The Best Way to Wash a Backpack, No Matter the Material
Product Care
A well-loved backpack is sure to get dirty over time. Here’s how to wash your backpack to keep it looking new.
Supplies
- Laundry detergent
- Stain remover
- Dish soap
- Cornstarch (optional)
- Leather conditioner (optional)
- Mild soap
Tools
- Cloth or toothbrush
- Small vacuum cleaner
- Mesh laundry bag or old pillow case
- Towel
If a backpack is doing its job, it’s going to get dirty, most likely. No matter if your backpack is your go-to gym bag, work tote or school book option, there's always the potential for spills, stains and smells. To keep your backpack clean, it’s important to know how to wash it properly for its material. Check out these tips to get your favorite backpack into its (former) pristine condition.
How to Wash Nylon Backpacks
- Empty it out completely, and remove any attachments or pockets. You can wash these items too, but it’s best to do so separately
- Unzip all zippers.
- Turn your backpack inside out and use a vacuum to remove any dust or debris.
- Treat stains first by using a cloth or toothbrush to apply non-bleach detergent or stain remover to the spot. Let the solution sit for about 30 minutes before gently scrubbing. Rinse the treated area with cold water before tossing it into the washing machine.
- Put your backpack into a large mesh laundry bag or old pillow case when it’s ready to go into the machine. All the attachments can go into a separate mesh bag.
- Wash on the gentle cycle with only a small amount of bleach-free detergent. Make sure to use cold water.
- Hang dry or put it in the dryer using a no-heat cycle like air fluff.
How to Wash a Canvas Backpack
How to Clean a Leather Backpack
- Empty the backpack first and remove any excess debris or dust by hand or vacuum.
- Remove any caked-on stains with a soft toothbrush. Avoid using water as this can further damage leather when not mixed with other cleaning agents.
- For other stains, combine warm water and dish soap. Dab the mixture onto the leather with a clean towel. Wipe away the soapy mixture with a fresh damp towel, and let dry.
- If the stain is oil-based, a degreaser or dry cornstarch can get things started, but you still may need to use the soapy cleaning solution to finish the job.
- Once clean and dry, use a leather conditioner on the exterior or leather sections of the bag to restore it.
On occasion, leather — and backpacks constructed of the material — can accumulate mold. If this happens, the backpack will have a distinct odor and looks discolored. To treat the mold, wipe it off first with a wet towel, and then do a deep cleaning with a leather cleaner.
How to Wash a Polyester Backpack
Tips to Hand Wash a Backpack
To hand wash, you’ll need a sponge or toothbrush and mild soap. First, be sure to empty all the pockets. Next combine lukewarm water and soap; either rinse the whole backpack or use a sponge to wet specific areas. Double-check the care instructions to learn if the backpack can be fully submerged in water or if it needs to be spot cleaned only.
Once your backpack is wet and soapy, sponge or brush stubborn areas. Once complete, air dry outside in indirect sunlight — with all compartments still open — for the fastest drying time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Do I Do If the Backpack Still Smells After Cleaning?
If you notice an odor even after you’ve washed it, mix white vinegar and water to eliminate the smell.
Fill a spray bottle with equal parts vinegar and water. Spray down the backpack and then let it completely dry. As the mixture evaporates, smells will leave with it. To rid of any residue vinegar smell, clean the backpack in the washing machine or with the hand washing method mentioned above.
Do Backpack Zippers Need to Be Cleaned?
Yes, but not all the time. Zippers only need occasional cleaning. Gently wash zippers with a little soap and lukewarm water to remove debris. Be aware to keep pressure light and gentle as anything more intense may remove any water-resistant coating.