Lofting a sleeping bag

[crosslandkelly]

I have a German army arctic sleeping bag, that I pretty much use all year round. I've had it four or five years now, and it's given great service.
The last few times I've used it though, I've noticed it has become considerably easier to put back in it's stuff sack. Do you think that it has lost it's lofting, and is there a way to re loft it, or should I bite the bullet and get a new one.
Thanks in advance,
Colin.

 

[Mesquite]

Try your attic Colin...

On a sensible note you can always try putting it in your tumble dryer or a launderette's on a low setting with a couple tennis balls

 

[SimonM]

Wash it and then dry as above...works wonders!

 

[crosslandkelly]

There be now't in't attic Steve.

 

[ozzy1977]

Is it feather or synthetic? ,I have had a bit of success with my 2 old coleman bags by running them through the tumble dryer on a medium heat. Unless you have a large one a trip to the laundrette might be a good idea.

 

[crosslandkelly]

Wash it and then dry as above...works wonders!

Oh, right, Cheers guys.

 

[Goatboy]

Aye don't store it in a compression bag, loosely folded on top of a wardrobe (In an old sheet to protect if needs be) Compressing them can make a lot of bags loose at least a season off of their rating. A good wash, low tumble and a beating outside with a tennis racquet should also help.
Every 5th or so clean I used to send my down ones off for professional cleaning (not at your standard dry cleaner - use a specialist) and the difference is unbelievable.

Hope it helps,

Colin.

 

[MertzMan]

I always had reasonable success in renewing my bags in the laundrette. Can't argue with the 3 quid cost for a better nights sleep. That and I no longer smelt like stig of the dump