Colin Snow
Sleeping bags should be washed infrequently and only when necessary. When a sleeping bag is washed, it is subject to wear and tear, and its loft decreases. However, a dirty sleeping bag is less warm and comfortable, so it is important to know how to wash it properly.
How to Wash Down Sleeping Bags
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How often to wash | Only wash when there are obvious signs of dirt or odour, or when the bag is failing to loft sufficiently. |
| When to wash | Before storing the bag at the end of the season or for an extended period of time. |
| How to prevent washing | Use a sleeping bag liner, sleep in clean clothes, and air out the bag to keep it dry. |
| How to wash | Hand wash in a bathtub or use a commercial-size washer and dryer at a laundromat. Use a specialist down cleaning product, soap flakes, or a mild detergent. Do not use standard laundry detergent. |
| Drying | Use a commercial-size dryer if possible. Set the dryer on low heat to avoid melting delicate nylon fabrics. Add tennis balls or dryer balls to the dryer to help with lofting. |
| Storage | Store loosely in a large cotton or mesh storage sack, a pillowcase, or a cotton bag. Do not store compressed in its stuff sack as this will damage the fill. |
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What You'll Learn
Use a sleeping bag liner to keep your bag clean
Using a sleeping bag liner is a great way to keep your bag clean and reduce the number of times you need to wash it. Liners can be made of cotton, silk, wool, or polyester and are lightweight and easy to pack. They act as a barrier between your skin and the bag, protecting it from body oils, sweat, and dirt, which can reduce the bag's insulating power over time. Liners can also add 5 to 15 degrees Fahrenheit to your bag's temperature rating, keeping you warmer during cold nights.
At the end of your trip, simply remove the liner from your sleeping bag and wash it. This is much easier and less time-consuming than washing the entire bag. Make sure to follow the care instructions for your liner, as they may vary depending on the material. Properly caring for your liner will ensure that it lasts a long time.
When choosing a sleeping bag liner, consider the climate you'll be using it in and your personal comfort preferences. Cotton and silk liners are ideal for warm weather as they are lightweight and breathable. Wool and polyester liners provide more warmth and are better suited for cooler temperatures. You can also find liners with special treatments, such as insect repellent or moisture-wicking properties, which can enhance your comfort during your outdoor adventures.
Sleeping bag liners are an affordable and practical way to keep your sleeping bag in good condition. They are easy to pack and can be rolled up and stored in your bag until needed. Whether you're camping, hiking, or backpacking, a liner will ensure that you have a clean and comfortable sleeping space every night. Remember to always follow the care instructions for both your sleeping bag and liner to ensure they last for many adventures to come.
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How to wash your sleeping bag at home
Washing a sleeping bag is important for keeping it clean, dry, and protected during camping. It will last longer and insulate more efficiently. Here is a step-by-step guide to washing your sleeping bag at home:
Preparation
Before washing your sleeping bag, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, if your sleeping bag has any small holes or tears, sew them up by hand or with a sewing machine if you have access to one. Make sure to check all the pockets and compartments of the sleeping bag to ensure that nothing is left inside. Close all zippers, clasps, and velcro flaps. If possible, turn the sleeping bag inside out. This will ensure that no dirt or grime is left behind during the wash.
Washing
Most sleeping bags can be machine washed, but it is important to use a front-loading washing machine or a top-loading machine without an agitator. If using a front-loading machine, select a delicate wash cycle with a temperature setting of no higher than 40°C / 100°F and an extra rinse cycle. If hand washing, fill a bathtub with warm or cold water and add an appropriate soap or detergent. Gently knead the sleeping bag to force the water and soap through it, being careful not to pick up the bag during this process as the weight of the water can cause damage. Repeat this process if necessary, and then refill the tub with clean water to remove any remaining soap.
Drying
After washing, it is important to remove as much moisture from the bag as possible. Gently squeeze out the excess water and proceed to dry the bag. If using a dryer, set it to low heat as high heat can damage the fabric and fill. If drying the bag without a dryer, lay it flat on a clean surface in an area with low humidity and no direct sunlight, or hang it up. Manually break up any clumps of insulation as the bag dries.
Frequency
It is recommended to wash your sleeping bag at least once a year for moderate use and 2-3 times a year for heavy use. Washing your sleeping bag regularly will help maintain its insulating power and ensure that it stays clean and dry during your camping trips.
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How to hand wash your sleeping bag
Hand washing a sleeping bag can be very labor-intensive, so it is recommended to only wash your sleeping bag when there are obvious signs of dirt or odour. Before you begin, ensure that your bathtub is clean. Then, turn your sleeping bag inside out and place it in the tub. Add warm water until the bag is covered, and add the recommended amount of the appropriate soap.
It is important to use a specialist down cleaning product such as Grangers Down Wash, Nikwax Down Wash Direct, Storm Down Wash, or Fibertec Down Wash Eco. If these are not available, you can use soap flakes or a mild detergent. Do not use a standard detergent or fabric softener as these can damage the bag.
Once the soap and water are ready, gently knead the sleeping bag to force the water and soap through it. Do not pick up the bag during this process, as the weight of the water can tear out the baffles. After each kneading cycle, drain the bathtub and carefully roll up the bag to squeeze out the water. Refill the tub with clean water and repeat the process until there are no more suds.
When you have finished washing the bag, it is time to dry it. The drying process can take several hours, and it is important to ensure that the bag is fully dried to prevent a mildewy smell. You can speed up the process by rolling up the bag in a few towels and pressing on the roll firmly to soak up additional water. You can also put the bag in the washing machine and set it to 'Spin' to dry it out further.
