Gina Johnson
Military sleeping bags, including the USMC sleep system, are designed to be durable and tough. However, they still need to be cared for properly to ensure their longevity and efficiency. This guide will walk you through the best practices for washing, drying, and maintaining a USMC sleeping bag. From using mild detergents and avoiding harsh chemicals to utilising front-loading washing machines, you'll be able to keep your gear in prime shape and be ready for your next outdoor adventure.
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What You'll Learn
Use a front-loading washing machine
If you decide to use a washing machine to clean your USMC sleeping bag, it's best to use a front-loading machine on the gentlest cycle available. Military sleeping bags are designed to be durable and tough enough to withstand washing in industrial washing machines. However, using a front-loading machine is recommended because older top-loading washing machines typically had an agitator in the middle of the basin, which could cause the sleeping bag to get caught and damaged. Most top-loading washers today do not have a central agitator, so it is generally safe to use them for washing your sleeping bag.
When washing your USMC sleeping bag in a front-loading machine, there are several steps you can take to ensure optimal cleaning and maintenance:
- Use the right laundry detergent: Choose a mild, non-detergent soap without bleach. Avoid using fabric softener, as it can damage the sleeping bag fibres.
- Wash on a warm, gentle cycle: Select a gentle and delicate setting, such as "gentle delicate" or "wool wash". Washing on a cold setting is also an option, especially if you are concerned about the water temperature in the barracks washing machines.
- Add tennis balls: Putting a few tennis balls into the washing machine will help prevent the insulation from clumping together during the wash.
- Run an extra rinse cycle: This ensures that no soap residue is left in the sleeping bag, which can affect its insulating properties. Test the bag for soap residue by pressing on the wet fabric; if suds appear, run another rinse cycle.
- Dry the sleeping bag: After washing, carefully remove the sleeping bag from the machine and lay it flat outside or near a drain. Avoid using a dryer, as the heat can damage the bag. Allow the sleeping bag to air dry thoroughly, maintaining its waterproof qualities.
By following these steps and using a front-loading washing machine, you can effectively clean your USMC sleeping bag while preserving its condition and functionality.
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Wash on a gentle cycle
When it comes to washing a USMC sleeping bag, it's important to follow specific steps to ensure the bag is cleaned effectively without causing any damage. While handwashing is always an option, using a washing machine on a gentle cycle can be a convenient choice. Here's a detailed guide on how to wash your USMC sleeping bag in a machine on a gentle setting:
Prepare the Sleeping Bag
Before placing your sleeping bag in the washing machine, there are a few preparatory steps to take. Firstly, unzip the bag completely to allow for more thorough cleaning and better air circulation during the washing process. Additionally, close any Velcro straps to prevent lint from accumulating on them and to avoid snagging. It is also recommended to turn the sleeping bag inside out, as this will expose the dirty side and ensure a more effective clean.
Choose the Right Detergent
Selecting the appropriate detergent for your USMC sleeping bag is crucial. Opt for a mild detergent that is free of harsh chemicals and bleach. A gentle, non-detergent soap designed for washing down and synthetic-filled items is ideal. If you're unable to find a specific soap for down or synthetic bags, a mild, non-detergent soap without bleach will suffice. Remember, never use fabric softener as it can damage the sleeping bag's fibers.
Add Tennis Balls
Before starting the wash cycle, place a few tennis balls into the washing machine along with the sleeping bag. This may seem unusual, but the tennis balls will bounce around gently during the wash, preventing the insulation from clumping together and helping to maintain the sleeping bag's fluffiness.
Select the Gentle Cycle
Now it's time to choose the right washing machine cycle. Opt for the gentlest cycle available on your machine, typically labelled as "gentle delicate" or "wool wash." These settings are designed to provide a more gentle agitation and slower spin speed, ensuring your sleeping bag is cleaned without being damaged.
Wash on Gentle Cycle
Once you've selected the gentle cycle, let the washing machine do its work. The gentle cycle will typically use cooler water and a slower spin speed to clean your sleeping bag gently. During the wash, the tennis balls will also be at work, ensuring the insulation stays fluffy and clump-free.
