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OVERVIEW
Caring for Your Sleeping Bag in Camp
Sleep in clean clothes: Even when you're exhausted, avoid crawling into your bag wearing
the same clothes you hiked in. Over time, body oils, sweat and dirt can rob your sleeping
bag of its insulating power. Change into clean long underwear and socks for sleep. If it's
warm out, at least wear a clean tee and underwear. A knit cap or clean bandanna will keep
oily hair off the bag's hood. Sunscreen from your face and neck can soak into your bag, so
wash or wipe off any before going to bed.
Consider using a sleeping bag liner: Liners can be cotton, silk, wool or polyester and are
fairly lightweight. They keep your sleeping bag clean because they act as a barrier between
your skin and the bag. Plus, they add about 5 to 15 degrees to your bag's temperature
rating. At the end of each trip, simply wash the liner and you're good to go again.
Protect your bag from the ground: If you plan to sleep out under the stars, put a pad down
on the ground first. The bottom of the bag needs protection from sharp sticks and other
objects like pine needles.
Treat it gently: Never jump around camp standing inside your sleeping bag. It'll trash the
bag's toe box. If you expect to be sitting by a campfire with your bag wrapped around you
for
warmth, consider bringing an older synthetic bag. You don't want sparks burning holes in
your brand-new sleeping bag.
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