How To Wash a Sleeping Bag in a Washing Machine | Family Handyman

Several Hours

Beginner

Less than $20

My sleeping bag doesn't see a ton of action. I go camping a few times a year, and my nieces use it occasionally, building forts and giggling when they're here for a visit.

My own slumber party days are over, though, so it's pretty neglected most of the time. That goes for washing it, too. But the holidays are coming, and that means overnight visitors. Time to wash the bag.

I ripped the care tag off long ago, so I asked the laundry experts at ASKO Appliances for advice. Can I do this at home?

Great news! "Sleeping bags can be machine washed at home with the right washer," ASKO product manager Haven Polich says. "The ideal washing machine to clean a sleeping bag is a front-loading washer that is large enough to accommodate queen or king-sized comforters."

Whew. That describes my LG to a T.

The main thing is, avoid a top loader with an agitator, Polich says. Those can easily rip the seams of a sleeping bag. Top-loaders without agitators are fine, as long as they're a good size. Polich says to fully wash sleeping bags every few years, depending on how often you use it. Spot cleaning is perfectly fine most of the time.

It's important to use soap, not detergent, and take special care with down-filled sleeping bags, Polich says. Down can lose its natural loft and clump in the dryer. Consider using a product like NikWax Down Wash Direct for down sleeping bags. And for all sleeping bags (cotton, polyester and down): "Avoid fabric softener, bleach and other non-bleach alternatives," Polich says.

Let's get started.

Ally Childress for Family handyman

Ally Childress for Family handyman

Ally Childress for Family handyman

Ally Childress for Family handyman

Ally Childress for Family handyman