another rinse and spin, if necessary, to get all the soap out.
You can then transfer the bag to the dryer, using cold air only. Tumble dry on a low heat so the fabric doesn't melt. Toss in a few tennis balls to fluff and separate.
Be sure your bag is fully dry before storing. If air drying, hang it delicately where it will get good ventilation and limited wind and sun.
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Hand wash instructions
Slumberjack sleeping bags require additional care due to their special construction and size. Before washing, it is recommended to spot clean your bag to avoid potential damage. If your bag smells like smoke, leave it outside for the day to air out. Bags are not meant to be washed often to maintain their temperature rating and quality.
If you choose to hand wash your bag, fill a tub with cool or warm water and add a mild or non-detergent soap. You can use products like Granger's down wash or Nikwax's Down Wash if you are washing a down bag. Gently massage the bag to force water/soap through it, being careful not to pick up the bag to avoid strain on the seams. After cleaning, carefully squeeze out the water without picking up the bag.
If you are air-drying the bag, hang it delicately in a well-ventilated area with limited wind and sun. Before it is completely dry, gently separate any clumps of feathers to prevent major bunching. Once 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. Ensure the bag is fully dry before storing to prevent mould or mildew from forming.
It is important to note that washing a sleeping bag can cause insulation migration, leading to potential cold spots. This issue is generally not covered under warranties. Therefore, it is recommended to hand wash your bag gently or send it to a facility with industrial-sized washers that specialize in washing sleeping bags.
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Drying techniques
Drying your Slumberjack sleeping bag is a crucial step in the washing process, as improper drying can lead to mould or mildew forming. Here are some detailed techniques to ensure your sleeping bag is dried effectively:
Air Drying
Air drying is a gentle method to dry your sleeping bag. Find a spot with good ventilation and limited wind and sun. Hang the bag delicately to avoid any strain on its structure. When air drying, it is essential to allow ample time for the bag to dry completely. This process can take several hours, and you may need to leave it overnight to ensure it is entirely dry. If your bag is nearly dry, you can gently pull apart any clumps of feathers to ensure even drying.
Machine Drying
Using a dryer can expedite the drying process, but caution must be exercised to avoid potential damage to the sleeping bag. It is recommended to use a large front-loading dryer set to a low-temperature setting. This slow and gentle approach should be maintained for at least 3-5 hours. To restore the fluffiness of the down filling and break up any clumps, toss in a few clean tennis balls once the bag is nearly dry. Alternatively, you can use special dryer balls, such as those included in the Grangers Down Wash kit, which are designed for this purpose.
Drying in a Laundry Sack
For sleeping bags with delicate shell or liner materials, it is advisable to use a large cotton or mesh laundry sack during the drying process. This provides an extra layer of protection for the bag. Place the sleeping bag in the sack and set the dryer to a low-heat or 'delicates' setting. Remember to remove the bag from the dryer and turn it inside out before returning it to the sack and drying it again. Avoid using dryer sheets, as they can negatively affect the water-repellent finish and wicking performance of the bag.
Drying After Camping Trips
After a camping trip, it is essential to air out your sleeping bag as soon as possible. Turn it inside out to dry any moisture and ensure it is completely dry before storing it. This practice will help maintain the bag's longevity and insulation efficiency.
General Tips
Regardless of the drying method, always ensure your sleeping bag is fully dry before storing it away. Incomplete drying can lead to the formation of mould or mildew, compromising the bag's integrity. Additionally, avoid storing your sleeping bag in a compressed state for extended periods, as this can damage the fill and reduce its loft. Instead, store it loosely in a cool, dry place with low humidity, using a breathable storage sack.
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Avoiding damage
To avoid damaging your Slumberjack sleeping bag, it is recommended to spot clean the bag before attempting to fully wash it. This is because fully washing the bag can cause insulation migration, resulting in cold spots. Bags are not meant to be washed frequently to maintain their temperature rating and quality. If possible, hand wash your bag in a clean bathtub or another large waterproof vessel. Fill the tub with cool or warm water and add a non-detergent or residue-free soap, such as Granger's down wash, Nikwax Techwash, Woolite, or Downey. Avoid using a washing machine or dryer as these can be too aggressive and increase the risk of damaging your bag.
When hand washing, gently massage the bag to force water and soap through it, being careful not to pick it up as this can strain the seams. After cleaning, drain the tub and carefully squeeze out the excess water. If using a dryer, opt for a large front-loading dryer and dry at a low temperature for at least 3-5 hours. Avoid drying in direct sunlight or strong winds, as this can cause damage. When the bag is nearly dry, gently pull apart any clumps of feathers to ensure even drying. Make sure the bag is completely dry before storing it to prevent mould or mildew from forming.
To prolong the life of your sleeping bag and reduce the need for frequent washing, take preventative measures. For example, always sleep in clean clothes and use a sleeping bag liner to create a barrier between your skin and the bag, reducing the absorption of body oils, sweat, and dirt. Additionally, protect your bag from the ground by placing a pad underneath it when sleeping outdoors, and avoid jumping or standing in the bag to prevent tears.
If you choose to dry clean your bag, be cautious. Strong dry-cleaning solvents can strip the natural oils from the down, affecting its loft and resiliency. Choose a knowledgeable dry cleaner who understands the different fluids and their effects on the fabric. A mild petroleum dry-cleaning agent, such as Stoddard Fluid, is less likely to cause damage.
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Frequently asked questions
Slumberjack sleeping bags are large and require special care. It is recommended to spot clean your bag before attempting to fully wash it, as washing it may cause damage that is not covered under the warranty. If possible, hand wash your bag with warm water and a mild detergent, or send it to a facility with industrial-sized washers. If you choose to machine wash, use a front-loading washer on a gentle cycle with a mild detergent and warm water, and ensure the bag is zipped closed.
It is important to use soap, not detergent, and to take special care with down-filled sleeping bags. Down can lose its natural loft and clump in the dryer. Use a non-detergent soap such as Granger's Down Wash, Nikwax Down Wash, or Nikwax Techwash. Avoid fabric softener, bleach, and other non-bleach alternatives.
If air drying, hang the bag delicately where it will get good ventilation and limited wind and sun. When the bag is nearly dry, gently pull apart the clumps of feathers to ensure there are no major bunches. You can also toss in a few clean tennis balls to help fluff up the down. Make sure your bag is fully dry before storing, otherwise, you run the risk of mould or mildew forming.