Rinse and Repeat if Necessary
After the gentle cycle has finished, carefully remove the sleeping bag from the machine and inspect it. If you notice any soap residue or suds when pressing on the wet fabric, it's important to run an extra rinse cycle to ensure all the soap is removed. Soap residue can affect the insulating properties of the sleeping bag, so it's crucial to ensure a thorough rinse.
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Avoid harsh chemicals
When washing a USMC sleeping bag, it is important to avoid harsh chemicals and bleach to protect the material and insulation.
If you are handwashing your sleeping bag, use a mild detergent or soap. You can fill up a bathtub or a large basin with cool or warm water and add a small amount of mild detergent or soap. Avoid using too much, as it will be harder to rinse out. Work the soap throughout the bag, paying extra attention to heavily soiled areas. Allow the bag to soak for up to an hour, then drain the water and gently squeeze out the excess. Repeat the process until all the soap is out.
If you are using a washing machine, choose a mild detergent or soap that is specifically formulated for down sleeping bags, such as Nikwax Down Wash Direct, or one that states it is safe for use on down items. Avoid using standard laundry detergent, as it can cause clumping or reduced loft. Use the gentlest cycle available, preferably with cold or warm water, and only add as much soap as is necessary to avoid over-sudsing.
It is recommended to run a second rinse cycle without soap to ensure that all the detergent is removed. Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach, as these can damage the material and insulation of your sleeping bag.
Additionally, when drying your sleeping bag, avoid high heat as it can melt delicate nylon fabrics. Set your dryer to low heat and consider using tennis balls to break up any clumps of insulation as your bag dries.
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Air dry
If you are going to wash your USMC sleeping bag, it is recommended to air dry it thoroughly to maintain its waterproof qualities. If you decide to use a washing machine, it is best to use a front-loading machine on the gentlest cycle available, and a low heat setting. However, it is advised to avoid machine washing altogether, as it can damage the insulation of the sleeping bag.
To air dry your USMC sleeping bag, you can follow these steps:
- After washing, carefully remove the sleeping bag from the machine and carry it to the drying area.
- Lay the sleeping bag flat in an area with good ventilation, such as outside or near a drain.
- Ensure that the sleeping bag is fully dried before storing it.
- Store the sleeping bag loosely in a large cotton or mesh storage sack to maintain its shape and functionality.
It is important to note that you should avoid drying your USMC sleeping bag in direct sunlight, as this can cause the material to degrade and become brittle. Additionally, avoid dry cleaning your sleeping bag, as the chemicals can harm the insulation and affect its ability to retain heat.
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Use a sleeping bag liner
Using a sleeping bag liner is a great way to keep your USMC sleeping bag clean. Liners can be made from cotton, silk, wool, or polyester and are lightweight. They act as a barrier between your skin and the sleeping bag, preventing dirt, oils, and odours from reaching the bag. Liners are particularly useful if you've been cooking, as they can stop your sleeping bag from absorbing food odours, which could attract wildlife.
Sleeping bag liners are also beneficial for temperature regulation. They can add 5 to 15 degrees Fahrenheit to your bag's temperature rating, providing extra warmth on colder nights. This added warmth means you may not need to wash your sleeping bag as frequently, as body oils and dirt will accumulate on the liner instead.
At the end of your trip, simply wash the liner, and it will be ready for your next adventure. Liners can be washed in a washing machine, unlike the USMC sleeping bag, which should be hand-washed or spot-cleaned to avoid damage. Hand-washing can be done in a large basin with mild detergent and water. Spot-cleaning can be done with a sponge, mild soap, and water, taking care not to get the insulation wet.
Remember to always check the manufacturer's washing instructions for your sleeping bag liner and follow those guidelines. By using a liner and properly maintaining your USMC sleeping bag, you can ensure its longevity and keep it in prime condition for future outdoor adventures.
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