How to store your sleeping bag

ByMoises Campos
How to store your sleeping bag / Photo: Josh-duke (unsplash)
How to store your sleeping bag / Photo: Josh-duke (unsplash)

After a multi-day mountain hike, it is necessary to devote sufficient time to taking care of all the items you took with you on the activity. Among them, the sleeping bag is one of those that requires the most attention in order not to damage it later.

How to store the sleeping bag for transporting it

The process of storing the sleeping bag for later transport is essential because it achieves a minimum volume for ease of transport. In addition, if the material of the bag is feathers or fibres, folding it always in the same direction and with the same folds causes it to lose its characteristics in the long run.

The following steps are recommended in order to store the sleeping bag for transport:

  • The first thing is lay the bag flat on the surface either inside the tent or in the shelter itself.
  • After this, it is necessary to closing the zip and the protection it carries.
  • If you are swollen from overnight use we will take the air out of it. This is done to make it easier to store later.
  • It is then picked up by the feet because if you start at the head end, a large air pocket forms at the end, which increases its volume and makes it difficult to put it in its bag.
  • Once saved, in order to be able to compress The first thing to do is to position the tapes in the right way.
  • It is then compressed on one side first, then on the opposite side and thus a uniform volume can be obtained.
  • Depending on the type of bag, for example, feathered, can be stored in its bag without rolling it up.The product is only to be inserted with some pressure into its packaging.
  • What is due avoid keeping the bag compressed for too longThe product may become deformed.

How to store your sleeping bag at home

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:

  • The first thing to do is to take it out of its case and place it in a horizontal position.
  • Then, it is opened so that all the moisture produced by perspiration can be removed. We will turn it inside out and leave it in this way long enough for it to ventilate properly.
  • You can then store it in a bag, which is sometimes included when you buy the bag, or in any other cotton or mesh bag. It can even be in a large pillowcase.
  • The bag shall be stored more loosely than how we carry it on activity days, especially if the bag is made of feathers.
  • 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.

Tips for the care of the sleeping bag during the activity or in camp

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. Here are a few tips on how to take care of your sleeping bag in the camp:

  • 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.

Conclusion

The cost of a sleeping bag is high and therefore it has to be taken care of so that it stays with you for a long time in good condition.

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SOURCES: Safety & Rescue / Made in Mountain