Not gonna bring them with me if they die permanently.

So if they die do they come back in the Dawnstar sanctuary?

This should be in the Hints & Spoliers section, BTW.

They are essential, so they wont die, even from you attacking them AFIAK.

Why should it be in the hint section?

I'm only asking if a certain follower respawns after death.

Its a normal game mechanic, no hint or cheat involved.

If you give them armor they won't have it when you pick them up again but they keep other stuff, pack em up, send em home

wait they are essential?
might have to use them then.