How and When to Care for Your Sleeping Mat

For dreamy slumber out there, a sleeping mat is the perfect companion. Follow our quick tips for easy care and maintenance of your sleeping mat, whether you're out there or at home.

1. Caring for your sleeping bag on the trail

When you’re hiking, we recommend carrying your sleeping mat inside your pack, preferably next to something soft. While lashing it to the outside of your pack seems like a great space saver, you run the risk of slicing your mat open (even in its storage bag!) as you brush up against a branch or set your bag on a rocky surface after a tough incline.

Designate a spot in your bag that’s away from water (imagine a soaked mat — the horror!) and sharp tent poles and you'll be counting sheep in no time. When you’re ready to spread it out, take extra care to ensure there’s nothing sharp where you intend to put it.

Blow it up according to the instructions and never use a pressurised pump to inflate. If you’re leaving it inflated in your tent while you explore, make sure it’s not in the heat or direct sunlight.

2. How to care for your sleeping mat at home

When you’re back home, give your mat a once over. Did it come in contact with insect repellent, camp fuel, or sunscreen? If so, give it a quick wipe down with a damp cloth and gentle cleanser while it’s fully inflated and let it air dry. If you sleep directly on your mat, we recommend giving it a quick wash with a gentle cleanser after every trip, as body oils can break down the materials faster, too.

Store your mat in a dry room out of direct sunlight. Leave it unrolled and with the valve open. If you’re struggling to find a good spot to store a fully unrolled mat, try sticking it under your bed, behind a bookshelf, or in your closet.

Note that sleeping mat materials degrade over time, just like any other material. Harsh chemicals and improper storage can lead to quicker degradation so in the name of keeping your goods in rotation, commit to giving your sleeping mat a quick wipe down with a gentle cleanser once a season.

3. What to do if you need to repair your sleeping mat

In the unfortunate case that you need to repair your sleeping mat — have no fear! Our sleeping mats come with a quick repair patch and can be done in-field.

If the leak is obvious, clean the area with an alcohol-based cleaner, let it dry, and apply the patch. Wait the allotted time so the patch fully sets.

If the leak is less obvious, you’ll likely need to wait until you’re home to submerge your mat in soapy water and hunt down the source of the bubbles. Once you find that — you’ve found your leak! Make sure to allow your mat to dry and follow the steps above on how to properly store your mat to make sure it doesn’t hold excess water.

Watch our handy video on how to repair your sleeping mat

If your repair kit needs a top up, shop here: