Colin Snow
Sleeping bags are essential for camping trips, but they can be bulky and take up a lot of storage space. So, what should you do with your old sleeping bags when you upgrade to a new one? In this discussion, we will explore various options for reusing, repurposing, and donating old sleeping bags, as well as the importance of proper storage and maintenance to prolong the lifespan of your camping gear. We will also address the question of whether sleeping bags expire and provide tips on how to revitalise them to maintain their warmth and comfort.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Storage | Store in a roomy closet, avoiding damp basements, unheated spaces, garages, attics, and car trunks. |
| Washing | Wash periodically (every few years or once a season if used frequently) to remove body oils, sweat, and dirt. |
| Drying | Dry on a low heat setting, checking frequently. Hang in a covered outdoor space for 6-8 hours, avoiding direct sunlight. |
| Lifespan | May last several years with proper care. Down bags may lose fluffiness and insulation power over time. Synthetic bags may also lose lofting ability if left compressed. |
| Recycling | Can be donated to homeless shelters, converted into quilts, or used as camping blankets or dog beds. |
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What You'll Learn
Revitalising old sleeping bags
There are many ways to revitalise an old sleeping bag and give it a new lease of life. Firstly, it is important to keep your sleeping bag clean and dry. This will help it last longer and insulate more efficiently. Using a sleeping bag liner can help with this, as it acts as a barrier between your skin and the bag, keeping the bag clean. Liners are also fairly lightweight and can add 5 to 15 degrees Fahrenheit to your bag's temperature rating.
If your bag is dirty, it is important to give it a good wash. You can hand wash it in a bathtub, send it to a professional cleaning service, or use a commercial-size washer and dryer at a laundromat. If you are using a machine, it is recommended to use a front-loading washer, as top-loading washers with agitator columns can damage your bag. For down bags, use a gear wash specifically formulated for down, such as Nikwax Down Wash Direct. When drying your bag, always use a low heat setting and check it frequently to avoid damage. If you are tumble drying, keep the setting warm but not hot, as high heat can kill the bag.
If your bag has lost its fluffiness (loft), there are ways to try and restore it. Insulation loft is key to keeping you warm, as the air spaces within the insulation trap body heat. You can try tumble drying your bag with tennis balls, as these gently beat the insulation to help fluff it up. However, this method is not recommended for modern synthetic insulation, as it can cause more damage and loft degradation. Instead, for synthetic bags, you can try drying your bag without heat to see if the loft recovers.
If your old sleeping bag is beyond repair, there are still ways to recycle it. You could cut it in half and sew up the new edges to make a sleeping bag for your dog. You could also use it as a camping blanket, or donate it to a homeless shelter or a local Boy Scout troop.
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Donating old sleeping bags
If you are unsure about where to donate, you can always reach out to local organisations or charities that work with the homeless or with refugees. They may be able to accept your donation directly or point you in the right direction.
Some people also choose to donate their old sleeping bags to animal shelters. These shelters can use them to line crates for cats and puppies or to make sleeping nests for dogs.
If your sleeping bag is in good condition, you might also consider selling it or giving it to a friend or family member who might need it.
There are many ways to give old sleeping bags a new lease of life. For example, you could cut and sew your sleeping bag to make it into a smaller bag for your dog or even a quilt for yourself.
Overall, donating old sleeping bags is a thoughtful way to help those in need and ensure that usable items do not go to waste.
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Converting old sleeping bags to quilts
There are several ways to repurpose old sleeping bags instead of discarding them. One popular method is to convert them into quilts. This process involves cutting and sewing the sleeping bag to create a quilt that can be used as a blanket or a foot quilt.
Firstly, prepare your workspace by closing doors and windows to prevent the down fibres from spreading. Wear a dust mask to protect yourself from inhaling the fibres. Vigorously shake the sleeping bag to move all the down to one side, away from the zipper.
Next, mark the fabric where you will be cutting and sewing. Use needles to join the fabric layers along the marked line, and then cut along this line, removing the excess material. You can choose to discard or seal the cut-away portion. Sew the seams neatly and consider using an edge band to fold over the seam for a cleaner finish.
Finally, you can customize your quilt further. Some people choose to remove the hood and zipper to create an open quilt, while others retain the draft collar for added warmth and shape. You may also add attachments to secure the quilt to a sleeping pad, preventing heat loss if you turn over in your sleep.
