Miya Pearson
Sleeping bags are valuable pieces of equipment for camping, and proper maintenance can ensure they remain in good condition. While it is recommended to wash sleeping bags rarely, it is important to do so occasionally to remove dirt buildup and body oils, which can compromise the bag's loft and warmth. There are several methods for washing a sleeping bag, including hand washing and machine washing, and it is important to consider the type of sleeping bag and the degree of soiling when choosing a cleaning method.
How to Wash Sleeping Bags
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How often to wash | Once a year or after every trip, depending on usage |
| When to wash | Before storing for an extended period of time |
| How to prevent dirt | Use a bag liner, sleep in clean clothes, and air out the bag |
| Washing methods | Hand washing, machine washing, or professional cleaning services |
| Soap/Detergent | Use a gentle, non-detergent soap or a mild, non-liquid detergent |
| Water temperature | Warm water (not hot) |
| Drying | Air drying, tumble drying on low heat, or drying with tennis balls |
| Storage | Loose storage in a cotton or mesh sack, pillowcase, or homemade cotton bag |
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What You'll Learn
How to wash a sleeping bag by hand
Handwashing a sleeping bag is a good option if you don't have access to a washing machine or if your bag is made of down. It can be a very labor-intensive process, but it will ensure your bag is cleaned properly and doesn't get damaged.
First, inspect your bag for any holes, tears, or other damage, and repair them if necessary. Then, turn the bag inside out and zip it closed. This will ensure that any debris that was carried into the bag gets cleaned out. Fill your bathtub with enough lukewarm or warm water to fully submerge the bag. Avoid using hot water, as this can remove the natural oils from the feathers in down sleeping bags, reducing their insulation properties.
Add a mild, non-liquid detergent to the water. Avoid using bleach or fabric softener, as these can damage the bag. You can use a specialty sleeping bag detergent, such as Nikwax's Tech-Wash or Nexiwax wash, or a regular mild detergent. Immerse the sleeping bag in the water and gently massage the detergent into the fabric. Pay special attention to heavily soiled areas, rubbing them together to help work in the soap. Let the bag soak for 10 to 60 minutes, depending on how soiled it is.
After soaking, thoroughly rinse the bag with cold water. Drain the soapy water from the tub and refill it with clean water. Gently work the soap out of the bag, letting it sit in the clean water for about 15 minutes. Drain the water again and press out any remaining water from the bag. Repeat the rinsing process until all the soap is removed.
Finally, gently squeeze out as much water as you can from the bag. Then, work your hands underneath and gather it up in a ball in your arms to carry it to a dryer. If you don't have access to a dryer, you can lay the bag flat on a clean surface in an area with low humidity and no direct sunlight, or hang it up to air-dry.
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How to wash a sleeping bag in a machine
To wash a sleeping bag in a machine, you will need access to a front-loading washer (or a top-loading machine without an agitator). If your home machine is small, you may need to use a commercial-size washer at a laundromat.
Before washing, check the sleeping bag for stains or damage. If there are stains, use a stain treatment product and a laundry brush to work the solution into the fabric. Allow it to sit for at least 15 minutes before washing. If there are rips or tears, sew them up before washing the bag.
When you're ready to wash, zip up the bag and select a gentle cycle with a temperature setting of warm or cold water. Avoid using hot water, as this can damage the fabric. Use the appropriate soap for your bag's fill type, such as a specialty detergent like Nikwax Down Wash for down fillings or Grangers Down Performance Wash for synthetic bags. Avoid using too much detergent, and consider adding damp towels or t-shirts to the machine to balance the spin.
After washing, rinse the sleeping bag at least twice to ensure all soap residue is gone. You may need to run it through an additional wash-and-rinse cycle without soap to ensure it is thoroughly rinsed.
When drying, set the dryer on low heat to avoid damaging the fabric. For down sleeping bags, add two to three tennis balls to help redistribute the filling. For synthetic bags, tennis balls are optional. Run the dryer for at least an hour, and ensure the sleeping bag is completely dry before storing it to prevent mildew growth.
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How often to wash a sleeping bag
It is recommended that you wash your sleeping bag sparingly, as washing it too often can damage its performance. Sleeping bags can lose insulation each time they are washed, and incorrect washing or the use of the wrong detergent can impact the bag's quality and lofting performance.
A good rule of thumb is to wash a consistently used sleeping bag once a year, at the end of the camping season. However, some sources suggest washing it every two to three years is sufficient. If your sleeping bag has a removable liner, you can wash the liner after every use, and the bag itself after every 10 uses.
