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How and When to Use a Fleece Sleeping Bag

If you’ve heard about fleece sleeping bags, but never understood quite what they are, then this article should help to explain what they are, and where and when they can be used. First, let’s look at what fleece sleeping bags are.

What Are Fleece Sleeping Bags?
As the name suggests, a fleece sleeping bag is simply an oblong sleeping bag that is made from polar fleece – similar to the jackets, hats and scarves that you see in outdoor stores. They’re not particularly well padded, and they aren’t in the least bit damp or water resistant. In fact, they’re a little like an envelope made from polar fleece.

Where to Use Fleece Sleeping Bags
Since they’re not weather resistant, and they’re not terribly warm, fleece sleeping bags should really only be used indoors. They’re good for using on the couch when watching movies, for infants, or for kids, for example at a sleepover. It’s not recommended that you use a fleece sleeping bag as is outdoors, unless you are sleeping somewhere particularly warm and dry. Even then, make sure you pack warm clothes, as any chill may make sleeping in a fleece sleeping bag a less than pleasant experience!

When You Could Use Fleece Sleeping Bags Outdoors
One instance where a fleece sleeping bag could come in handy outdoors is as a liner for another, warmer bag. Used inside a warmer sleeping bag, with an adequate cold resistance rating, a fleece sleeping bag could create a cozy sleeping experience.

Where to Get Fleece Sleeping Bags
A wide variety of stores, online and off, sell fleece sleeping bags. There are tiny versions, suitable for infants, in pretty pastel colors, or brightly colored ones for older kids. There are also adult fleece sleeping bags out there. Many outdoor stores do sell them, but so do home ware stores, so you should be able to pick one up without too much trouble. The good news is that they are also cheap!

Of course, if you have some time on your hands, and a sewing machine, you could also head off to a fabric store and buy fleece fabric in your own choice of colors and designs. A simple fleece sleeping bag that is made up of two rectangles and a draw string shouldn’t be too much trouble to make yourself. However, if you want a padded version, with features like a zipper, pockets and other accessories, then it’s better to rather save the time, and head to a store for one!

Caring For a Fleece Sleeping Bag
The good news about fleece sleeping bags, especially if they’re for kids, is that they’re really easy to care for. You can put them in the washer and dryer, as you would your other fleece items, and because they are so cheap to make or buy, it doesn’t matter if they don’t last all that long. When they’re worn out, you can simply make or buy another one.

If you want a quality bag however, it’s best to do your research, and to give the fleece sleeping bags a miss. You’ll be very glad you spent the extra money when the first cold night on your camping trip hits!