washing down bags

[Dingus Khan]

Hey all,

If this is a repost I apologize...
What is the best and safest way to wash a down bag? besides mildew, are there any other specific risks involved?

feel free to direct me to links/previous posts as well. thanks

[Frolicking Dinosaurs]

This thread has many good suggestions (http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/showthread.php?t=18858)

[Sly]

Oh man, that reminds me. I was just at REI twice this past week and forgot to get some Down Wash (http://www.rei.com/online/store/ProductDisplay?storeId=8000&catalogId=40000008000&productId=47917445&parent_category_rn=40000702&vcat=REI_SEARCH).

[Footslogger]

Hey all,

If this is a repost I apologize...
What is the best and safest way to wash a down bag? besides mildew, are there any other specific risks involved?

feel free to direct me to links/previous posts as well. thanks
==================================

Biggest risk is getting it mangled by using a small wash machine or damage from harsh detergents.

I have successfully washed 4 down bags several times now. Go to a laundramat and find a large capacity front loader and use something like "Downwash" from Nikwax. Just follow the directions on the bottle.

For drying ...again, find one of those large capacity machines and carefuly transfer your wet and dripping bag into the dryer. Add a dozen or so tennis balls and let er rip on low/medium heat for a half hour or so ...checking it regularly. Once it's dry and lofted just shake it out and then leave it in open air for about 24 hours. Store it loose in an oversized cotton bag.

'Slogger

[Booley]

Try this for info on washing bags as well!

http://www.westernmountaineering.com/index.cfm?section=Product%20Tips%20and%20Care

[Dingus Khan]

thanks, you guys rock