Person holding up a packed Klymit sleeping pad in front of their face while standing in a sunlit grassy field.

Spring Cleaning for Your Camping Gear

Spring is the perfect time to check in on your gear. After months of storage, or a full season of adventures, your camp gear may need a little attention before heading back outside. A quick spring clean not only keeps your gear fresh but also helps extend its lifespan so it’s ready for many more nights under the stars.

A close-up shot focuses on the round, flat-profile air valve of a turquoise Klymit inflatable sleeping pad with yellow trim. A person’s hand with a silver wedding band rests on the textured fabric nearby, and the black valve cap features an embossed logo and is flipped open to reveal a bright chartreuse green internal seal.

How to Clean Your Sleeping Pad

Your sleeping pad takes the brunt of outdoor adventures, picking up dirt, moisture, and wear along the way. A quick clean and proper storage will keep it performing well and ready for your next trip.

Cleaning your pad:

  • Mix 2 cups warm water with 1 tablespoon baking soda
  • Wipe the pad with a soft cloth
  • Rinse thoroughly
  • Do not use detergents or put in a washing machine or dryer

Drying your pad:

  • Wipe with a dry cloth
  • Lay flat in a well-ventilated room until completely dry
  • Keep the valve open while drying

Storing your pad:

  • Wipe off any remaining dirt
  • Store rolled up in its stuff sack or laid flat
  • Flip the valve to “deflate” and do a quick roll to push out most air
  • Unroll and then slowly roll tightly to expel remaining air
A person standing outdoors holds two bundled pieces of camping gear in their arms against a dry, grassy field background. On top is a small, tightly rolled turquoise Klymit stuff sack, and below it is a large, grey compressed cylindrical bundle with a detailed product label identifying it as a Klymit Wild Aspen 20-degree sleeping bag.

How to Clean Your Sleeping Bag

Your sleeping bag works hard to keep you warm and comfortable, but over time it can collect dirt, sweat, and oils. A proper clean at the start of the season helps maintain its loft and insulation for many nights under the stars.

When washing your sleeping bag:

  • Use a front-loading washing machine
  • Avoid agitator-style machines, which can damage stitching and insulation
  • Wash on a gentle cycle with cool water
  • Use a down-specific soap or gentle detergent designed for technical gear

When drying your sleeping bag:

  • Use the no-heat or air-fluff setting on your dryer
  • Check the bag periodically during the drying process
  • Add 2-3 clean tennis balls or a pair of clean sneakers once the bag is nearly dry to help restore loft

A top-down shot shows a person wearing a yellow brimmed hat and a blue plaid flannel shirt inflating a grey quilted Klymit pillow. They are holding the fabric tight with both hands while sitting cross-legged on a rust-orange inflatable sleeping pad with deep, V-shaped air channels.

How to Clean Your Camp Pillow

Your camp pillow deserves a quick refresh before the season starts. Most inflatable camp pillows can be cleaned using a similar method to sleeping pads.

For the pillow insert:

  • Wipe down with a cloth using warm water and baking soda
  • Rinse with clean water
  • Allow the pillow to air dry completely

For removable pillow covers:

  • Wash in a washing machine on a normal cycle
  • Let the cover fully dry before reattaching


Start the Season Ready

Taking a little time to clean and check your gear before your first trip can make a big difference once you’re out at camp. Proper cleaning and storage can help prevent mold, mildew, and damage, keeping your gear ready for the next adventure. A well-maintained sleeping pad means better comfort, longer gear life, and fewer surprises when it’s time to settle in for the night.

So give your gear a quick refresh, pack it up, and get ready to sleep outside again.

— Elif Acar
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