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GEAR
Expert Answers
Cleaning A Down Sleeping Bag
Alex's Question:
How do you recommend cleaning a dirty down sleeping bag?
—Alex McNeily
Annie's Answer:
If you've got a stinky bag, then you've probably spent enough nights out to know that delicate down is a slow-to-dry insulator. It's important to preserve the natural oils and resilience of down plumules, which can be damaged by frequent laundering with harsh detergents or dry cleaning agents.
The best way to keep your bag clean is to air it out after each use—drape it over a sundrenched boulder when you're in the field. Often the hood area and draft collar become darkened from hair and facial oils before the rest of your cocoon needs a wash. Spot cleaning shell or lining fabric is easy with a paste made from laundry soap and a toothbrush. Lift the stained area away from insulation; scrub the material, rinse well and hang it to dry.
When it's time for a full-baptism, hand-washing is recommended: agitation from a machine can tear the baffles of your bag. Fill your bathtub with warm water and add some gentle, down-formulated cleaner like those from Nikwax, McNett or Kenyon (available at outdoor shops). Immerse the bag, allow it to soak 15 minutes, then gently knead the bag. Drain the tub, and press water out of the bag. Fill the tub with cold rinse water. Knead the bag, let soak for 15 minutes, drain the tub, press the water out. Repeat once more.
Place the wet bag in your dryer at"delicate" setting—NO tennis ball!—and check it periodically to work out the clumps of down with your fingers. Obviously this process takes awhile. Best to have a good book on hand.
For more advice on care and use of sleeping bags, visit the All-in-One Sleeping Bag Guide.
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