Converting old sleeping bags into quilts is a fun project that gives new life to your gear. It is a cost-effective way to obtain a lightweight quilt, although it may be time-consuming to learn how to use a sewing machine and perform the conversion.
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Storing sleeping bags
Storing your sleeping bag correctly is essential to maintaining its quality and ensuring a comfortable night's sleep. Insulation loft is key to keeping you warm. Both down and synthetic fills need to fluff up (loft) to create small air pockets within the insulation. These then trap body heat to help you stay warm while you sleep.
If you leave your bag compressed inside its stuff sack for several months, it will lose its loft and ability to fluff up. Therefore, it is recommended to store your sleeping bag in an oversized stuff sack or a jumbo cotton storage bag that most bags are sold with today. This keeps the bag contained without compressing the fill, allowing air circulation and preventing dirt and dust from building up. If your bag didn't come with a large storage bag, you can use a king-size pillowcase or a cotton or mesh sack (90L is a good size) to store it loosely.
If possible, it is best to store your sleeping bag in a cool, dry place, fully unrolled under your bed. Alternatively, hang it from a hook in a cool, dry room or cupboard, or use a sleeping bag hanger to hang it in your closet. Avoid storing it in damp basements, unheated spaces like garages and attics, or car trunks as moisture and temperature extremes are hard on the bag.
Before storing your sleeping bag, it is important to give it a thorough cleaning. Body oils, sweat, and dirt in the insulation can compromise performance. Even if you don't have a mould or mildew problem, it is recommended to wash your bag periodically, especially if you're an avid backpacker. Always dry your sleeping bag on a low heat setting and check it frequently to avoid damage from heat or twisting.
If you don't plan on using your old sleeping bag anymore, consider donating it to a homeless shelter or a local Boy Scout troop, or giving it to a friend or a homeless person. You can also get creative and recycle the bag by converting it into a quilt, pillows, or other remnants.
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Signs your sleeping bag needs replacing
Sleeping bags are essential for a good night's rest during backcountry excursions. However, even with proper care, they don't last forever. Here are some signs that indicate it's time to replace your sleeping bag:
Loss of Loft
Insulation loft is critical to keeping you warm during your sleep. Both down and synthetic fills need to fluff up (loft) to create tiny air pockets that trap your body heat. Over time, sleeping bags can lose their ability to loft properly, compromising their heat retention. This issue is more prevalent in synthetic bags, but both types of fills will eventually be affected if left in a compressed state for extended periods.
Frayed Fabric and Malfunctioning Zippers
If you notice the fabric of your sleeping bag starting to fray or the zippers becoming troublesome, it's time to consider a replacement. Frayed fabric indicates that the integrity of the sleeping bag has been compromised, and it may no longer provide adequate protection from the elements. Malfunctioning zippers can also be a safety hazard and hinder your ability to adjust ventilation during your outdoor adventures.
Persistent Odors and Stains
Body oils, sweat, and dirt can accumulate in the insulation of your sleeping bag, leading to unpleasant odors and stains. While periodic washing is recommended to address this issue, there may come a point where stubborn stains and odors persist even after cleaning. This is a sign that the bag's performance and hygiene are compromised, necessitating a replacement.
Inadequate Warmth
If you find yourself consistently feeling cold while using your sleeping bag, it may no longer be providing sufficient insulation. This could be due to a loss of loft, damage to the fabric, or a decrease in its effectiveness over time. In such cases, upgrading to a newer model with improved insulation and water-resistant technology might be worthwhile.
It's important to note that proper storage and care can extend the lifespan of your sleeping bag. Always allow your bag to dry out between trips to prevent mold and mildew growth. Additionally, avoid storing your bag in a compressed state for prolonged periods, as it can lead to a loss of loft and heat retention capabilities.
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Frequently asked questions
Old sleeping bags can be cut and sewn into items such as quilts, pillows, dog beds, foot quilts, or camping blankets.
Sleeping bags should be dried between trips to prevent mould and mildew from growing on the surface and inside the insulation. They should be unzipped and hung over a line or a large hanger in a covered outdoor space for 6 to 8 hours, avoiding direct sunlight. They can also be stored in a roomy closet corner in a jumbo cotton storage bag.
Sleeping bags do not have an expiration date, but they may need to be replaced after several years of heavy use or neglect. Down feathers break down over time, and higher-quality downs will break down quicker. Sleeping bags can lose their heat rating over time, and loft or fluffiness, which is key to keeping users warm.
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