Colin Snow
Mildew on sleeping bags can be a challenging issue to address, and it is essential to act promptly to prevent the problem from worsening. The musty smell and unsightly stains caused by mildew can be off-putting, leading some people to discard their sleeping bags altogether. However, several DIY solutions can effectively remove mildew and restore sleeping bags to their former glory. From thorough washing and drying techniques to the use of specific cleaning agents, mildew-affected sleeping bags can often be salvaged with the right approach.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Prevention | Store sleeping bags in a dry place, not in dry bags |
| First steps | Check for small black spots, a sign of mildew |
| Spritz with an odor remover | |
| Washing | Wash with laundry soap, borax, laundry booster, and vinegar |
| Use a front-loading machine | |
| Set to "ultra heavy soil" wash and maximum rinse | |
| Wash with down-specific soap, e.g. Nikwax Down Wash | |
| Use tennis balls in the dryer to maintain fluffiness | |
| Drying | Hang the bag outside to ensure thorough drying |
| Dry in the sun, as UV light kills mold | |
| Odor removal | Use Pine-Sol, Mirazyme, or undiluted quat-only solution |
| Spritz with diluted bleach water |
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What You'll Learn
Identify mildew on sleeping bags
Mildew on sleeping bags can be identified by sight and smell. Look for small black spots anywhere on the bag, which is a tell-tale sign of mildew. Mildew can also appear as white spots or growths. If you suspect mildew, give the bag a good sniff. A faint, off-putting smell may indicate mildew. If you're unsure, letting the bag air out thoroughly in a dry place for several days can help to confirm or dispel your suspicions.
Mildew can occur surprisingly quickly, especially in wet and humid conditions. It can also be caused by storing sleeping bags in plastic bags, where moisture can get trapped. If you're backpacking or camping, always ensure your sleeping bag is thoroughly dry before packing it away.
If you discover mildew on your sleeping bag, it's important to act promptly. Mildew can cause serious health issues, depending on the type of mold. If the bag is heavily affected, it may be best to discard it. However, if the mildew is caught early, it can often be successfully removed.
There are several methods for treating mildew on sleeping bags, which we will cover in the following sections.
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![X-14 Professional Instant Mildew Stain Remover, [Non-Aerosol Trigger], 32 OZ](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51--j5iJkuL._AC_UL320_.jpg)
Washing machines for cleaning
If you want to clean mildew from your sleeping bag, it is recommended to use a front-loading washing machine. Before starting the cleaning process, make sure there is no residual detergent in the machine. If your washing machine has settings that allow it to spin and drain out the water without going through a full cycle, do that first to get rid of the moldy water.
Next, place your sleeping bag, along with any other affected items like a pillow or stuff sack, into the machine. Add laundry soap, borax, laundry booster, and vinegar to the mix. You can also use Pine-Sol, which is said to eliminate mildew odours, although some sources have not tried this method. Set the cycle to "ultra-heavy soil" wash and maximum rinse.
After the wash, conventional wisdom suggests hanging your sleeping bag outdoors to dry in the fresh air. Alternatively, you can put it in the dryer on a low or gentle heat setting. To avoid clumping, some recommend placing tennis balls in the dryer with the sleeping bag.
It is important to note that cleaning a sleeping bag in a washing machine may violate the manufacturer's care instructions and could potentially damage the bag or the machine itself. Proceed with caution and at your own risk.
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Air drying sleeping bags
Air drying your sleeping bag is an important step in the cleaning process. It is also a good idea to air your sleeping bag after a camping trip, before storing it away.
Firstly, it is important to ensure your sleeping bag is suitable to be washed and dried. Down sleeping bags are particularly susceptible to damage during the washing and drying process, so always check the manufacturer's instructions. If you are unsure, it may be best to take your sleeping bag to a Laundromat with commercial front-loading machines.
If you are drying your sleeping bag after a camping trip, simply unzip the bag and hang it in a dry place for several days. You can then store it loosely in a large cotton or mesh storage sack.
If you are air-drying your sleeping bag after washing it, the process is a little more complex. After washing, gently squeeze out any excess water. You can then hang your sleeping bag in a dry place. It is important to ensure the bag is completely dry before storing it away. This may take several days.
