Colin Snow
The Magellan Outdoors Rectangle Sleeping Bag is a durable and comfortable option for kids, with its rugged polyester taffeta shell and soft polyester lining. To keep it in good condition, it's important to know how to wash it properly. While it's not necessary to wash your sleeping bag after every use, it's a good idea to do so at least once a year, especially before storing it away for an extended period. Here are some tips on how to wash a Magellan sleeping bag for kids.
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What You'll Learn
How to hand wash the Magellan sleeping bag
To hand wash the Magellan sleeping bag, you will need a bathtub, cool or lukewarm water, and a mild soap or detergent. Zip up all zippers, attach all Velcro, and turn the bag inside out. Spread the sleeping bag out on the bottom of the tub and fill the tub about halfway with water. Add the soap, following the directions on the label, but use a small amount to avoid excess soap that will be hard to rinse out.
Use your hands to agitate the bag in the water, gently scrubbing the head and foot sections before washing the entire bag. If your machine has a rinse setting, use it to thoroughly remove the soap. If not, fill the tub with clean water and repeat the process without soap to ensure all the soap is removed.
Once washed, support the entire bag (not just one end) when removing it from the tub. Gently squeeze out the excess water and proceed to dry the bag. The drying process can take up to three hours, and you may want to hang the bag up overnight to ensure it is completely dry. To dry, lay the bag flat on a clean surface in an area with low humidity and no direct sunlight, or hang it up, being careful to distribute the weight evenly to avoid putting too much stress on the fabric.
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How to use a washing machine to wash the Magellan sleeping bag
To wash a Magellan sleeping bag in a washing machine, follow these steps:
Firstly, it is important to note that you should not wash your sleeping bag after every trip. It is recommended to wash it at least once a year, ideally before storing it away at the end of the season. Body oils and other residues will stay on the fabric if the bag is stored without a wash, so it is a good idea to clean it before extended storage.
Now, onto the steps for washing your Magellan sleeping bag in a washing machine:
- Check the care instructions: Before you begin, consult the bag maker's instructions, which can usually be found on a label or online.
- Prepare the sleeping bag: Zip up all zippers, attach any Velcro, and turn the bag inside out. It is recommended to wear clean clothes and use a bag liner to keep your sleeping bag cleaner for longer.
- Choose the right washing machine: Use a front-loading commercial washer at a laundromat. 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 machines with agitators: Do not use a top-loading washer with an agitator column as your bag may become entangled and the agitator can strain or rip the seams of your sleeping bag. If you have a top-loader without an agitator, this should be fine to use.
- Select the appropriate detergent: For a Magellan sleeping bag, use a mild powder detergent. Nikwax's Down Wash Direct is recommended for down-filled bags, while their Tech Wash is suitable for synthetic fills.
- Wash settings: Set the washer to warm or cold water on a gentle or delicate cycle. Do not use hot water as it can damage the fabric.
- Amount of detergent: Use the minimum amount of cleaning agent and scrub the head and foot sections before washing the entire bag.
- Rinse cycles: Run the rinse cycle at least twice to ensure all the soap is rinsed out. If your machine doesn't have this option, run the bag through the regular cycle again without adding any soap.
- Drying: Once the washing cycle is complete, carefully remove the bag from the machine and transfer it to the dryer. Set the heat to "air-fluff" or "air-dry". If your bag is down-filled, dry it on medium heat, and if it is synthetic, use low heat. Drying will take at least an hour but may take longer, so ensure the bag is completely dry before storing it.
By following these steps, you can effectively wash your Magellan sleeping bag in a washing machine, keeping it clean and comfortable for your next adventure.
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How to dry the Magellan sleeping bag
Drying your Magellan sleeping bag is a crucial step in ensuring it stays clean and protected. Here are some detailed instructions on how to dry your sleeping bag effectively:
Use a Dryer
If you have access to a dryer, either at home or at a laundromat, this is a convenient option. Set the dryer to low heat and a gentle cycle. For a Magellan sleeping bag with down insulation, dry on medium heat. High heat can damage the delicate nylon fabric, so it's important to be cautious. Commercial dryers with larger capacities are ideal as they allow the bag to tumble freely. If using a dryer, it is recommended to add a few clean tennis balls or wool dryer balls. These help break up any clumps in the insulation, restoring its loft and making your sleeping bag puffy again.
Air Drying
If you prefer to air dry your sleeping bag, find a cool, dry place with low humidity and no direct sunlight. Lay the bag flat on a clean surface, such as a large towel or a table, and let it air dry completely. You can also hang the bag to dry, but be careful to distribute the weight evenly to avoid putting too much stress on the fabric. It is crucial to ensure the bag is completely dry before storing it.
Spot Drying
If only a small area of your sleeping bag needs drying, such as after a minor spill, you can try spot drying. Use a damp cloth to wipe away any stains or moisture. Focus on the affected area, gently cleaning without getting the insulation wet.
Drying in the Sun
While it is generally not recommended to leave your sleeping bag in direct sunlight for extended periods, you can utilise the sun's warmth to aid in drying. Turn the bag inside out and lay it in partial sun for a short time, keeping an eye on it to avoid excessive sun exposure. The sun's rays can help eliminate odours and speed up the drying process, but be mindful of the wind so your bag doesn't blow away.
Remember, it is important to always consult the care instructions provided by the manufacturer of your Magellan sleeping bag, as they may have specific recommendations for drying their product.
