Take Care of Your Backpack. It Gets Dirty.
No matter how high the quality of your backpack, dirt and oils are inevitable when you're on the move. Proper cleaning and maintenance don't just keep your gear looking sharp – they allow your backpack to last longer. Here is our complete guide on how to wash a backpack.
How to Know When to Wash Your Backpack.
It’s not always easy to spot when your backpack needs a reset. Unless you’ve hiked through deep mud or spilled something, washing often stays off the radar. While the oils from your hair, hands, and shoulders can accumulate over time, they are soaking into the fabrics and are not always visible. The same goes for sweat and invisible grime from the subway floor or the overhead cabin.
Imagine only washing your hands when they look visibly dirty. Luckily, your backpack does not need to be washed nearly as frequently as your hands, but to ensure your gear stays sharp and the materials remain high quality, we recommend you wash your pack safely by hand, or in the washer at least once or twice a year.
Washing Your Backpack. Hand Wash or Machine?
The most important part when washing your backpack is to safely preserve the fabrics look. We will guide you through the best methods to help you choose the right approach for your pack:
- Cleaning by hand: The difference between a regular refresh and a deep wash.
- Washing in the machine: A Step-by-step guide for machine-safe materials.
How To Wash A Backpack By Hand?
Washing your backpack by hand allows you to stay in control of the process from start to finish. Give your backpack a frequent refresh with a light wash, and an occasional total reset when needed.
What You Need.
Before you dive in, gather these essentials to ensure a smooth wash:
- Mild detergent: Choose a mild soap, and avoid all softeners.
- Soft brush: An old toothbrush or a soft dish brush is perfect for stubborn spots.
- Clean sponges & microfiber cloths: For wiping down interiors and mesh linings.
- Vacuum cleaner: For vacuuming the dirt in between the linings.
- A basin or bathtub: This needs to be large enough to fully submerge your pack in water.
- A mesh laundry bag: This is optional, but a great tip for the backpacks that can go in the washer machine.
Let’s delve into our step-by-step guide on washing your backpack with three different methods.
The Regular Light Wash. A Step By Step Guide.
Keep your backpack looking fresh and clean for every journey by following our guide for a frequent refresh.
- Clear out your pack by opening every compartment to ensure all your essentials are out. Flip around and give it a solid shake to remove loose debris, sand or forgotten crumbs from your latest adventures.
- Wipe down the interiors with a damp, clean sponge (no detergent), and go over all the linings. This removes the surface dust.
- For stains, use a small amount of neutral soap on your sponge and scrub the stain with light, circular motions. If you are unsure whether or not the materials can handle soap, test it on a less visible spot first to avoid damage.
- Rinse off all the soap using a cloth with cold water. Make sure you do not leave any detergent residue, as this can harm the materials.
- Airdry your backpack completely to prevent mold, and reorganize your essentials. Your pack is ready for its next adventure.
The Deep Wash. Step By Step Guide.
Make your backpack look new with a deep clean. While we recommend to reserve the deep wash for once or twice a year, it is actually a very straightforward process. Follow these easy steps on how to wash your backpack for the total reset.
Step 1. Empty And Shake Your Backpack.
Empty all the pockets of your backpack and detach any removable components. Turn your pack upside down and shake to remove surface dirt. Vacuum the lining of your backpack, and inside the pockets if needed.
Important: Read the care instructions label and follow them before going forward with the next steps.
Step 2. Soak In Lukewarm Water.
Fill a basin or bathtub with lukewarm water and add a little bit of mild detergent. Let your pack soak in the water while using a soft brush or your hands to clean different parts of the inside and outside. Be gentle and make sure all parts of your backpack are covered in soapy water. Wash the loose components removed in the first step individually.
Step 3. Focus On The Important Parts.
Keep an extra focus on the back panel and shoulder straps while cleaning – these are the primary contact points where oils and sweat accumulate. Don't forget to scrub the base of the pack where it meets the ground, and always handle mesh details with care.
