Did your backpack go with you on quite busy excursions? Does it smell like spoiled food? Or is it just stained by the daily commute around the city? Whether you wash it by hand or in the washing machine, restore it to its former glory by reading the washing instructions label and following a few simple tips, so you can take care of it in the most correct way.
Steps
Part 1 of 4: Prepare the Backpack
Step 1. Remove the dirt on the outside
Use a damp cloth or brush to remove dust and debris so they don't mix with the water as you wash it. Do not rub, otherwise dirt and grease will penetrate the fibers of the fabric.
Step 2. Cut the hanging threads
They could hang around the hinges and straps, with the risk of getting caught or causing further damage. Cut them to prevent these areas from further ruining.
Step 3. Get your cleaning supplies
Depending on how dirty the backpack is, you will probably need to find a specific cleaner to pre-treat the stains. For example, you may need a degreaser or formulated to descale sticky substances. You may also need a toothbrush to clean various components of the pack.
Step 4. Check the dimensions
Backpacks have different shapes and sizes. Determine if yours can be hand washed or machine washed. You may also need to take it to the dry cleaners, if so indicated in the cleaning instructions.
Step 5. Empty it
Be sure to check any pockets where you may have forgotten loose change or small items. Don't risk washing your USB stick or losing any jewelry because you haven't thoroughly checked every compartment. If there is some dirt in the creases, remove it using the vacuum cleaner hose.
Leave the pockets open and turn the backpack inside out. Vacuum every inch of the inside surface
Part 2 of 4: Washing the Backpack in the Washing Machine
Step 1. Remove all accessories
Some backpacks have metal frames, straps or compartments that are added as needed. Remove the metal frame so as not to damage the washing machine. If it has removable straps and other accessories, be sure to read the label so you can clean them properly.
Step 2. Pre-treat any stains with a stain remover
Regardless of whether the product you intend to use is natural or industrial, do not use detergents that can fade or alter the colors of the fabric. Depending on the severity of the stain, you will likely need to soak the backpack a few hours before washing.
Take a look at the manufacturer's website or consult the specialized forums to understand which product is most effective on the spots formed on your backpack
Step 3. Follow the washing instructions
In most cases, the inside label of the backpacks recommends washing in the washing machine, selecting the program for delicate garments, in cold water. However, depending on the model and brand, hand washing is probably more suitable if it has jewelry inserts or decals that could be damaged in the washing machine.
Step 4. Put it in a laundry bag
If it's too big, use a pillow case to prevent straps or zippers from getting caught in the drum and damaging your backpack or worse, your washing machine.
Turn it upside down if it is too big to fit in a pillowcase or laundry bag. If you can, remove all straps, put them in another bag and wash them in the washing machine
Step 5. Make sure the drum is clean
Do not wash the backpack with other items that could fade and stain the rest of the load. You can also start a wash and rinse cycle with the drum empty to remove any detergent residue.
Step 6. Apply the detergent and wash
Choose a product for delicate clothes and pour in the recommended amount. Unless otherwise indicated, select a program for delicates in cold water and wash your backpack.
Some fabrics can be damaged with normal detergents or fabric softeners, so be sure to read and follow the manufacturer's instructions for the care and cleaning of your backpack
Step 7. Dry it naturally
Once the wash is finished, remove the backpack from the washing machine and the laundry bag and put it to dry. Keep it away from direct heat sources and hang it upside down to allow water to drain out of pockets and creases. Do not use the dryer as it may damage the fabric.
Part 3 of 4: Hand Wash the Backpack
Step 1. Fill the bathtub or sink
Depending on the size and fabric, you probably can't wash it in the washing machine. If it is very large, fill the bathtub with hot water; if it's smaller, you just need the sink.
Hot water can fade certain fabrics. Use hot or cold water according to the directions on the label
Step 2. Follow the washing instructions if you need to soak it
Sometimes the cleaning instructions advise against submerging it completely in water as the fabric may become faded or damaged. If you can't soak it, use a damp cloth or sponge along with the detergent.
Step 3. Add the detergent
Choose a product without fabric softener or harsh cleaning agents as they can damage some types of fabric, such as waterproof fabric. Consult the manufacturer's website or specialized forums to understand which products are most suitable and effective.
Step 4. Rub
Depending on the fabric, you can use a brush for stubborn materials with stubborn stains or a sponge for delicate fabrics. You can also clean the backpack using other tools, such as a soft-bristled brush or a non-abrasive cloth.
Focus on areas with obvious large spots. Use a toothbrush on stubborn stains and hard-to-reach spots. Embroidered and finely decorated areas require more attention, as dirt can penetrate the fabric more easily
Step 5. Dry the backpack
Dry it upside down, away from direct heat sources. Do not put it in the dryer as it could be damaged. Make sure it is completely dry before storing it, otherwise if it is damp, there is a risk of it becoming moldy.
Part 4 of 4: Taking Care of the Backpack
Step 1. Clean it regularly
Even if you don't have to wash it every day or even every month, you should wipe it with a damp cloth every now and then to prevent it from becoming a receptacle for dirt with daily use.
Step 2. Keep it away from water
Even though it is waterproof, some mildew may form if the fabric does not dry properly. Use a rain cover or even a plastic bag to make sure it doesn't get wet and the contents stay dry and protected.
Step 3. Close properly the food or liquid substances you put inside
When you are in a hurry and fill your backpack without paying attention, it happens that you spill yourself a drink or mash a sandwich. So, use suitable containers and make sure the lids and caps are completely closed to prevent the inside from getting dirty or smelling.
Step 4. Fill it up according to the instructions
Read the label to find out how much weight it can handle. Intelligently pack and wrap what you need to carry and avoid inserting objects that risk puncturing, tearing or damaging the fabric, such as knives or heavy loads with sharp edges. Wrap up sharp objects and pack them tightly to prevent them from moving freely.
Step 5. Follow the manufacturer's instructions
Backpacks are designed and tested for certain uses. Do not exceed the limits under which they are tested. However, remember that you get what you pay for, and if you have enough cash, you might want to buy a durable backpack made from sturdy material that requires little care. Whatever the amount you can afford, always treat it carefully.
Advice
- If you don't want to put it in the washing machine, take the vacuum cleaner and use a hose connection to remove the residue and dust from the inside.
- If you absolutely can't get it back on track, consider buying a new one.
- Read the label to make sure it is machine washable before placing it in the drum.
- Pay attention to the hinges to prevent them from rusting. Apply a colorless, grease-free silicone spray when the backpack is dry.
- Treat the backpack with a waterproofing spray to minimize stain formation. Spray it after washing it and put it to dry.
