How to Wash a Backpack

Backpacks, whether for travel or school, go through a lot of wear and tear. They also can collect a lot of germs! Just think about where it’s been—under the airplane seat, on the school bus or even just the simple outdoors can be breeding grounds for bacteria and stains. Proper care and cleaning will not only keep your backpack from looking shabby, but will also expand its lifespan. Here’s how to wash a backpack a few different ways.

How to Wash a Backpack 2 Ways

The first step is to check the care tag or manufacturer instructions for washing your backpack. Certain brands might recommend hand washing over machine washing, especially if the backpack has any leather or suede components, or delicate embellishments. Backpacks made of canvas, polyester or nylon are usually safe for the washing machine.

You’ll need the same tools whether you are machine or hand washing:

Tools

• Soft bristled brush
• Microfiber cloth or sponge
• Stain remover
• Gentle laundry detergent
• Towel

Machine Washing a Backpack

Step 1: Empty the backpack

Empty the backpack completely of all contents. Be sure to open every pocket and zipper to ensure everything has been removed. Turn the backpack upside down and shake to remove any crumbs or other debris.

Step 2: Brush off dirt

Use a soft bristled cleaning brush to gently brush the entire exterior of the backpack to remove excess dirt.

Step 3: Spot treat

For noticeable stains, apply a stain remover or a small amount of detergent directly to the stain and scrub with a cloth or sponge. Allow the stain remover to sit for about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Machine wash using mild detergent

Wash the backpack in cold water on the delicates cycle. Use only a small amount of gentle detergent. If the backpack has a lot of extra straps or zippers, you can place it in a laundry bag to prevent tangles.

Step 5: Air dry

Heat can damage a backpack, so air dry instead. Pat it with a dry towel to remove any excess water, then hang or lay flat to dry.

Hand Washing a Backpack

Step 1: Empty the backpack

Empty the backpack completely of all contents. Be sure to open every pocket and zipper to ensure everything has been removed. Turn the backpack upside down and shake to remove any crumbs or other debris.

Step 2: Brush off dirt

Use a soft bristled cleaning brush to gently brush the entire exterior of the backpack to remove excess dirt.

Step 3: Spot treat

For noticeable stains, apply a stain remover or a small amount of detergent directly to the stain and scrub with a cloth or sponge. Allow the stain remover to sit for about 10 minutes. Continue on to the next step to fully submerse the backpack in soapy water. If the backpack is delicate, stop at spot treating. Rinse away the stain remover with a damp cloth.

Step 4: Hand wash

Fill a large basin or sink with lukewarm water and a small amount of gentle detergent. Submerse the backpack in the soapy water and gently agitate with you hands. Use a sponge or cloth to scrub the backpack both inside and out while it’s in the water.

Step 5: Rinse and air dry

Empty the soapy water and fill the sink or basin with clean water to rinse the backpack. Repeat as needed until all the soap is gone. Gently squeeze the backpack to remove as much water as you can, then pat with a dry towel. Hang or lay flat to dry.

Tips for Washing Your Backpack

• How much you use your backpack will determine how often you should wash it. But generally we recommend brushing and wiping down your backpack monthly, and giving it a full wash about every three to four months.
• Consider spraying your backpack with Scotchgard Fabric Shield to protect it from stains and make it easier to wipe clean.
• For sticky zippers, try this highly rated zipper cleaner and lubricant.