Pro tip: Remember to protect the zippers. Invisible salt or grime can cause harm to the zippers. While your pack is soaking, use a soft toothbrush to gently scrub along the zipper tracks, as this ensures the zipper runs smoothly for years to come.
Step 4. Rinse Off And Air Dry.
Drain the soapy water and refill it with fresh, cold water. Rinse your backpack in the cold water as many times as needed to eliminate any traces of soap.
When your backpack is no longer giving off residue, hang your pack to drip dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Make sure it is completely dry before using it on your next journey.
Store Your Backpack Correctly.
While there are good ways to wash your backpack, it is just as important to store it correctly when it is not in use. Ensure your backpack is kept in a dry, well-ventilated environment. Avoid damp areas at all costs, as moisture can lead to mold growth and a musty smell within the fabric.
If you are storing your backpack for a longer period, choose a cool, dry, and dark place.
By storing it right, you ensure your pack is ready to go for the next journey.
Machine Wash Your Backpack. Step by Step Guide.
Some backpacks can go into the machine, such as some packs made of nylon or polyester. If your specific model is cleared for machine washing, follow this guide to ensure a thorough, efficient, and safe washing process.
- Protection first. Empty your backpack completely and shake out any excess dirt. To protect both your pack and your machine, detach any removable metal components or hardware. We recommend placing your backpack inside a large mesh laundry bag to prevent straps or buckles from getting caught or damaged during the cycle.
- Gentle settings. Use a small amount of mild detergent. Set your machine to a gentle cycle, ensuring the water temperature does not exceed the limit stated on your care label. If this is the first time you are washing your pack, wash it separately to avoid any potential color transfer.
- The rinse. Once the cycle is complete, perform an additional rinse. It is vital to remove all detergent residue to preserve the fabric’s finish and prevent staining.
- Never use a tumble dryer. Hang your backpack to air dry in a well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight, as extreme heat can compromise the integrity of the materials and cause colors to fade.
Db High Quality, Premium Fabrics.
We ensure our materials perform at the highest standards, balancing durability with responsibility. By monitoring every product's environmental footprint, we stay in control of the long-term safety and quality. Streamlining our material selection across the entire collection allows us to focus on fewer, higher-performing, and certified textiles that are engineered to last a lifetime.
Explore Our Backpacks.
If your current pack has seen one journey too many, it might be time for an upgrade. Explore our selection and find your next travel companion here.
- Backpacks – Engineered for your lifestyle with a range of styles and design.
- Duffel Bags – Expansive storage for greater adventures.
- Roller Bags – Seamless travel with durable and functional roller bags for every journey.
To Sum It Up.
Whether you want a quick weekly refresh or a deep seasonal reset, the goal remains the same: keeping your pack fresh for whatever comes next.
The golden rules of washing your backpack:
- Air dry only: Keep it away from the tumble dryer and direct sunlight.
- Gentle is better: Hand wash whenever possible to protect the materials.
- Store it right: Dry, cool, and dark to avoid mold and fading.
Treat your backpack with care, and it will remain your most reliable travel companion for years to come. Now, pack your essentials and get ready for your next journey.
Read Our Other Guides.
Your Questions Answered.
When does a backpack need to be washed?
We recommend a light wash every few months and a total reset once or twice a year. However, if you encounter mud, spills, or visible stains during your journey, we suggest cleaning it immediately.
Can you wash your backpack in the machine?
While some bags are suited for the washer machine, most high-quality materials cannot go in the washer. Always read the care instructions inside your pack carefully before washing it.
If the label is missing or unclear, the golden rule is simple: wash it gently by hand. Heat and detergent can compromise the structural integrity and coatings of your gear.
How can I get rid of stains on my backpack?
Spot-treat stains as soon as possible for the best results. Apply a stain remover or a small amount of mild soap directly to the area. Gently work the soap into the fabric using a soft cloth or your hands. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to break down the grime, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
