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Tearing Down Camp: Sleeping Bag Cleaning Solutions
from: Helping Us With CampingA trip to the outdoors can be a lot of fun and a great way to let the cares of the world slip away in the quiet of nature. Yet, in order for the next camping trip to be any fun, all the gear in the camp has to be properly cared for and maintained for future use. A sleeping bag is one of the most important pieces in a camp. Sleeping bag maintenance and care means getting the most out of the money invested. Of all the items that will need maintenance in a camp, sleeping bag care is often low on the list, if there at all. Although sleeping bags do not require a great deal of attention, and too much washing can cut down on a bag’s lifespan, a small regiment of care is still required from time to time.
For those who like to camp, sleeping bag care sometimes requires more than the usual shake and airing out. Body oils, dust and other grime will eventually cause odors and break down the bag’s fibers. Unless one has an alternative bedding idea for the outdoors when they set up camp, sleeping bag maintenance is key! One should always pay close attention to the manufacturer’s suggestions for cleaning. However, here are some general cleaning guidelines:
Machine Washing
* Down bags will require a gentle soap- such as Woolite- while synthetic bags can cope with a mild detergent. Use the recommended minimum amount.
* Since dirt and oils collect there most often, give the head and foot area of the bag a good scrub before putting the bag in the washing machine.
* Use front loading machines to wash the sleeping bag only. Top loading washing machines are too hard on a bag’s fabric.
* Wash the bag in warm water and rinse in cold.
* Run two or more rinse cycles to ensure the soap is completely out of the bag. Any remaining soap can weaken the fibers of the bag.
Hand Washing
* A bathtub is the perfect place for hand washing a sleeping bag.
* Use warm water and a minimal amount of mild soap, such as Woolite
* As with the step above, give the head and foot area of the bag a good scrub.
* Avoid commercial stain removers as they break down a sleeping bag’s fibers.
* Knead the bag to work the soap and water around.
* To rinse the bag, refill the tub three or four times. Only press the bag to get rid of any soapy water. Never twist or wring the bag.
Drying
* Roll the bag and press out as much water as possible.
* Carefully move the bag to a large plastic trash bag for transport to the nearest Laundromat.
For those who regularly camp, sleeping bag liners help absorb the dirt and odors during use and can be easily thrown into a washing machine after a trip.
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