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How to keep the Magellan sleeping bag clean while camping
Before Camping
Before you set off on your camping trip, it's a good idea to check the care instructions for your Magellan sleeping bag. You can usually find these on a label or online. Knowing the dos and don'ts of cleaning your bag will help you keep it in good condition.
During Camping
When you're camping, there are several things you can do to keep your sleeping bag clean:
- Keep it off the ground: If you're sleeping under the stars, put a pad on the ground first to protect your bag from dirt and sharp objects.
- Be gentle: Avoid jumping around or standing inside your bag, as this can damage the toe box.
- Use a liner: Consider using a sleeping bag liner made of cotton, silk, wool, or polyester. Liners act as a barrier between you and the bag, keeping it clean. They're lightweight and can add extra warmth.
- Change into clean clothes: Before getting into your bag, change into clean clothes to avoid transferring body oils, sweat, and dirt. If it's warm, wear at least a clean t-shirt and underwear.
- Keep your hair and skin clean: Use a clean bandana or knit cap to keep oily hair off the bag's hood. Also, wipe off any sunscreen, insect repellent, or makeup from your face and neck before bed.
- Avoid cooking odors: Change out of clothes you've cooked in, especially if you're camping in an area with wildlife. Cooking odors can linger on your bag and attract unwanted attention.
After Camping
Once you're back from your trip, there are a few important steps to take to ensure your bag stays clean and fresh:
- Air it out: Unzip the bag and let it air dry completely before storing it. This will help prevent the buildup of moisture, which can lead to mildew.
- Store it loosely: Avoid compressing your bag in its stuff sack or a watertight storage bag. Instead, store it loosely in a large cotton or mesh sack, a large pillowcase, or a bag you sew yourself.
- Spot clean: If your bag has small stains or dirt spots, try spot cleaning with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a mild detergent. Rinse with a wet sponge, being careful not to get the inner fill wet.
- Wash if necessary: If your bag is heavily soiled, consider washing it. You can hand wash it in a bathtub or use a front-loading washing machine without an agitator. Mild detergents designed for down or synthetic fills are recommended.
- Dry thoroughly: Whether you spot clean or wash your bag, ensure it is completely dry before storing it. Air drying or using a dryer on low heat are both options. For down bags, adding tennis balls can help speed up the drying process and restore loft.
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How to store the Magellan sleeping bag
To keep your Magellan sleeping bag in good condition, it's important to store it properly when it's not being used. Here are some detailed instructions on how to store your Magellan sleeping bag:
Firstly, it's a good idea to clean your sleeping bag before storing it, especially if it has been used frequently or was last used some time ago. Body oils, dirt, and residues can build up on the fabric and fibres over time, compromising the bag's loft and warmth. Wash your bag using a mild powder detergent, such as Nikwax Down Wash Direct for down-filled bags or Nikwax Tech Wash for synthetic fills. You can hand wash the bag in a bathtub or use a front-loading washing machine without a central agitator. Top-loading machines with agitators should be avoided as they can damage the bag. If you're handwashing, fill the tub with lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild soap, following the instructions on your chosen product. Use your hands to gently agitate the bag in the water, ensuring that you don't use too much soap, as it will be hard to rinse out.
After washing, ensure that your sleeping bag is completely dry before storing it. You can use a dryer on a low heat setting or air-dry it. If using a dryer, add a few tennis balls to help speed up the drying process by breaking up clumps of down. Air drying can be done by laying the bag flat on a clean surface in an area with low humidity and no direct sunlight, or by hanging it up overnight to ensure complete dryness.
Once your bag is clean and dry, it's now ready for storage. Do not store your bag compressed in its stuff sack, as this will damage the fill over time. Instead, store it loosely in a large cotton or mesh storage sack, a large pillowcase, or a cotton bag that you can sew yourself. Watertight storage bags are not recommended, as condensation can build up inside, leading to mildew issues. If you plan to store your bag for an extended period, consider a cool, dry place that is away from direct sunlight and moisture.
Additionally, there are some general care tips you can follow to keep your Magellan sleeping bag in good condition. Always protect your bag from the ground when camping by using a pad to prevent damage from sticks and other sharp objects. Be gentle with your bag and avoid jumping or standing in it. If you're sitting by a campfire, consider using an older synthetic bag to avoid sparks burning holes in your Magellan bag. Finally, encourage good habits when lending your bag to others by setting rules, showing them how the zippers and cords work, and recommending the use of a liner.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to wash your sleeping bag at least once a year, but if it is used more frequently, it should be washed more often.
It is recommended to wash the sleeping bag in a front-loading machine with cold water on a gentle or delicate setting. Make sure to zip up all zippers and attach all Velcro before washing.
Use a mild powder detergent, such as Nikwax's Down Wash Direct for down-filled bags, and Nikwax's Tech Wash for synthetic fills. Avoid using liquid soap or detergent, or a very strong soap or detergent.
It is recommended to dry the sleeping bag in a large, front-loading commercial dryer. Set the dryer on low heat for synthetic bags and medium heat for down bags. The drying process may take several hours and multiple cycles.
Yes, it is recommended to use a sleeping bag liner to keep the bag clean. Liners can be made of cotton, silk, wool, or polyester and act as a barrier between the child's skin and the bag. It is also important to air out the bag and make sure it is completely dry before storing it in a large cotton or mesh storage sack.