To speed up the drying process, you can put your sleeping bag in a dryer on a low-heat setting. To prevent the bag's insulation from clumping together, put a couple of tennis balls or dryer balls into the dryer with the sleeping bag. However, some sources warn that tennis balls can tear the outer fabric of the sleeping bag, so proceed with caution.
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Removing mildew stains
Mildew stains on sleeping bags can be tricky to remove, but it is possible to do so without damaging the bag. Here are some detailed steps to remove mildew stains:
Firstly, identify the type of sleeping bag you have. Synthetic bags can be washed at home, whereas down bags may require a commercial laundry machine. If you have a front-loading washing machine, use it to spin and drain the water without starting a full cycle first. This will help remove the moldy water.
Next, prepare a mixture of borax and hot water. Dissolve a mugful of borax in hot water. You can also add laundry soap, laundry booster, or vinegar to the mix. Once dissolved, pour this mixture into the washing machine along with your sleeping bag. If you are using a commercial laundry machine, use a down-specific soap like Nikwax Down Wash.
After washing, the bag should be dried thoroughly. Sunlight is a natural mold killer, so hanging the bag out to dry in direct sunlight is ideal. If you cannot access direct sunlight, tumble drying on a low setting is an alternative. To maintain the fluffiness of the bag, place two or three tennis balls or tennis shoes in the dryer along with the sleeping bag.
If mildew stains remain after washing, spot treat the affected areas with a mild detergent or mildew remover. You can also try using a product like MiraZyme, which is known to effectively remove mold odors and stains.
Finally, ensure your sleeping bag is completely dry before storing it in a dry place. Leaving the bag open when stored can also help prevent mildew from forming in the future.
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Preventing mildew on sleeping bags
Allow Thorough Airing
Before storing your sleeping bag, ensure it is completely dry. Allow it to air out thoroughly in a dry place for several days. This prevents any trapped moisture from fostering mildew growth.
Opt for Breathable Storage
Avoid storing your sleeping bag in airtight containers or dry bags. Instead, choose a storage bag or container that allows the bag to breathe and prevents moisture buildup. Keep the bag in a dry, well-ventilated area.
Sunlight Exposure
Sunlight is a natural mildew killer. After cleaning your sleeping bag, dry it in direct sunlight. The UV rays from the sun will help eliminate any remaining mildew spores and bacteria, ensuring your bag is safe for future use.
Use Mildew-Resistant Products
When cleaning your sleeping bag, consider using products known for their mildew-resistant properties. For example, you can add a capful of borax to your wash cycle or use a mildew-killing detergent. These products can help prevent mildew growth during storage.
Regular Cleaning
Regularly clean your sleeping bag, even if it doesn't appear dirty. Mildew can grow without a noticeable smell or visible signs. Washing your bag periodically will reduce the chances of mildew buildup.
By following these preventive measures, you can effectively minimize the risk of mildew on your sleeping bags, ensuring they remain clean, safe, and comfortable for your outdoor adventures.
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Frequently asked questions
If you find mildew on your sleeping bag, you should first assess the severity of the problem. If the mildew is widespread and you have concerns about your health, it may be best to discard the bag. However, if the mildew is minor, you can attempt to clean it off.
To clean mildew off your sleeping bag, you can use an enzyme cleaner like Gear Aid Revivex Odor Eliminator (formerly known as Mirazyme). Fill your bathtub or a plastic container with lukewarm water, add one capful of the cleaner per 20 gallons of water, and dip the sleeping bag into the solution. Let it soak for 15 minutes, then rinse and air-dry the bag.
Yes, you can use a non-detergent soap like Dr. Bronner's liquid soap or Nikwax Down Wash. Massage the soap into your bag, let it soak for 10-15 minutes, drain the tub, and then rinse your bag in cold water. You can also add vinegar or laundry boosters like Pine-Sol to your wash cycle to help remove mildew and its smell.
To prevent mildew growth, it is important to properly care for your sleeping bag, especially after a camping trip. Hang your sleeping bag up to dry after each use and let it air out for a day or two before repacking for storage. Inspect your gear periodically, especially if it is stored in a damp place.
Mildew can manifest as white or dark spots on your sleeping bag. It imparts a musty smell and can weaken the fabric, making it more prone to rips and holes. If you notice any of these signs, be sure to take action to remove the mildew and prevent further damage.
