Your backpack goes everywhere with you. It sits on dirty floors, gets stuffed in lockers, and braves the rain. Eventually, it collects enough grime, crumbs, and odors to become a problem.
You are probably wondering how to wash a backpack in the washing machine without ruining it. The process is actually quite simple, provided you follow the right steps.
We put together a six-step guide to take your bag from grimy to good as new. Let’s get that knapsack fresh again.
Key Takeaways
- Always check the care label; avoid machine washing leather, suede, or vinyl.
- Empty all pockets and vacuum the interior to remove crumbs and debris.
- Wash on a cool, gentle cycle using a mesh laundry bag to protect straps.
- Never use a tumble dryer; air dry with pockets open to prevent mold.
Can You Put a Backpack in the Washer?
The big question: is it safe to machine wash a backpack?
For most standard bags, the answer is yes. Backpacks made from nylon, canvas, polyester, and cotton generally handle machine washing well.
However, there are exceptions you need to watch out for.
Avoid the washing machine if your bag features:
- Leather or suede trim: Water can warp and stain these materials.
- Vinyl or plastic: These can crack or melt in the machine.
- Internal frames: Common in hiking packs, these will damage both the bag and your washer.
- Waterproof coatings: Aggressive cycles can strip the sealant (check the label for specific instructions).
Always check the care label inside the main compartment. If it says “Hand Wash Only” or “Dry Clean Only,” listen to it.
Take Note
If your bag has a USB charging port, you must remove the battery pack and cables before washing. If the port is built-in and cannot be removed, you must hand wash the bag carefully to keep that component dry.
Can You Put a Backpack in the Dryer?
Once the bag is clean, you might be tempted to toss it in the dryer to speed things up. Don’t do it.
A tumble dryer is a backpack’s worst enemy. The intense heat can melt zippers, warp plastic hardware, and shrink the fabric. It can also degrade the waterproof lining, leaving your gear vulnerable to rain later on.
You should always air dry your backpack.
How to Wash a Backpack in a Washing Machine
If your care label gives the green light, let’s get that bag cleaning. This method is efficient and deep-cleans the fabric fibers.
- Time: 45 minutes (plus drying time)
- Difficulty: Easy
What You’ll Need:
- Vacuum cleaner
- Microfiber cloth
- Soft-bristled brush or toothbrush
- Gentle liquid detergent
- Stain remover (optional)
- Large mesh laundry bag or pillowcase
- Towel
- Drying rack
1. Empty and Vacuum the Bag
You don’t want to wash an old sandwich or a forgotten ink pen. Open every single pocket and zipper. Turn the bag upside down and shake it out over a trash can.
Once the big debris is gone, use a vacuum hose attachment to clean the seams and corners. Crumbs love to hide in the bottom crevices.
2. Prep the Hardware
Before the bag goes in, you need to secure the loose parts.
Follow this checklist to prevent damage:
- Remove detachables: Take off any carabiners, keychains, or removable straps.
- Cut loose threads: Trim any fraying threads near zippers so they don’t snag.
- Leave pockets open: Keep zippers unzipped so water can flow through freely.
3. Pre-treat Stains
Look for dark spots on the straps or the bottom of the bag. Apply a stain remover or a mix of detergent and water directly to these areas. Use a soft toothbrush to gently scrub the solution into the fabric. Let it sit for about 15 to 30 minutes to break down the grime.
4. Secure in a Laundry Bag
Never throw a backpack loose into the washer. The straps can wrap around the agitator or get caught in the door seal, causing tears.
Place the backpack inside a large mesh laundry bag. If you don’t have one, a standard pillowcase works perfectly, just tie the open end shut with a hair tie or rubber band.
5. Run a Gentle Cycle
Add a small amount of gentle detergent (about 1-2 tablespoons). Set your washing machine to a delicate/gentle cycle with cold water.
Hot water can cause colors to bleed and may damage the fabric’s integrity. Cold water is safe and effective.
Top Tip
If the interior of the bag is grosser than the outside, turn the backpack inside out before placing it in the mesh bag. This exposes the dirty lining directly to the water and agitation.
6. Air Dry Properly
When the cycle finishes, take the bag out and pat it down with a dry towel to absorb excess moisture.
Hang the backpack upside down on a drying rack or clothesline. Ensure all pockets are propped open to allow airflow.
Do not store the bag until it is 100% dry. Damp fabric breeds mold and mildew, which will ruin the bag you just worked so hard to clean.
How to Clean a Backpack Without a Washing Machine
If you have a hiking pack with a frame or a delicate material, hand washing is the safest route. It takes a little more elbow grease but protects the structure of the bag.
- Time: 30-45 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
What You’ll Need:
- Vacuum cleaner
- Soft-bristled brush
- Gentle detergent
- Bathtub or large basin
- Towel
- Drying rack
1. Empty and Vacuum
Just like the machine method, clear out the clutter. Shake the bag out and vacuum every pocket to remove dust and crumbs.
