With such basic equipment, backpacks can be incredibly difficult to keep clean. Not only do we put them through a lot (from everyday school life to strenuous hikes), but the combination of materials and sizes can make them difficult to clean.
The easy answer would be to empty it and throw it in the washing machine, but that's not always the best solution if you want to maintain the look and performance of your bag.
Here, cleaning experts and bag manufacturers explain how to tell whether or not you can wash a backpack in the washing machine, and share their best backpack cleaning tips to keep them in top condition.
Can backpacks be washed in the washing machine?
In general, most backpacks can be put in the washing machine, says Matt O'Connor, co-founder and CEO of NoScrubs.io Laundry Delivery , but it depends on what the bag is made of.
He explains: "Most backpacks can be machine washed, but it depends on the material. Canvas, nylon, and synthetic fabric backpacks are usually safe. Leather or bags with lots of decorations? Wash them by hand.
(Image credit: Miele)
Special backpacks, for example for hiking or trekking, are best washed by hand. However, Tys Sniffen, founder and bag designer of Idea Mountain , continues: "Or you have a waterproof material that you can machine wash." That doesn't help, or you have a waterproof material, meaning it was made with a waterproof material chemical soaked.
"Washing a backpack reduces its water resistance over time by removing the chemicals that have seeped into it. These chemicals are harsh, but you can buy more and spray more if you want."
(Image credit: Xenlumen via Getty Images)
With these differences in mind, here's how to properly wash backpacks, both by machine and by hand .
1. Check the materials of your bag
Before washing your backpacks, it is important to first check the washing symbols on the care label. This usually lists the materials used in the bag and any special features you need to take into account when washing it.
It's usually in your pocket. So look in the little pockets until you find it. If in doubt or if the label is missing, remember to wash your hands for safety reasons.
2. Wash in the washing machine
"If your bag is machine washable, start by emptying the bag and removing any loose straps or compartments," begins Eliana Coca, cleaning expert and owner of EC House Cleaning .
"Next, wash the backpack on a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent," she suggests. "It is best to air dry to avoid heat damage. For stubborn stains, pre-treat the area before washing and check the backpack after washing to ensure the stain has been removed."
"It's worth noting that just because a bag can be washed in the washing machine doesn't always mean you should, especially if you want your backpack to last and look good," adds backpack designer Tys Sniffen .
"Washing machines use an agitation and spin action that will almost certainly catch a corner of the backpack and make it look like it has been dragged across the street," he warns. "Not to mention all the straps and buckles that could fly off."
If this affects you, consider washing your hands or, as cleaning expert Matt O'Connor recommends, placing the backpack in an old pillowcase to keep all the straps in place and protect the material.
If you choose to machine wash your backpack, wash cold on the machine's gentlest setting with a mild detergent to keep your bag in pristine condition and prevent the material from shrinking or melting the adhesives used on the bag.
3. Hand wash
Like washing hats without damaging them , washing backpacks by hand takes more time and effort than washing in the washing machine, but often extends the life of your item and gives it a better appearance than putting it through a regular wash cycle undergo. which may wrinkle or warp.
"Almost any material backpack can be cleaned with mild soap, warm water and a soft-bristled brush. A hand-sized brush would be ideal, but toothbrushes also work," says backpack designer Tys Sniffen.
Then let it dry in the sun, but don't leave it outside for several days as natural sunlight can fade the fabric (which is a good way to remove stubborn stains ).
4. Clean regularly
Our backpacks tend to be a lot dirtier than we think, so regular cleaning helps keep them in tip-top condition, reminds cleaning expert Eliana Coca:
"Backpacks collect dirt and germs through use. Regular cleaning is therefore important for hygiene and to prevent the formation of mold or bacteria. I recommend washing backpacks at least two to three times a year or when they are visibly dirty. For heavy use, once a month is a good rule of thumb.
Frequently asked questions
How do I clean a smelly backpack?
If your backpack smells bad, empty it, vacuum up the dirt, and then fill it with a cup of baking soda, such as Arm and Hammer Pure Baking Soda, available at Walmart . It is ideal for absorbing odors and cleaning many things around the house .
Close the backpack and let it sit for 24 hours to absorb and neutralize strong odors. Then empty the baking soda from the bag into a trash can, vacuum again, and wipe the bag with a cloth dampened with water and a few drops of mild detergent.
If you don't want to wash your backpack in the washing machine but want to give it a quick freshen up without scrubbing, consider using a steam cleaner to kill bacteria and neutralize odors.
First, empty the backpack and vacuum the inside to remove dust, crumbs, and dirt. Then turn the bag over. Spray the inside, let it dry, then turn the bag over and spray the outside before letting it dry in the sun.
For more cleaning tips, check out our laundry guide.
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