When the bag is mostly dry, you can use a tumble dryer on a low heat setting to finish the job. Be sure to add a few clean tennis balls or dryer balls to the dryer, as these will help to separate the feathers and speed up the process.
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How to machine wash your sleeping bag
Machine washing your sleeping bag is a straightforward process, but it's important to take care to avoid damaging your bag. Here's how to machine wash your sleeping bag:
Preparation
Firstly, check for any small holes or tears in your sleeping bag. If you find any, sew them up by hand before washing the bag. If you don't sew them beforehand, the hole may worsen during the wash.
Before washing your sleeping bag, it's a good idea to spot clean any highly soiled areas. To do this, use a small amount of down soap or a teaspoon of vinegar for tougher stains and gently scrub with a toothbrush. Then, finish by rinsing with a sponge and warm water.
Machine Washing
When you're ready to machine wash your sleeping bag, start by turning it inside out. This will ensure that the outer surface of the bag, which is more delicate, is protected during the wash. Close all zippers, clasps, and velcro flaps to prevent snagging.
Next, place the sleeping bag in the washing machine. It's important to use a front-loading washer or a top-loading machine without an agitator, as agitators can damage your bag. If using a front-loading washer, choose a gentle or bedding cycle, as these are gentler on your bag. If using a top-loading machine, select the delicate cycle.
Now, add your detergent. Use a down-specific detergent like Nikwax Down Wash Direct, and follow the instructions on the bottle for the correct amount. You can also add a small amount of soap flakes dissolved in water if you're unsure about using detergent.
To ensure your sleeping bag gets an effective clean, you can add a few other damp items, such as towels or t-shirts. This will help balance the spin of the machine. However, make sure not to overload the machine, as your bag needs room to tumble and clean thoroughly.
Drying
Once the wash cycle is complete, check for any remaining suds and rinse again if necessary. Then, transfer the bag to the dryer. It's best to use a commercial-size dryer if possible, as these have larger capacities that allow sleeping bags to tumble properly. Set the dryer to low heat to avoid damaging the fabric, and add two to three tennis balls to help fluff and separate the filling.
Run the dryer for at least an hour, and check frequently to ensure the bag is drying evenly. If your dryer is too small and the bag stays balled up, consider air drying instead. Hang the bag on a line or rack in a low-humidity area with no direct sunlight.
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How to dry your sleeping bag
Drying your sleeping bag is a crucial step in the cleaning process, as failing to do so properly can result in mildew. There are several methods you can use to dry your sleeping bag, depending on the resources available to you.
If you have access to a tumble dryer, you can machine dry your sleeping bag on a low heat setting for at least one hour. To speed up the process and prevent clumping, you can add two to three tennis balls or thick rolled-up socks to the dryer. However, be sure to check on the bag periodically to ensure it is not getting too hot, and massage the filling between your hands to help break up any clumps. Once the bag is dry, hang it up overnight to ensure there is no remaining moisture.
If you do not have access to a dryer, you can air dry your sleeping bag. To do this, lay the bag flat on a clean surface in an area with low humidity and no direct sunlight. You can also hang the bag up to dry, but be careful not to put too much stress on the fabric. It is important to note that air drying will take longer, and you should be careful to ensure the bag is completely dry before storing it to prevent mildew.
If you are drying a down sleeping bag, you can also use a combination of the above methods. First, dry the bag partially in a dryer, then hang it and let it air dry for about 12 hours. Next, put the bag back in the dryer on "air dry" (no heat) for 30 minutes, and then hang it back up to dry. Repeat this process as necessary until the bag is completely dry.
In addition to the methods mentioned above, there are a few other tips to keep in mind when drying your sleeping bag:
- If your bag is wet, carry it carefully to avoid putting stress on the seams.
- If you are drying your bag in a dryer, avoid using a small home dryer, as the barrel may be too small and cause the nylon to melt.
- If you are air drying your bag, speed up the process by rolling it up in towels and pressing firmly to soak up additional water.
- If you are drying a synthetic bag, you can hang it outside in the sun and breeze if the climate allows.
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Frequently asked questions
You don't need to wash your sleeping bag after every trip, but it's a good idea to launder it at least once a year. If you're using your bag more frequently, you may want to wash it more often.
If you choose to wash your bag yourself, you can use a bathtub or a washing machine. If using a bathtub, make sure it is clean first, then turn the sleeping bag inside out and place it in the tub. Add warm water and the recommended amount of a specialist down wash product, such as Grangers Down Wash or Nikwax Down Wash. Gently knead the bag and repeat the process with clean water until there are no more suds. If using a washing machine, ensure it is a front-loading machine and use a gentle cycle with a specialist down wash product.
Drying a sleeping bag can take several hours. You can use a tumble dryer on a low heat setting, but be aware that the barrel may be too small for the bag to fall down to the bottom as the dryer spins, which could cause the thin nylon to melt. You can also air-dry your bag, but be sure to roll it up in towels first to soak up excess water.
Washing your sleeping bag will help to remove dirt, body oils, sweat, and grime, which can compromise the insulation and leave it smelling unpleasant. Keeping your bag clean will also help it to last longer.
Yes, you can use a sleeping bag liner to keep your bag clean. Liners can be made from cotton, silk, wool, or polyester, and they add a layer of protection between your skin and the bag. They are also easy to wash and can help to add a few extra degrees of warmth to your bag.