2. Fill a Basin
Fill a bathtub, deep sink, or large basin with lukewarm water. Avoid hot water. Add a tablespoon of mild detergent and swish it around until bubbles form.
3. Submerge and Scrub
Place the backpack in the water. Push it down so it is fully submerged. Use your soft brush or a cloth to scrub the fabric, paying extra attention to the bottom of the bag and the shoulder straps where sweat accumulates.
If the bag uses a mesh material (common on water bottle pockets), be gentle to avoid ripping the netting.
4. Soak and Rinse
Let the bag soak for 15 to 20 minutes. This allows the detergent to lift deep-set dirt.
Drain the dirty water and refill the tub with cool, clean water. Rinse the bag thoroughly. You may need to drain and refill the tub a second time. Squeeze the foam padding gently to ensure no soap suds are left inside.
5. Towel and Dry
Gently squeeze the bag to remove water, do not wring or twist it, as this can warp the shape. Roll it in a thick towel to press out moisture. Hang it to air dry in a well-ventilated area.
How to Remove Odors From a Backpack
If your bag looks clean but smells like a gym locker, you don’t necessarily need to wash the whole thing. Try these deodorizing tricks first.
- The Vinegar Spray: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Mist the interior and exterior lightly. The vinegar smell will dissipate as it dries, taking the bad odors with it.
- Baking Soda Bomb: Pour baking soda into an old sock, tie it off, and toss it into the main compartment. Leave it there for 24 hours to absorb moisture and smells.
- Sunlight: UV rays are a natural disinfectant. Open all the zippers and leave the bag in direct sunlight for a few hours (but not for days, as it can fade the color).
- Activated Charcoal: Place a small bag of activated charcoal inside the backpack. It captures odors without adding artificial scents.
Cleaning Special Material Backpacks
Not all bags are simple polyester. Here is how to handle delicate materials.
- Clear Plastic/Vinyl: These are popular for stadiums and schools. Do not machine wash them. Spray with a glass cleaner or soapy water and wipe down with a sponge. Dry immediately to prevent water spots.
- Leather: Never soak leather. Wipe off surface dirt with a dry cloth. Use a specialized leather cleaner followed by a conditioner to keep the material supple.
- Canvas: Canvas is durable but can shrink. Wash in cold water and reshape the bag while it is damp to ensure it dries correctly.
Tips for Keeping Your Backpack Clean
Prevention is easier than a full wash day. Use these habits to keep your bag fresher for longer.
- Use pouches: Keep pens, makeup, and snacks in separate zippered pouches. If something leaks, you only have to wash the small pouch, not the whole backpack.
- Weekly shake-out: Every Friday, empty the bag and shake it upside down. This prevents crumbs from building up and attracting bacteria.
- Wipe spills immediately: If coffee or juice spills, spot clean it the moment you get home. Dried stains are much harder to remove.
- Sanitize straps: The shoulder straps absorb the most sweat. Wipe them down with a disinfectant wipe once a week.
FAQs
How Often Should You Clean Your Backpack?
Deep clean your backpack once or twice a year, depending on how often you use it. For gym bags or hiking packs that get sweaty and dirty, you may need to wash them every couple of months. Spot clean visible stains as they happen.
Can You Wash a Backpack in the Washing Machine With Clothes?
Yes, you can, but use caution. The backpack straps can tangle with other clothes, and heavy hardware might damage delicate garments. It is best to wash the backpack alone or with sturdy items like old towels or jeans, provided you use a mesh bag for the backpack.
Can I Wash My Laptop Bag in the Washing Machine?
Usually, no. Laptop bags often contain high-density foam padding that can break down or shift in the washing machine. They also tend to have more metal hardware. It is safer to hand wash laptop bags or spot clean them to preserve the padding.
How Long Does It Take a Backpack to Air Dry?
It typically takes 24 to 48 hours for a backpack to dry completely. Thick padded straps and foam back panels take the longest. Keep the bag in a well-ventilated area or near a fan to speed up the process.
What Detergent Is Best for Backpacks?
Use a mild, fragrance-free laundry detergent. Avoid bleach or fabric softeners. Bleach can ruin the fabric color, and fabric softeners can leave a residue that degrades the material’s water-resistant coating.
Can I Wash a North Face or Patagonia Backpack?
Most nylon backpacks from brands like North Face or Patagonia can be washed, but you must check the specific tag. Generally, they recommend hand washing or using a front-loading machine on a gentle cycle with cold water. Never dry clean these bags as the chemicals ruin the coating.
Ready for Adventure
Whether you rock a vintage Jansport or a high-tech hiking pack, keeping it clean extends its life. Now that you know how to wash a backpack in the washing machine safely, you don’t have to carry around stains and smells anymore.
Just remember the golden rules: check the label, use cold water, and never touch that tumble dryer.
