How to Wash a Backpack in 5 Steps | Whirlpool (2024)

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How to Wash a Backpack in 5 Steps | Whirlpool (12)

Backpacks and bookbags can get dirty or stained over time, whether they’re loaded up with school supplies, hiking gear, or function as your daily carryall. When it’s time for a deep clean once or twice a year, you’ll want to spot clean stains, gently wash according to the care label instructions and properly air dry. Read on for step-by-step instructions for how to hand wash or machine wash a backpack.

How to Wash a Backpack in 5 Steps | Whirlpool (13) How to Wash a Backpack in 5 Steps | Whirlpool (14)

How to wash a backpack by hand

Hand washing is the safest method to clean bookbags or backpacks (the same goes for washing baseball capsor cleats). Some bags—especially hiking packs—have protective coatings that could break down in the washer. If your bag is leather, leather-trimmed or has decorations like iron-on patches or embroidery, you’ll want to stick with hand washing.

What you’ll need:

  • Mild (fragrance- and additive-free) soap or detergent
  • Sponge or washcloth
  • Soft-bristled cleaning brush (like an old toothbrush)
  • Old towels

How to Wash a Backpack in 5 Steps | Whirlpool (15)

Step 1: Empty the backpack and brush off visible dirt
Open every pocket and compartment and remove all items, leaving pockets unzipped. Shake out the backpack to remove dirt or crumbs and brush off dirt and buildup on the outside. You can also use a vacuum attachment along the inner and outer seams. Remove any metal frames and detachable straps and hip belts.

How to Wash a Backpack in 5 Steps | Whirlpool (16)

Step 2: Read the care instructions label
Care labels are usually located inside the backpack. Follow the instructions for cleaning. If there isn’t a label, be sure to test the fabric in a less visible spot withabout ¼ teaspoon of detergent first to avoid fading or damage.

How to Wash a Backpack in 5 Steps | Whirlpool (17)

Step 3: Spot treat stains
Using a teaspoon of detergent mixed with lukewarm water and a soft-bristled brush or sponge, gently clean any visible stains.

How to Wash a Backpack in 5 Steps | Whirlpool (18)

Step 4: Gently wash the backpack in lukewarm water
Fill a sink, large basin or bathtub with lukewarm water and a tablespoon of mild detergent. If the backpack can be submerged (check the care label), place it directly in the water. Scrub both the inside and outside of the backpack with a sponge or washcloth. You can clean the sponge in the microwave once finished. Use an old toothbrush to scrub the zippers to remove any buildup.

How to Wash a Backpack in 5 Steps | Whirlpool (19)

Step 5: Rinse and air dry
If you’ve submerged the backpack, drain the soapy water and replace with clean, cool water to thoroughly rinse. If you’ve only used a sponge or cloth without submerging, soak the sponge in clean water and go over the backpack to remove any detergent. Use an old towel to gently pat away excess moisture, and hang up the bag to air dry. Never put a backpack or bookbag in the dryer, as the heat can damage the fabric and accessories like zipper pulls.

Maintenance tip:If you plan on applying protective finishes like waterproofing sprays, make sure to wait until your clean backpack is completely dry.

How to Wash a Backpack in 5 Steps | Whirlpool (20) How to Wash a Backpack in 5 Steps | Whirlpool (21)

How to wash a backpack in the washer

Basic school backpacks and bookbags made of nylon or canvas can usually be washed in a washing machine, but be sure to check the care label first.

What you’ll need:

  • Mild (fragrance- and additive-free) detergent
  • Sponge or washcloth and soft-bristled cleaning brush (like an old toothbrush)
  • Pillowcase or laundry bag
  • Old towels

How to Wash a Backpack in 5 Steps | Whirlpool (22)

Step 1: Empty the backpack and brush off visible dirt
Open every pocket and compartment and remove all items, leaving pockets unzipped. Shake out the backpack to remove dirt or crumbs and brush off dirt and buildup on the outside. You can also use a vacuum attachment along the inner and outer seams. Remove any metal frames and detachable straps and hip belts.

How to Wash a Backpack in 5 Steps | Whirlpool (23)

Step 2: Read the care instructions label
Care labels are usually located inside the backpack. Follow the instructions for cleaning. If there isn’t a label, be sure to test the fabric in a less visible spot withabout ¼ teaspoon of detergent first to avoid fading or damage.

How to Wash a Backpack in 5 Steps | Whirlpool (24)

Step 3: Spot treat stains
Using a teaspoon of detergent mixed with lukewarm water and a soft-bristled brush or sponge, gently clean any visible stains.

How to Wash a Backpack in 5 Steps | Whirlpool (25)

Step 4: Machine wash with a gentle cycle
Cut any loose threads around the zippers. Place the backpack inside a pillowcase or laundry bag to prevent straps or zippers from getting tangled or caught inside the washer. Add a small amount of mild detergent(fill to the first line of the detergent cap) and run a gentle cycle.

