Why Proper Care Matters
A great sleeping bag is an investment, and once you’ve found one you love, you’ll want to keep it in play for as long as possible. Dirt, oils, and moisture can reduce its insulation efficiency over time. Proper care not only extends the life of your sleeping bag but also ensures it keeps you warm in the outdoors. Follow these steps to keep your sleeping bag in top condition.
How do I take care of my sleeping bag?
- Wash it only when necessary to preserve its insulation properties
- Dry it properly to maintain loft and prevent clumping
- Store it correctly to extend its lifespan
How often should I wash my sleeping bag?
You don't need to wash your sleeping bag after every trip, but if you use it frequently, aim for a wash about once a year. Signs that it's time for a clean?
- Visible dirt and stains from body oils and sweat buildup
- The bag feels flat or lumpy, indicating clumping of insulation
- The fabric is losing its water resistance
How to wash your sleeping bag
Always check the care label on your sleeping bag for specific instructions.
Step 1: Pre-Wash Prep
- Spot clean any marks with a clean, damp cloth before washing the whole bag.
- If a full wash is needed, we recommend handwashing your sleeping bag in a bath or large tub with cold water and a non-detergent soap.
- For down sleeping bags, use a down-specific wash like Nikwax Down Wash Direct®. For synthetic bags, a high-performance cleaner like Nikwax Tech Wash® is best. Regular detergents can strip essential oils from down or damage synthetic fill.
Step 2: Washing Cycle
- Rinse your bag several times to remove all soap residue.
- Gently press out excess water-do not wring or twist it.
- If you choose to machine wash, use a front-loading machine on a delicate cycle with cold water. We recommend avoiding machine washing, however, as it can damage down baffles or pull apart synthetic insulation.
How to Dry Your Sleeping Bag
Drying your sleeping bag properly is crucial for maintaining its loft and insulation properties.
Air Drying
- Lay your bag flat over a clothes horse in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight.
- If you need to line dry, ensure the weight is evenly distributed and avoid hanging it while soaking wet.
Tumble Drying
- You can tumble-dry your sleeping bag on a low heat setting.
- Add a few clean tennis or dryer balls to the dryer to break up any insulation clumps.
- Do not dry when soaking wet, as the bag will be very heavy and could damage the internal baffles
- Never iron or dry clean your sleeping bag.
How to Repair Your Sleeping Bag
Outdoor adventures can be rough on your gear. Sleeping bags often avoid the worst of it as they’re usually tucked away, safe in your bag. If your sleeping bag does get a tear, it’s best to act fast to prevent any down from escaping.
Sleeping Bag Care Tips
Taking care of your sleeping bag during and between trips will extend its lifespan and reduce how often you need to wash it. A win for both your gear and the environment.
Wear Clean Clothes to Bed
After a long day on the trail, it’s tempting to crawl straight into your sleeping bag, but dirt and oils can build up over time. Change into a fresh pair of clothes before getting in to help keep your bag cleaner for longer.
Use a Sleeping Bag Liner
A sleeping bag liner adds a layer of protection between your body and the bag’s interior. It helps keep dirt out and provides extra warmth. Macpac’s sleeping bag liners are lightweight, soft on the skin, and easy to pack.
Air Out Your Bag After Use
Moisture can accumulate inside your bag from sweat and condensation. To prevent mould and mildew growth, unzip your sleeping bag, turn it inside out, and hang it over a clothesline or clothes horse to air and dry as soon as you can.
Store it Properly
To maintain loft, store your sleeping bag uncompressed in a large mesh bag. All Macpac down sleeping bags come with a separate mesh storage sack. Avoid keeping your bag stuffed in its compression sack for long periods, as this can crush the insulation.
Need advice? Visit your local Macpac store or contact our team online—we’re here to help keep your gear in top condition!
