>>429657This
Always store insulating garments and equipment loose in their stuff sac, better yet, hand them or fold/roll them loosely and NEVER stack anything heavy on them. The fibers are like springs, and they will loose their elasticity/springyness if compressed for long periods of time.
I've slept in my Carinthia defence 4 for a full 7 months worth of nights total. Still as good as the day I bought it.
From your description of the bag and its storage, you have what effectively is a brand new bag.
Tips:
As soon as you set up your tent, unpack your sleeping bag inside and fluff it up. This gives maximum time for the springyness too do its work, maximizing the amount of air insulation between fibers. The technical term for this is 'loft'. The better the loft, the warmer and more comfortable night's sleep.
When you wake up in the morning, unless you are breaking camp, fluff up your sleeping bag, and if at all possible, bring it outside to hang and air out for the day. This reduces moisture, odour, fungi/bacterial growth and improves loft.
Never store your bag in it's compression sack with the straps tightened. This is only for when you are on the move. Wash according to instructions, so many people don't read the lable. It's there for a reason.
Follow this guide and your bag will last decades of consecutive out time.
No sense in buying expensive equipment and having to replace it every couple years due to neglect.
Pic unrelated.