To prolong the time between washes, you can keep your sleeping bag clean by sleeping in clean clothes and using a sleeping bag liner. Liners can be made of cotton, silk, wool, or polyester and act as a barrier between your skin and the bag. This will prevent body oils, sweat, and dirt from building up in the bag. You can also wipe down your sleeping bag with a clean cloth and warm, soapy water after every 10 uses and air it out to get rid of unpleasant odors.
When your sleeping bag is due for a wash, make sure to follow the care instructions on the sewn-in care label, which can usually be found in a pocket or along the seams.
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How to dry a sleeping bag
Drying a sleeping bag is a crucial step in the cleaning process, as mildew can develop if the bag is not thoroughly dried. There are several methods for drying a sleeping bag, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
One option is to use a dryer. It is recommended to use a commercial-size dryer if possible, as the larger capacity allows fully lofted sleeping bags to tumble. If using a dryer, it is important to set it to low heat, as high heat can melt delicate nylon fabrics. For down sleeping bags, adding two to three tennis balls can help agitate the fill back to its original loft and speed up the drying process. Synthetic bags do not require tennis balls, but they can be helpful in breaking up clumps. It is recommended to run as many cycles as needed to completely dry the bag, which may take several hours.
Another option for drying a sleeping bag is to air dry it. This method can take longer, but it is a safe alternative if you do not have access to a dryer. To air dry a sleeping bag, lay it flat on a clean surface in an area with low humidity and no direct sunlight. You can also hang it up to dry, but be careful to distribute the weight evenly to avoid putting too much stress on the nylon fabric. It is recommended to let the bag air dry overnight to ensure it is completely dry before storing it.
If you are drying a down sleeping bag, there are a few additional considerations. Down bags can take several hours to dry thoroughly, so it is important to be patient. It is recommended to periodically check the bag to ensure it is not getting too hot and to massage the filling between your hands to break up any clumps.
Overall, the key to successfully drying a sleeping bag is to take your time and ensure that the bag is completely dry before storing it. By choosing the appropriate drying method and following the recommended steps, you can help ensure that your sleeping bag is clean, dry, and ready for your next adventure.
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How to keep a sleeping bag clean without washing it
Keeping your sleeping bag off the ground is a good way to keep it clean. If you're sleeping outside, put a pad down first. If you're sitting by a campfire, consider using an older synthetic bag to protect your sleeping bag from sparks.
It's also a good idea to use a sleeping bag liner. Liners are lightweight and act as a barrier between your skin and the bag, keeping it clean. Liners can be made of cotton, silk, wool, or polyester. They can add extra warmth and can be washed more easily than a sleeping bag.
You should also sleep in clean clothes. Body oils, sweat, and dirt can reduce your sleeping bag's insulating power. Change into clean underwear and socks before getting into your sleeping bag. If it's warm, wear a clean T-shirt and underwear. A knit cap or clean bandana will keep oily hair off the bag's hood. If you've been cooking, change your clothes before getting into your sleeping bag, especially if you're in bear country.
When you get home, unzip the bag and air it out to make sure it's completely dry. Then, store it loosely in a large cotton or mesh storage sack. You can also use a large pillowcase or sew your own cotton bag. Don't store your bag in its stuff sack, as this will damage the fill over time. Watertight storage bags are also a bad idea, as condensation can build up inside and cause mildew.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to wash your sleeping bag once a year, at a minimum. If you're using your bag more frequently, you may want to wash it more often. Ideally, wash your bag before storing it at the end of the season or for an extended period to prevent body oils and other residues from settling in.
Hand washing is considered better for sleeping bags, especially those made of natural down. You will need a bathtub, your sleeping bag, and a specialised sleeping bag detergent or a mild, non-liquid, bleach-free detergent. If you prefer to use a washing machine, a front-loading machine without an agitator is best to avoid damaging the bag.
Air drying is the best method for both down and synthetic sleeping bags. Lay the bag flat on a clean surface in an area with low humidity and no direct sunlight, or hang it up to dry, being careful not to put too much stress on the fabric. This process can take up to 20 hours. If you use a dryer, ensure it is on a low heat setting and add tennis balls to help speed up the process and break up clumps of down.
To keep your sleeping bag clean for longer, always sleep in clean clothes and consider using a sleeping bag liner. Liners can be made from cotton, silk, wool, or polyester and act as a barrier to absorb perspiration and dirt. They are also lightweight and provide added insulation.