How to Wash a Backpack in 5 Steps | Whirlpool (26)

Step 5: Air dry
After the wash cycle is complete, use an old towel to gently pat away excess moisture, and hang up the bag to air dry. Never put a backpack or bookbag in the dryer, as the heat can damage the fabric and accessories like zipper pulls.

Explore Whirlpool® washers

From grass stains to food spills, messes happen, which is why proper laundry care is essential to managing your family’s busiest weeks. Browse the full collection of washers by Whirlpool brand to explore innovative laundry features like intuitive controls and the 2 in 1 Removable Agitator on select models.

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FAQs

How to Wash a Backpack in 5 Steps | Whirlpool? ›

It's best to wash backpacks alone on a gentle cycle. Adding it to a regular load of clothes could damage your other clothing due to the bag's straps and zippers. How long does a backpack take to dry? Due to a backpack's thick material, it may take a day (sometimes more) for the bag to fully dry.

Can you put a backpack in the washer and dryer? ›

It's best to wash backpacks alone on a gentle cycle. Adding it to a regular load of clothes could damage your other clothing due to the bag's straps and zippers. How long does a backpack take to dry? Due to a backpack's thick material, it may take a day (sometimes more) for the bag to fully dry.

Should I wash my backpack alone? ›

Wash it solo, not with a full load of clothes — if you don't have a large mesh laundry bag, you can put it inside an old pillowcase first to help contain the straps.

How to clean a backpack without washing? ›

Brush Down, Shake Out

Start by shaking out your bag to get rid of loose dust, dirt and crumbs. If you have a large, clean, soft bristle brush – like those used to clean suede shoes – gently brush the outside of your bag to knock off dust and dirt. If you don't have a brush, dust it off with a towel.

How do you clean a smelly backpack? ›

Spritz Some Vinegar

Almost every household has vinegar, and it is one of the easiest ways to de-stink anything. Add some vinegar to a spray bottle with a couple of drops of lime juice and spritz it on the straps of your backpack and any other place that is smelling particularly ripe.

Should you wash a backpack zipped or unzipped? ›

Open every pocket and compartment and remove all items, leaving pockets unzipped. Shake out the backpack to remove dirt or crumbs and brush off dirt and buildup on the outside.

Do backpacks shrink in the dryer? ›

Also, ensure you put it in a laundry bag or pillowcase to prevent straps from tangling or damaging the drum. After washing, remember, the best way to dry it is in sunlight, not in a dryer, to avoid any shrinking or warping.

Can you wash JanSport backpacks? ›

How to Clean a JanSport Backpack? Our backpacks are hand wash only. You can spot clean with a damp cloth or hand wash and then air or line dry. Please do not use detergent or bleach.

How long does it take for a washed backpack to dry? ›

A freshly washed backpack may take a day or longer to air dry, depending on the type of fabric and the environment where it is drying. Apply protective finishes like waterproofing sprays only after the backpack is completely dry and only if your bag allows for it.

Why does my school bag smell? ›

Even your kid's backpack can come home with sweaty, funky smells from school. Thankfully, it's easy to clean and refresh your pack without any hassle. Backpacks tend to get smelly when moisture and bacteria accumulate over time inside its interior.

How do you wash a solo backpack? ›

There are a variety of ways to clean your Solo case. For fabric cases, we recommend to first use a mild soap and water applied in small amounts. For tougher stains, we recommend a carpet cleaner. For leather bags, we recommend using leather conditioner to clean, protect, and polish the bag.

Can I put a backpack in the washer? ›

Some suggest you submerge a pack in a bathtub, others say do not submerge. In general, follow these guidelines: Never wash a pack in a washing machine or dry it in a dryer. Use lukewarm (not hot) water, and use your soft sponge or brush sparingly, so you don't harm any protective coatings on the pack.

How to dry a backpack fast? ›

Instead, simply pat the backpack dry with a towel inside and out, and hang it upside-down to air dry. If you're in a hurry, consider placing the damp backpack in front of a fan for a faster drying time.

Can I put my Jansport backpack in the washer? ›

To maintain the shape and finish of your bag, we recommend staying away from the washing machine. For most of our bags (like the Big Student and SuperBreak), use cool water with a soft damp cloth to wipe down the interior and exterior of your pack. Never use bleach or harsh detergents on your bag.

Can I use dish soap to wash my backpack? ›

Then, fill a sink or basin with warm water and a squirt of mild detergent, or a mild, plant-based dish liquid that helps break down grease and dirt. Be sure to use a scrubbing implement or gloves when soaking your backpack. Soak your backpack, gently cleaning the inside cavity and smaller compartments.

Can I put a Nike backpack in the washer? ›

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.

Can I put my North Face backpack in the washer? ›

Make sure your backpack is completely empty before you wash it, and you'll need a pillowcase. Put it inside of the pillowcase. That will not only protect the backpack, but the inside of your washing machine.

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