Built to last. But only if cared for right.
From stormproof tents to expedition-grade sleeping bags, Gipfel gear is engineered to withstand the wild. But after weeks of trails, dust, or snow, proper wash care ensures your equipment stays reliable, functional, and safe for many more adventures.
Here’s how to clean and care for your tents and sleeping bags the right way:
Tent Care Instructions
- Shake It Off
- After each trip, pitch your tent once more in your backyard or indoors.
- Shake out dirt, sand, or leaves before storage.
- Spot Cleaning
- Use a sponge or soft cloth with mild, non-detergent soap.
- Wipe down muddy spots, zippers, and pole sleeves.
- Avoid harsh detergents or machine washing — these can damage coatings.
- Deep Cleaning
- Fill a tub with lukewarm water + non-detergent soap.
- Immerse the tent body and fly, gently agitate by hand.
- Rinse thoroughly.
- Drying
- Air dry completely before storage.
- Never use a dryer or direct sunlight for long hours — UV can weaken fabrics.
- Storage
- Store loosely in a cool, dry place.
- Avoid keeping tents compressed in their stuff sacks for months.
Sleeping Bag Care Instructions
- Regular Maintenance
- Air out after every trip.
- Store uncompressed in a large breathable sack or hang it.
- Spot Cleaning
- Clean only the dirty patches (collar, hood, footbox) with mild soap + sponge.
- This extends time between full washes.
- Machine Washing (for down or synthetic bags)
- Use a front-loading washing machine only.
- Cold water, gentle cycle, mild non-detergent cleaner (Nikwax/Granger’s recommended).
- Never use bleach or fabric softener.
- Drying
- Tumble dry on low heat with 2–3 clean tennis balls to restore loft.
- Ensure it’s completely dry before storage to prevent mildew.
- Storage
- Keep uncompressed in a breathable storage sack.
- Never store long-term in the tight stuff sack — loft and insulation will be damaged.
Why Wash Care Matters
Proper wash care isn’t just about cleanliness. It protects DWR coatings, keeps insulation loft intact, and extends the life of your gear — so your Gipfel tent and sleeping bag stay as tough on the trails as the day you got them.
Pro Tip from Gipfel
“Treat your gear like your climbing partner. Take care of it, and it will take care of you when the storm hits.”
