How to Clean a Backpack Based on 3 Different Materials

Learning the right way to clean a backpack helps eliminate germs and odors. Backpacks can easily get dirty, especially when used frequently or by children. You might find spills, leftover snacks, ink stains, or sweaty gym clothes inside. Read on for advice on cleaning your backpack to ensure it lasts longer, along with expert cleaning tips.

Before You Start Washing Your Backpack

Before diving into washing your backpack, inspect the care label, which is usually located in the main compartment. If the label advises against submerging the bag in water, use a damp cloth and a mild detergent to clean specific spots. In the absence of a care label, test a small area of both the interior and exterior before proceeding with the full wash. Also, follow these steps:

• Empty your backpack. Remove all items from every pocket and compartment. Store the contents in a plastic bag to keep them together during the cleaning process. Replace or clean anything that's excessively dirty before putting it back in your freshly washed bag.
• Use a handheld vacuum. Clear out crumbs and dust from the corners and pockets using a vacuum cleaner. Shager also suggests using an air blower for keyboards for extra precision.
• Use a makeup brush. For tough dirt, try a clean makeup brush. The soft bristles gently loosen debris without harming the fabric, according to Shager.
• Prepare the bag for washing. If your bag has a metal frame, remove it first. Leave all pockets open and snip off any loose threads near zippers to prevent them from snagging during washing.
• Pre-treat stains: Apply a small amount of stain remover to any visible stains with a clean cloth. Let it sit for 30 minutes before washing the entire bag.
• Use a laundry bag. Turn your bag inside out or place it in a pillowcase or laundry bag to avoid straps or zippers catching on the washing machine—and to protect the interior walls.

How Often Should You Wash a Backpack?

Backpacks should be washed once or twice a year. School breaks, such as winter and summer vacations, or after returning from a trip, are ideal times to give your bag a thorough clean. Treat stains promptly to prevent them from setting in. A quick interior cleaning every two weeks can help remove crumbs, loose items, and other debris. Additionally, deodorize your backpack every few months or whenever you detect an unpleasant smell.

Backpacks that are used as gym bags for exercise gear or workout clothes may require more frequent cleaning because of sweat and body odors. If you use your backpack outdoors for hiking or other activities, it's advisable to clean it after every use, wiping off any dirt, bugs, or environmental factors like rain, mud, or snow that could soil it.

What You Will Need

Tools and Equipment

Required Materials

• Various cleaning tools and materials

General Instructions

• Follow the recommended steps carefully for optimal results

How to Properly Wash a Backpack in the Washing Machine

Most nylon or canvas backpacks can be safely washed in a machine. However, if your bag has leather accents, avoid machine washing it.

Use the Gentle Cycle

Add a small amount of mild detergent and select the lightest cycle with cold water. If the bag gets tangled during the spin cycle, pause the machine and spread it out to ensure a thorough clean and prevent an unbalanced load.

Let the Bag Air Dry

Leave the zippers fully unzipped and hang your backpack upside down to air dry. Shager suggests, 'We recommend line drying because tumble drying can damage the padding and lead to corner ruptures.' If possible, dry it outside to let any lingering odors fade away. Make sure it’s completely dry before putting it to use.

How to Wash a Backpack by Hand

If your backpack is made from materials that can't be machine-washed, a traditional hand wash will do the job just fine.

Scrub the Backpack

• Fill a basin with roughly 6 inches of lukewarm water. (Avoid hot water, as it can harm the fabric's color.) Add a small amount of mild laundry detergent.
• Use a soft brush or cloth to scrub the bag, focusing on especially dirty spots. Don't forget to turn the bag inside out and clean the interior as well.

Rinse the Bag

• Empty the dirty water from the basin, then refill it with 6 inches of fresh, cool water.
• Rinse the bag thoroughly and give it a good wring-out.
• Wrap the bag in a thick towel to absorb any excess moisture.

Air-Dry the Bag

Let the bag dry completely in the open air. Keep the zippers unzipped and hang it upside down. If possible, dry it outdoors to help any lingering odors fade away. Ensure the backpack is fully dry before using it again.

How to Clean a Clear Backpack

Clear backpacks are now a must-have for events like sports games, concerts, and at certain schools for security reasons. However, the transparent plastic can quickly become cloudy and dirty. The cleaning process for a clear backpack is quite similar to that of other types of bags.

Wash With Soapy Water

Fill a container with warm water and add a little dish soap or laundry detergent. Use a washcloth to clean the clear backpack.

Rinse the Bag

Rinse the bag thoroughly to help remove the dirt. If there's still sticky residue or a lot of mess, you may need to rinse it a second time.

Air-Dry the Bag

Use a clean, dry towel to blot off excess moisture from the backpack, then hang it upside down to let it air-dry. Do not use it until it is fully dry.

How to Clean a Leather Backpack

Like other leather products such as shoes and clothing, leather should not be washed in the machine or cleaned by hand with soap and water. Instead, you'll need a proper leather cleaner or conditioner.

Use a Leather Cleaner or Conditioner

Apply a small amount of high-quality leather cleaner or conditioner (saddle soap is also an option) to a damp cloth and gently rub away any dirt. It's a good idea to test the cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the leather or alter its color.

Wipe Away Additional Residue

Using a fresh, damp cloth, wipe away any remaining grime or residue from the conditioner. Be sure to wipe in various directions to avoid repeatedly going over the same spot.

Air-Dry the Bag

Let the backpack dry at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. Drying it in direct heat could cause the leather to become brittle and crack.

Tips for Keeping a Backpack Clean Longer

In addition to a thorough wash, there are several ways to keep your backpack cleaner for longer, many of which only require a few minutes before or after use.

• Empty your backpack every few weeks and give it a good shake to remove crumbs, debris, and any loose items that have collected at the bottom.
• Store the backpack in a dry, well-ventilated space to prevent odors and mold growth.
• Use a fabric protector like ScotchGuard to shield the fabric from spills and stains (note: do not use on leather backpacks).
• Regularly sanitize your backpack with a disinfectant (unless it’s leather) to keep it fresh without frequent washing.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Do backpacks shrink in the dryer?

  Yes, placing a backpack in the dryer can cause it to shrink. The heat may also damage other materials on the bag, such as nylon straps, labels, and decals. It’s always best to air-dry your backpack to prevent material damage.