It is easy to toss aside the camping gear once the trip is over. But the convenience will only last as long as the next trip. If you do not take the necessary precaution in storing your equipment, you may find that you need to replace or repair them for your next vacation. One of the most important items that should be properly cared for is the
sleeping bag. These items are made out of fabrics that tend to be damaged if their condition is not given the attention they deserve.
After a camping trip, take the time to engage in some spot cleaning to get rid of any dirt or grime that the bag may have come in contact with. To do this, make a paste out of soap and water. Apply the paste to the area in the bag that has dirt in it and with a toothbrush, scrape off the dirt.
The reason why spot cleaning should be done before subjecting the bag to a washing is because vigorous washing may damage the bag and make it less comfortable than before. If you feel that you are not up to the task, most laundry stations offer the option to clean the bags professionally. Take note that not all bags, particularly those that are made from downy, can be dry-cleaned. The solvents used in dry cleaning can cause the material to lose some of its natural oils, which account for their fluffiness.
If you are brave enough to do the washing yourself, there are ways to make process easier and less risky for the bag. First, always make sure to read the labels to find out the recommendations of the manufacturer on how to clean the bag. Some may even be strong enough to withstand a gentle spin in the machine.
A good rule of thumb in all bags is to wash them by hand and choose a mild detergent to ensure that the fibers are subjected to as little stress as possible. Refrain from twisting the materials and instead soak the entire bag for approximately 15 minutes to dislodge the dirt. Rinse the entire bag in cold water and then gently press out the excess water.
Allow the air to naturally dry the sleeping bags. Some bags can be placed in a tumble dry machine, but the heat used should be the lowest setting possible. In fact, most manufacturers recommend that no heat is used because the insulating material may melt.
