Gina Johnson
The Kelty Ignite DriDown 20-Degree Sleeping Bag is a budget-friendly option for backpackers and campers. It has a 600 fill, a 30D ripstop shell, and a 60D Poly Pongee liner. The bag is designed to keep users warm in 16-degree weather. While the bag is a great option for its price, it has some drawbacks, including a narrow shoulder area and a zipper that snags easily. When it comes to washing the Kelty Ignite DriDown sleeping bag, it's important to take a gentle approach. Users should avoid using top-loading washing machines with agitators, as these can damage the bag. Instead, hand washing or using a front-loading machine with a gentle cycle is recommended.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Price | $173 |
| Zipper | 58” locking zipper with dual sliders |
| Fit | Narrow at the shoulders |
| Shell | 30D ripstop |
| Liner | 60D Poly Pongee |
| Fill | 600 fill DWR-treated DriDown |
| Warmth | Plenty warm |
| Size | 6 feet 6 inches |
| Weight | Heavier than some |
| Compressibility | Compresses to the size of 1.5-2 footballs |
| Cleaning | Spot wash with a gentle non-detergent soap and warm water |
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What You'll Learn
Spot washing the fabric
To spot wash the Kelty Ignite DriDown 20-degree sleeping bag, start by removing any food debris. Then, gently separate the fabric from the insulation and only wash the fabric, being careful not to get the insulation wet. Use warm water, not hot, and a very small amount of insulation-specific cleaner, which can be purchased from your local outdoor retailer. You can also use a gentle, non-detergent soap specific to down or synthetic insulation.
Fill your tub with warm water and add the cleaner. Then, gently lay the bag in the water and slowly work the water and cleaner into the fabric. Allow the bag to sit for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, drain the water from the tub and gently press the excess water out of the bag. Do not pick up the bag when it is wet. Refill the tub with warm water and gently work in the fresh water to rinse the bag.
Alternatively, you can use a clean toothbrush or soft brush to gently scrub the fabric with warm water and a small amount of soap.
After spot washing, drape the bag over your tent and allow it to air dry in mild sunlight. Even a few minutes in the sun can make a difference, so keep an eye on the weather and be sure to mind the wind so your bag doesn't blow away.
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Using the right soap
When it comes to washing your Kelty Ignite DriDown 20-degree sleeping bag, using the right soap is crucial. Regular detergents or fabric softeners should be avoided as they can damage the down feathers in your sleeping bag. Instead, opt for a specialist down cleaner or technical cleaner designed specifically for down products. These cleaners are formulated to effectively clean down feathers while maintaining their loft and warmth.
There are several down-specific detergents available on the market, such as the Nikwax Down Wash Direct, McNett Revivex Down Cleaner, or the Down Care Kit. These cleaners typically come in the form of liquids or washes and can be purchased online or from outdoor gear stores. Using a specialised down detergent will help ensure that your sleeping bag is thoroughly cleaned without causing any damage to the down filling.
If you're using a washing machine to clean your sleeping bag, pay close attention to the detergent drawer. If you're washing your bag at a laundromat, the detergent drawer may contain residues from previous washes. To avoid using non-down-specific detergents, clean the detergent drawer before adding your down-specific detergent. This will help prevent any accidental contamination with regular detergents that could harm your sleeping bag.
It's important to note that the use of regular detergents or fabric softeners can damage the down feathers in your sleeping bag. Down feathers are delicate, and the wrong type of soap can cause them to clump together, reducing their loft and warmth-retaining properties. Therefore, always opt for a down-specific detergent to maintain the quality and functionality of your sleeping bag.
In addition to using the right soap, it's crucial to follow the washing instructions provided by the sleeping bag manufacturer. Check the care label or the manufacturer's website for specific instructions on washing your particular sleeping bag. Some bags may have unique care requirements that should be followed to ensure the best results and maintain the longevity of your sleeping bag.
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$118.82 $149.95
Drying the bag
To dry the bag, drape it over your tent and let it air dry in mild sunlight. Even a few minutes in the sun can make a difference, so keep an eye on the weather and the bag so that it doesn't blow away.
If you are drying the bag indoors, ensure good ventilation in the room. You can also use a fan to speed up the drying process. It is important to ensure the bag is completely dry before storing it away.
After every backpacking or camping adventure, it is a good idea to lay out your sleeping bag and allow it to air out. This will help to keep it fresh and reduce the need for frequent washing.
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Avoiding top-loading washing machines
While it is possible to wash a sleeping bag in a top-loading washing machine, it is generally recommended to avoid doing so. This is because top-loading machines typically have an agitator, which is a built-in component that moves the clothes, water, and soap around during the wash cycle. The agitator is designed to support the weight of the washing machine's drum and its associated parts, such as the motor. However, the agitator's sturdy construction and vigorous motion can be too strong for the delicate material of a sleeping bag. The agitator can brush against, twist, and tear the sleeping bag, causing damage to its stitching and insulation.
To avoid potential damage to your sleeping bag, it is advisable to remove the agitator from your top-loading washing machine before washing it. Alternatively, using a front-loading washing machine is considered the safest option, as they typically do not have agitators.
If you do not have access to a front-loading machine or a top-loader without an agitator, there are other methods for cleaning your sleeping bag. One option is to hand wash the bag in a bathtub or a large, clean cooler. While this method can be time-consuming and physically demanding, it is possible to drain the water without lifting the heavy, wet bag, reducing the risk of damage during the process.
Another option is to spot clean any stains or dirty areas on your sleeping bag, rather than washing the entire bag. This can be done with a mild detergent and a damp cloth, gently rubbing the affected areas until the stains are removed.
Additionally, it is important to follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer of your sleeping bag. These instructions will include specific guidelines on how to wash and dry your sleeping bag to ensure its longevity.
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Airing out the bag
After every camping or backpacking trip, it is recommended to air out your Kelty Ignite DriDown sleeping bag. This can be done by laying the bag out and letting it air dry in mild sunlight. Even a few minutes in the sun can make a difference, so keep an eye on the weather and wind to prevent your bag from blowing away.
If you need to dry your bag after washing it, you can hang it up using the 'security loops' that the bag comes with. These loops are also useful for hanging up the bag when you need to air it out.
When drying or airing out your bag, you may want to preserve heat. Zippers are a major source of escaping heat, so be mindful of this when using the dual-sliders on the bag's 58" locking zipper.
If you are airing out your bag after a trip, you may want to spot wash any areas that are soiled. To do this, use a gentle, non-detergent soap and a soft brush to gently scrub the fabric. Try to avoid getting the insulation wet.
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Frequently asked questions
Handwashing is the best way to wash your sleeping bag. Use warm water, a gentle non-detergent soap, and a soft brush to gently scrub the fabric. Avoid getting the insulation wet and be careful not to pick up the bag when it is wet.
Yes, but only if it is a full-size or commercial washing machine without an agitator. Wash on a gentle cycle with a cleaner designed for down or synthetic insulation.
Use a small amount of insulation-specific cleaner and a soft brush to gently scrub the fabric. Avoid getting the insulation wet and be careful not to pick up the bag when it is wet.
