Give Your Down New Life – How to Wash Sleeping Bags and Down Jackets with re:CLAIM Down Wash
Down products like sleeping bags and jackets are unbeatable when it comes to warmth and comfort, whether you're sleeping under the stars or strolling through wintery streets. Over time, however, they collect dirt, sweat, and odors that affect their function and feel. Washing down can seem daunting, but with the right technique and re:CLAIM Down Wash, it's easy to give your down products a fresh start while caring for the materials so they last for years to come.
Why Choose re:CLAIM Down Wash?
re:CLAIM Down Wash is a specially formulated detergent designed to clean and restore down products without compromising their insulating power. Traditional detergents can break down the natural properties of down and leave residues that reduce its loft—the fluffy structure that traps warmth. re:CLAIM Down Wash, on the other hand, is gentle and effective, leaving your sleeping bags and down jackets clean and fresh without losing their warming power.
Step-by-Step: How to Wash Sleeping Bags and Down Jackets
Preparation is Key
1. Check the Care Label: Always check the care label on your sleeping bag or down jacket to ensure it's machine washable.
2. Empty Pockets and Close Zippers: This protects both the garment and the washing machine from unnecessary wear and tear.
3. Choose the Right Machine: If possible, use a front-loading machine as it’s gentler on down products compared to a top-loading machine with an agitator.
Washing Process
1. Use re:claim Down Wash: Add the recommended amount of re:CLAIM Down Wash to the detergent compartment for the best results.
2. Gentle Cycle: Choose a gentle or down-specific cycle with low spin and wash at 30–40°C. Excessive heat can damage the down.
3. Extra Rinse: After washing, run one or two extra rinse cycles to ensure all detergent is removed. Detergent residue can reduce the loft of the down.
Drying – A Crucial Step
1. Tumble Dry with Tennis Balls: Drying is a critical part of the process. Place the down product in a tumble dryer with a couple of clean tennis balls or dryer balls. These help break up clumps and restore the down's fluffiness.
2. Low Heat: Use low heat and tumble dry until the product is completely dry. Down must be entirely dry to prevent mold or loss of insulation.
3. Shake and Fluff: After drying, shake and fluff the product to ensure the down is evenly distributed.
Tips for Long-Term Care of Your Down Products
- Don’t Overwash: Down products don’t need frequent washing—only when they are truly dirty. Overwashing can wear down the down.
- Store Properly: Store sleeping bags in a large storage sack (not a compression sack) to maintain the loft. Down jackets can be hung on a hanger in the closet.
- Spot Cleaning: For minor stains, use a damp cloth and a little re:CLAIM Down Wash to clean the area without washing the entire product.
An Investment in Sustainability and Comfort
Washing your sleeping bag or down jacket with re:CLAIM Down Wash isn’t just a practical solution—it’s also a way to extend the lifespan of your favorite products. With proper care, they can continue to keep you warm and comfortable on many adventures to come.
So, the next time you notice your down jacket has lost some of its fluff or your sleeping bag needs a fresh start, don’t forget to reach for re:CLAIM Down Wash. It’s simple, effective, and gentle—just what your down products need to stay at their best.
