A sleeping bag is an important piece of camping gear that will keep you warm and could even save your life in an emergency. With proper care, a quality sleeping bag can last many years. This guide will discuss the basics of how to take care of a sleeping bag.
Most sleeping bags can be washed in a home washing machine. Wash sleeping bags when they start to smell or if they’re stained in a spill. Frequent washing can hasten the aging of your bag, so washing should be limited to only when necessary. Check the tag on your sleeping bag for specific washing instructions and make sure to follow them—especially for drying.
Sleeping bags are filled with either synthetic or down filler. The fluffy loft of these materials traps air within the fibers, which provides insulation. If compressed for long periods, filler material can lose some of its loft and will provide less insulation. Proper storage ensures the sleeping bag filler material will keep its loft as long as possible.
Many modern sleeping bags come with a hanging bag for storage. This is a large mesh bag with a long drawstring that can be used to hang in the closet. Hanging your bag in a dry place out of direct sunlight is the best way to store it.
Small rips or tears can be repaired with a basic sewing kit. Some brands like Patagonia will repair their sleeping bags for a small fee. This way you can enjoy more years from your gear and keep it out of the landfill.