Do not store your Kluane sleeping bag in the stuff sack provided. The stuff sack is for transport only. Even though we use only the finest down available, sustained compression will damage its loft retention qualities. When storing your bag, hang it up or stuff it loosely in a large box or duffle bag. Compression sacks can be used though your must be extra careful for the above reasons.
Always “stuff” your Kluane bag into the stuff sack. Do not roll it up. Start with the foot end, making sure the bottom of the stuff sack gets tightly packed, then continue stuffing handful after handful until the task is completed. It is sometimes easier to stuff bags made from ‘waterproof breathable’ materials if the bag is turned inside-out and as much air as possible can be squished out prior to stuffing. When unpacking, gently pull your bag from the stuff sack. Shake the bag carefully until you can see it regaining its loft, then leave the bag for several minutes before crawling in. Since down compresses under your body, losing much of its insulating power, always use a self-inflating mattress, foam pad, or other insulation under your bag. Air your bag out as often as possible during use and after a trip, especially true of bags with ‘waterproof breathable’ shells. Never attempt to dry your bag over a campfire or stove. Sparks will melt thought the nylon in seconds. Over the years we have repaired a multitude of bags damaged this way.
Your bag should be washed when dirty but once a year washing is sufficient for heavily used bags. Intervals between washing can be extended when a liner is used. We do not recommend dry-cleaning since even mild cleaning solvents are too harsh and may rob your bag of loft. If you must have your bag dry-cleaned seek out a reputable cleaner who has experience cleaning down bags. Before leaving your bag with the cleaner, inspect the bag in their presence. This way if the bag is returned to you in a damaged condition the cleaner cannot say (and this happened to us) that the bag was damaged when it was brought in. Warning! If you have your bag dry cleaned it must be aired thoroughly before use. Cleaning solvents absorbed by the down can cause illness or death. Air the bag for at least a week then hold the bag up to your nose. If you can still smell cleaning fluid, air the bag some more.
The best way to clean a down bag is to do it yourself…..by hand. Follow instructions carefully however, since improper home cleaning is the leading cause of ruined sleeping bags.
With proper care your Kluane sleeping bag will reward you with many years of reliable service. If you have any questions or need any information regarding your bag please contact us.