View Full Version : Sleeping bag question
Fireplug
09-13-2016, 12:27
Is there a way to treat a down filled sleeping bag to make it resist water?
No. Any thing you do to keep moisture out will also keep moisture in. and that is bad. If sleeping bag makers could make one that is moisture proof it would have been on the market for decades.
Fireplug
09-13-2016, 15:18
Ok thanks anyways
Not the best material so i read but you can buy it but i dont think you can treat it yourself: https://www.hammockforums.net/forum/showthread.php/111187-HyperDRY-Question
Most good quality down bags are already water resistant, but you can also add nikwax http://www.nikwax.com/en-us/index.php to increase the water resistance but you really canīt make a bag waterproof other than add a water proof cover such as a tent or rain fly or top cover.
nsherry61
09-13-2016, 18:30
Yep. If you want truely water proof or even VERY water resistant, use a bivy.
Is there a way to treat a down filled sleeping bag to make it resist water?
Actually, YES, very much so. From what I gather it depends on the approach in the design and intended use of the sleeping bag or quilt. Some manufacturers employ hydrophobic down to resist water but NOT make it intended or otherwise impervious to water. Other manufacturers will employ WR shell fabrics for greater water resistance. For example Feathered Friends has options of shell fabrics that have varying degrees of WR. http://featheredfriends.com/fabrics/
Some UL cottage manufacturers like Enlightened Equipment and Mountain Laurel Designs may offer sleeping bag/quilt fabrics with a DWR either or BOTH in their down versions or synthetic(Climashield) versions and with their treated hydrophobic down versions or use these fabrics in areas of their quilts having a higher risk to water.
https://support.enlightenedequipment.com/hc/en-us/articles/226227588-Fabrics-Insulation-Design
https://www.mountainlaureldesigns.com/shop/product_info.php?products_id=133 Note the 3X DWR application.
http://www.mountainlaureldesigns.com/fabric.php
Just Bill
09-14-2016, 08:59
Is there a way to treat a down filled sleeping bag to make it resist water?
I am assuming this is for an existing bag (you already own) and not a new purchase.
New- yes treated downs are available- but the jury is mixed on that.
Existing bag- It is fine to use a surface applied DWR to reduce some mist or light splash under a tarp.
There is not an aftermarket wash in that I would trust to "convert" your untreated down to treated.
DWR is still breathable, so will not trap moisture in your bag.
It depends what your goal is here...
General protection prior to reaching good shelter- a garbage bag, WP stuffsack, or trash compactor would be your best bet.
Using a light tarp or cowboy camping (marginal shelter)- a splash bivy or true WPB bivy is better.
Basic resistance while setting up in the rain (minimal time exposure)- then DWR on the shell does the trick.
Is there a way to treat a down filled sleeping bag to make it resist water?
Treat the sleeping bag with one of these:
http://www.mountainlaureldesigns.com/shop/product_info.php?products_id=30
• Optional all bug net head- recommended for primary use in warmer climates and warmer seasons with night temps mostly above 45 degrees. This is also a better choice for very rainy and extra humid conditions and can lower condensation inside the bivy when you sweat or are forced to wear damp clothes while sleeping.
http://www.titaniumgoat.com/Bivy.html
This not only protects the down but tweaks other characteristics of your sleep system i.e., added warmth, less need for an enclosed tent, could make a light wt les volume sleeping bag needed, etc