Sleeping bag storage guide: Mistakes that destroy insulation (and how to avoid them)
Pyrenees and mountains 📩
Here 🔥If you are one of those who sweat every gram of your backpack on the Trans-Pyrenees or other long-distance routes, you know that the sleeping bag is your thermal lifeline. But 70% users store it wrongly. There is no room for generic advice here: we are talking about material physics, relative humidity and intelligent compression.
1. Transport en route: Compressing without destroying the insulation
Key data:
- Feathers: They lose 10% of their loft for every 24 hours compressed.
- Synthetics: They resist prolonged compression better, but accumulate 30% more moisture.
Technique such as pros (step by step):
- Never roll up: Fold in "accordion" to avoid chronic pressure points.
- Strategic direction: Start at the feet and spiral the air out (avoid internal pockets).
- Adjustable compression bags: Use models with multiple points of adjustment (e.g: Sea to Summit eVent 10L).
- Expert trick: In wet weather, wrap the bag in a DWR cover before compressing.
Serious error: Leave the bag compressed for more than 12 hours (feathers) or 24 hours (synthetics).
2. Home Storage: The Science of Reclaiming the loft of the sack
Comparative table:
| Factor | Feathers | Synthetics |
|---|---|---|
| Drying time | 48-72 hours | 24-48 hours |
| Maximum humidity | 40% RH | 60% RH |
| Better storage | Hanging in breathing bag | In ventilated plastic box |
Technical process:
After the activity and the transport of the bag, the bag is usually compressed. Then proceed according to the following steps in order to keeping the sleeping bag at home:
- Post-route drying: Hang the bag upside down on a rope (never in direct sunlight: UV degrades nylon fabrics 20x faster).
- Storage bags: Opt for materials of organic non-woven cotton (permeability: ≥5,000 g/m²/24h).
- Humidity control: Add silica sachets (change every 3 months) or a mini hygrometer (e.g., a hygrometer): ThermoPro TP50).
In any case, the important thing is that the bag should not be stored neither compressed nor airtight. This is not advisable because in an airtight container condensation accumulates and moisture can build up, leading to mould and mildew.
Real case: A sack Western Mountaineering Kodiak MF retrieved the 95% from its loft after 6 months of hanging (vs. 60% in a compressor case).
3. On the move or in camp: Survive the wet without ruining your bag.
It is essential that your sleeping bag is kept clean and dry while you are camping, as it will be your shelter while you are resting.
Problems on long distance treks:
- Night sweats: One bag can absorb up to 1L of body moisture in 5 nights.
- Critical isolation: Each 10% of humidity reduces the thermal limit by 1.5°C (test EN 13537).
The following are some of them tips on how to take care of your sleeping bag when camping or active:
- You should avoid getting into the bag with dirty clothes. You should also remove any sunscreen residue from your face or neck to avoid soiling the sleeping bag. This is because body oils and dirt will eventually strip the sleeping bag of its insulating or breathable properties.
- If the bag is to be placed directly on the ground, it is necessary to place something to protect it first, such as a mat.
- Take care of the zips or zips of the bag. You should be familiar with them so that when camping you can use them in the dark.
- Air the bag every day you use it. To do this, open it from the inside out in order to evaporate all the moisture it may contain. It is not recommended to place it in the sun for a long time, as the sun's rays can degrade the fabric.
- The sleeping bag should not be stepped on or walked on, as it can be damaged. Similarly, it should not be placed near a campfire or candle, as a spark can reach it and damage it, or worse, ignite it.
4. Advanced maintenance: When the bag is Investment
- Scientific washing: Maximum 2 cycles/year with enzyme-free detergent. Centrifuges at 600 rpm.
- Loft test: Measure insulation height with ruler every 6 months. Drop >20% = needs professional filling.
- Repairs : Self-adhesive patches of Tenacious Tape or thread spectra (resistance 15kg).
Final Checklist: Your bag will live 10 years (not 2)
✅ Never store wet (moisture = thermal death).
Feathers: Maximum 12 hours compressed.
✅ Use mesh covers during trekking for ventilation.
✅ Rejuvenate the loft by gently tapping it every 6 months.
Don't miss any adventure in the Pyrenees!
