Herbie Murray
Sea to Summit sleeping bags require special care when washing. The process varies depending on the type of sleeping bag, but in general, it is recommended to avoid top-loading washing machines as they can damage the insulating fibers and cause down shifting. Synthetic bags should be washed with a product like Grangers Down Performance Wash, while down bags require a mild soap that won't leave residue, such as down soap. Sleeping bag liners can be machine washed in cold to warm water and air-dried, but fabric softeners should be avoided as they compromise the wicking ability of the liner.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Washing frequency | It is recommended to wash your sleeping bag less often if you use a sleeping bag liner |
| Cleaning products | Use a product specifically formulated for down, such as Grangers Down Wash, or a performance wash product for synthetics. Do not use conventional laundry detergents or 'active wash' products. |
| Washing machine type | Avoid top-loading washing machines as these can damage the ultralight fabrics and baffle seams of a sleeping bag. Use a front-loading washing machine on a gentle cycle or hand-wash your sleeping bag. |
| Drying | Use a cool cycle and avoid fabric softeners. |
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What You'll Learn
Use a front-loading washing machine on a gentle cycle
If you own a Sea to Summit sleeping bag, you'll be pleased to know that some models come with care instructions printed right on the storage cell. However, if you don't have access to these instructions, here's what to do:
Before you begin, check if your sleeping bag has down or synthetic filling. This is because the process for washing these two types of sleeping bags differs slightly. For synthetic bags, use a cleaning product such as Grangers Down Performance Wash. Avoid laundry detergents, as the brighteners and fillers may stick to the polyester fibres and reduce the loft. For down sleeping bags, use a down soap, which is very mild and will rinse out without leaving residue. Do not use conventional laundry detergents or even 'active wash' products because of the harsh detergents, fillers and brighteners they contain.
Next, remove the straps from the underside of the quilt/bag. Then, load your sleeping bag into a front-loading washing machine. Make sure the machine is set to a gentle cycle. If your front-loading washing machine does not have a delicate cycle suitable for washing woollen garments, do not attempt to wash a down sleeping bag in it. In this case, it is better to be safe and hand wash the bag. A synthetic bag can be washed on a normal 'gentle' cycle without issues.
Finally, when it comes to drying your sleeping bag, only use very low heat or a cool cycle. Sleeping bag shell fabrics are delicate—they need to be as light as possible to allow the insulation inside to expand fully. If you are using a laundromat dryer, set the temperature to 'cool'. At home, set the temperature on low.
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Hand-wash your sleeping bag
Hand-washing your Sea to Summit sleeping bag is a safe option to ensure that the bag is not damaged during the washing process. Firstly, check if your sleeping bag has down or synthetic filling, as the process varies slightly. For synthetic bags, use a product such as Grangers Down Performance Wash. Avoid laundry detergents, as the brighteners and fillers may stick to the polyester fibres and reduce loft. For down sleeping bags, use a down soap, which is very mild and will not leave residue. Do not use conventional laundry detergents or 'active wash' products.
If you are hand-washing your sleeping bag, fill a bathtub with water and add the recommended amount of soap. Place the sleeping bag in the water and use your hands to gently agitate the water and soap, ensuring the soap is evenly distributed throughout the bag. Pay particular attention to areas that may be stained or especially dirty, such as the feet and head areas.
Once you have finished cleaning the sleeping bag, drain the soapy water and refill the bathtub with clean water to rinse the bag. Repeat this process until all the soap has been rinsed away. It is important to ensure that no soap remains in the bag, as this can affect the bag's performance. After rinsing, gently squeeze the sleeping bag to remove excess water, taking care not to wring or twist the bag, as this can damage the fabric and insulating fibres.
Finally, air-dry the sleeping bag. Set up the bag somewhere with good airflow, and ensure it is fully dried before packing it away. You can also use a laundromat dryer on a cool setting, but these can be unreliable, so air-drying is preferable.
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Avoid fabric softeners
When washing a Sea to Summit sleeping bag, it is important to avoid fabric softeners. This is because fabric softeners can compromise the wicking ability of the liner.
