Storing your UQ

[Gresh]

I know for a down UQ you're supposed to store it hanging, but what about a synthetic? Will it hurt it to store it stuffed? I just got a New River, and need to know the best way to keep this thing fresh.

[pgibson]

Store it loose not stuffed. Best for all quilts, jackets, sleeping bags, basically any gear that has a loft to it down or synth is laid out flat not hung. Under a bed top of a closet, anyplace open and clean/dry with stable temps. Second best is in a large loose bag...think large laundry bag...again where it will stay clean and dry. I am in a very dry climate and use large Rubbermaid totes...like 50 and 60 gallon ones for my quilts and add a couple of large desiccate packets to the totes. More desiccate packets the more humid the climate your in.

[Gresh]

Thanks, Paul.

Right now I've got it hung in my workshop (closed up, but not climate controlled), but perhaps I should move it inside.

[Catavarie]

Well you got the answer from the horse's mouth there.

[pgibson]

Thanks, Paul.

Right now I've got it hung in my workshop (closed up, but not climate controlled), but perhaps I should move it inside.

Cool is fine as long as its dry. Keeping moisture/humidity out is one of the keys to long life in insulations. Down and synth will both mold/mildew if left to get wet. Dry your insulation really well after each trip and then store it where it will stay dry and loft and your gear will last a lot longer. Same goes for hammocks, tarps, packs, boots any and all gear.

[Gresh]

Short of going to the shoe store and stealing all the dessicate packets out of the shoeboxes, is there a good place to buy or a best type to use if I store it in a bin?

[Catavarie]

What about using a satchel of highly breathable fabric with rice it in? Or one of the freezer/fridge boxes of baking soda that have the removable sides? Should absorb moisture and the baking soda will help to neutralize any funk left over from your last hang.

[Gresh]

Oooh, I like that!

[JohnSawyer]

My KAQ came with a large laundry bag. Found more at the dollar store for $2. (Just kidding) most of my gear is in laundry bags now. I like the rice/baking soda idea for a bin, though... Home depot and others have dessicants designed for closets...

[pgibson]

I would be concerned with mice and or bugs trying to get in at any "food" type stuff stored with my gear. Not saying it would not get the job done just food for thought.

You can buy dedicate packets at most stores that sell travel stuff...Walmart usually has them with the luggage.