Ashwin Lewis
Sleeping bags should be washed at least once a year, or more often if used frequently. The best way to wash a sleeping bag depends on its material composition and your access to cleaning equipment. Sleeping bags can be washed by hand in a bathtub or a large basin, or in a commercial-size washer and dryer at a laundromat. To dry a sleeping bag, it can be hung out on a washing line for at least 24 hours, laid flat in an area with low humidity and no direct sunlight, or dried in a large tumble dryer on low heat.
Washing a Sleeping Bag
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How often to wash | Once a year, minimum; more often if used frequently |
| When to wash | Before storing for an extended period |
| How to prevent dirt | Use a bag liner, sleep in clean clothes, and air out the bag |
| How to wash | Hand wash or use a commercial-size washer and dryer at a laundromat |
| Use a front-loading washer without an agitator | |
| Use a gentle cycle and warm water | |
| Use a soap specifically formulated for down or synthetic bags | |
| Avoid laundry detergent, fabric softener, bleach, and alternative-bleach products | |
| Wash with tennis balls to agitate the fill | |
| Run multiple cycles to completely dry the bag | |
| Air dry by laying it flat or hanging it up overnight |
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What You'll Learn
Handwashing a sleeping bag
To dry, place your sleeping bag in a dryer or let it air-dry. If you are using a dryer, use low heat and add a few dryer balls to break up clumps of fill and speed up drying time. If your dryer is too small for your bag, air-dry it on a drying rack or clothesline. If you are air-drying, lay the bag 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 so as not to put too much stress on the nylon fabric. To be sure your bag is thoroughly dry before placing it in its storage bag, lay it out or hang it up overnight.
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Machine washing a sleeping bag
When preparing the sleeping bag for washing, ensure that it is properly secured. Zip up the bag completely to avoid any snags or damage to the zipper. Additionally, consider adding a few damp articles, such as towels or t-shirts, to help balance the spin of the machine and prevent excessive strain on the bag.
For the washing cycle, select the gentle or delicate setting with warm or cold water. Avoid using hot water as it may damage the fabric. Choose a soap specifically formulated for down or synthetic sleeping bags, avoiding standard laundry detergents and fabric softeners. Use the recommended amount of soap to prevent oversudsing, which can be challenging to rinse out. If desired, add baking soda to the machine to help break down acidic dirt, such as perspiration.
After the wash cycle, thoroughly rinse the sleeping bag at least twice to ensure all soap residue is removed. You may also run it through a second wash-and-rinse cycle without soap for added assurance. Support the entire bag when removing it from the washer to avoid placing stress on specific areas. Gently squeeze out any excess water before proceeding to the drying phase.
For drying, set the dryer on low heat to avoid damaging the fabric or fill. Synthetic bags typically dry faster than down sleeping bags, so adjust the drying time accordingly. To maintain the loft and prevent clumping of the fill, add two to four tennis balls to the dryer, especially for down bags. Run the dryer for at least an hour, and possibly longer, to ensure the bag is completely dry.
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Drying a sleeping bag
If using a dryer, opt for a commercial-size dryer at a laundromat, as it has a larger capacity that allows the sleeping bag to tumble freely. Set the dryer to low heat, as high heat can damage the bag's delicate fabric. For down sleeping bags, add two to three tennis balls to help restore the loft and speed up the drying process. For synthetic bags, tennis balls are optional. Run the dryer for at least an hour, and possibly longer, until the bag is completely dry.
If a dryer is not available, air drying is an option, although it will take longer. Lay the bag flat on a clean surface in an area with low humidity and no direct sunlight. Alternatively, hang the bag up to dry, being careful to distribute the weight evenly to avoid putting stress on the fabric. Leave the bag to dry overnight or for several days, ensuring it is completely dry before storing it.
To ensure your sleeping bag is thoroughly dried, it is recommended to air it out after each use, especially after a camping trip. Unzip the bag and let it dry before storing it loosely in a cotton or mesh sack to maintain its condition.
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Using a sleeping bag liner
Sleeping bag liners are easy to care for and can be washed after each trip. To wash a liner, use a machine wash with cold to warm water and avoid using fabric softeners as they can compromise the wicking ability of the liner. If you are using a top-loading washing machine, it is recommended to put the liner in a bag to prevent the drawcord from snagging. Air drying is preferable for all liners, as the heat of a dryer can damage certain materials such as silk.
In addition to using a liner, there are other ways to keep your sleeping bag clean and reduce the frequency of washing. It is recommended to sleep in clean clothes, especially long underwear and socks, and to wear a clean tee and underwear in warmer weather. A knit cap or clean bandana can also help keep oily hair off the bag's hood. If you have sunscreen on your face and neck, it is advisable to wash or wipe it off before bed to prevent it from soaking into the bag.
Spot cleaning is another effective way to care for your sleeping bag. You can make a paste with non-detergent soap and water and use a toothbrush to gently clean the shell, focusing on areas like the hood and collar where oils tend to accumulate. By holding the shell or liner fabric away from the insulation, you can clean and rinse without getting the inner fill wet.
Overall, using a sleeping bag liner is a convenient way to maintain the cleanliness and longevity of your sleeping bag, reducing the need for frequent washing.
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Keeping a sleeping bag clean at camp
To keep your sleeping bag clean at camp, there are a few simple steps you can follow. Firstly, always sleep in clean clothes. Change into fresh underwear and socks, and if it's warm, a clean t-shirt and underwear will do. If it's cold, wear clean long underwear. A knit cap or bandana will also keep oily hair off the bag's hood. Avoid crawling into your sleeping bag wearing the same clothes you hiked in, as body oils, sweat, and dirt will accumulate and degrade the bag's insulating power.
Secondly, consider using a sleeping bag liner. Liners can be made from cotton, silk, wool, or polyester and act as a barrier between your skin and the bag, keeping it clean. They are lightweight and can add warmth to your sleeping bag.
Thirdly, be mindful of where you place your sleeping bag. If you're sleeping outdoors, put a pad on the ground first to protect the underside of your bag from sharp objects and dirt. Avoid jumping around or standing inside the bag, as this can damage it.
Finally, air out your bag whenever it gets damp to prevent the buildup of moisture, which can lead to mildew. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for care and cleaning, as some bags may have specific requirements.
By following these simple steps, you can keep your sleeping bag clean and extend its lifespan, making it more pleasant to sleep in on your next camping trip.
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Frequently asked questions
Hand washing a sleeping bag in a bathtub is one option, but it can be very labor-intensive. If you have access to a laundromat, it is recommended to use a front-loading commercial washer and a large dryer. If you're washing your bag at home, use a front-loading washer and a dryer on low heat.
You don't need to wash your sleeping bag after every trip, but it's a good idea to launder it at least once a year. If you use your bag more frequently, you may want to wash it every couple of months.
Use a gentle, non-detergent soap that is made for washing down and synthetic-filled items. Avoid using too much soap, as it will be hard to rinse out.
If you're using a dryer, set it to low heat as high temperatures can melt synthetic fabrics and fibres. If you're air-drying your sleeping bag, lay it flat on a clean surface in an area with low humidity and no direct sunlight.
Using a sleeping bag liner can help to keep your bag clean by acting as a barrier between your skin and the bag. It's also a good idea to sleep in clean clothes and to air out your bag whenever it gets damp.