Fabric softeners are designed to reduce friction between fibres, which helps fabrics feel softer and smoother. However, when it comes to sleeping bags, the use of fabric softeners can have negative effects. Firstly, fabric softeners can reduce the absorbency and breathability of the fabric, which is essential for maintaining comfort while sleeping. Additionally, fabric softeners often contain chemicals that can weaken the fabric over time, potentially leading to reduced durability and longevity of the sleeping bag.
Another reason to avoid fabric softeners is the potential impact on the insulation and loft of the sleeping bag. Fabric softeners can coat the fibres and interfere with the natural structure of the fabric, which can affect the insulating properties of the bag. This is especially important for down sleeping bags, as the fill needs to be able to loft and create small air spaces within the insulation. These air spaces are crucial for trapping body heat and keeping the user warm during sleep. By avoiding fabric softeners, you ensure that the insulating properties of your sleeping bag remain intact.
Furthermore, fabric softeners can also be harmful to the environment. They often contain chemicals that can be toxic to aquatic life and contribute to water pollution. When washing sleeping bags, it is important to consider eco-friendly alternatives, such as using natural laundry detergents or simply air-drying the bag without the use of any softeners.
Overall, avoiding fabric softeners when washing a Sea to Summit sleeping bag is crucial to maintain the performance, durability, and environmental friendliness of the product. By following the manufacturer's care instructions and opting for gentle washing methods, you can ensure that your sleeping bag remains in optimal condition for your outdoor adventures.
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Use a sleeping bag liner
Sleeping bag liners are a great option for backpackers and travellers. They are a lightweight insert that can be added to your sleeping bag, similar to how a sheet is added to a comforter. Liners are available in a variety of materials, including silk, synthetic, fleece, and cotton. Silk liners are lightweight, while synthetics are moisture-wicking and breathable, making them ideal for humid conditions. Insulated liners, such as those made with Thermolite®, can add up to 25°F of warmth, making them perfect for extending the range of a lightweight bag.
Sea to Summit offers a range of sleeping bag liners, including the Thermolite Reactor Fleece Liner, which is highly recommended for travel and hostel stays. Their liners are machine washable in cold to warm water, and no special soaps are required. If you have a top-loader washing machine, it is recommended to put the liner in a bag to prevent the drawcord from snagging. Fabric softeners should be avoided, as they will compromise the wicking ability of the liner. Air drying is preferable for all Sea to Summit liners, as dryer heat can potentially damage the fabric, especially silk.
Sleeping bag liners offer several benefits. Firstly, they can add extra warmth to your sleeping bag, making them ideal for cold weather camping or for those who feel the cold easily. Secondly, they help keep your sleeping bag clean, reducing the need for frequent washing of the bag itself. This is especially useful when travelling in hostels or sleeping in unfamiliar beds, providing a clean and comfortable barrier. Liners are also useful for temperature regulation, allowing you to unzip your bag without exposing yourself to drafts.
If you are crafty, you can even make your own sleeping bag liner. All you need is about 2 yards of lightweight fabric, such as silk or polyester, strong thread, sharp scissors, pins, and a sewing machine (although hand sewing is also an option). Cut the fabric to your desired height and width, and then sew up the sides and foot box securely. This is a cost-effective way to create a custom liner that suits your needs.
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Drying a down sleeping bag vs synthetic
Drying a down sleeping bag takes significantly longer than drying a synthetic sleeping bag. While a synthetic bag will take at least an hour to dry, a down bag will take several hours to dry thoroughly.
Synthetic sleeping bags insulate even when damp, whereas a wet down bag won't keep you warm. Therefore, it is important to keep your down sleeping bag dry when camping.
If you choose to wash and dry your bag yourself, it is recommended to use a commercial-size dryer, as they have larger capacities that allow fully lofted sleeping bags to tumble. If you don't have access to a laundromat, you can use a home dryer, but be sure to set the dryer on low heat, as high heat can melt delicate nylon fabrics. It is better to dry on low heat for a longer time than to use high heat to speed up the drying process.
For down sleeping bags, add two to three tennis balls to help agitate the fill back to its original loft. The balls help break up clumps of down to speed the drying process. For synthetic bags, tennis balls are helpful but optional.
Other drying methods include air-drying your bag by laying it flat on a clean surface in an area with low humidity and no direct sunlight, or hanging it up to dry. Be careful to distribute the weight so that you don't put too much stress on the nylon fabric.
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