PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • December 14, 2024
Now that winter is here, it's important to store your gear properly. Check buckles and straps, and repair or replace tears and other damage. Check your tent walls, mesh and rainfly for tears and holes; repair as needed with tape or mesh patches. Wash your sleeping bag in a front-loading machine on the gentle cycle using a down cleaner product. Dry the bag on low and throw in three or four tennis balls to break up the down clumps. Your air mattress should be gently wiped down with a damp sponge or cloth and a dab of liquid dish soap. Let it dry and then stow loosely rolled up. Gently scrub your boots using warm water and dish soap. Air dry of the sun. Remove the insoles, rinse and dry. Treat boots with a waterproofing wax for leather. Clean and dry your cook kit. Disinfect your hydration bladder and drinking tube. Sort through the rest of your gear and organize it all. ~ Carey Kish