Tips for Sleeping Bag Care

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Illustration by Fotolia/caraman
Sleeping bag care tip #1: don't spread your bag directly on the ground. Protect it with some sort of waterproof layer or padding.

A down bag is of little value if the sack spews fluff every time you snuggle into it. Since a down-filled bag is one of the most delicate items of camping gear, it must be treated with respect if it’s to give you years of use. I’ve compiled these sleeping bag care recommendations to help you have those years.

For Outdoors…

The nylon shell of a typical down bag is sturdy but thin, so it should be protected from wet weather and snags. When you camp outdoors, always place a waterproof layer (such as a groundsheet or foam pad) between the sack and the earth to prevent the bag from soaking up moisture or ripping on a stick. (If a snag does occur, don’t be caught unprepared: always include a roll of ripstop tape in your hiking kit)

Be leery as well, of snuggling too close to the campfire. And if your bag gets wet, don’t try to steam the dampness out. Down does take an inconveniently long time to dry, but if you move closer to the blaze to speed the process, you’ll likely scorch the covering fabric and ruin your bag.

…and Indoors

  • Published on Mar 1, 1983
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