The issue of washing a backpack is related to the material from which each specific product is made, and has many nuances. It is important to understand how to wash a backpack correctly, because an inappropriate cycle will washing machine or low-quality powder used in washing can permanently damage the fabric.

Is it possible to wash a backpack in the washing machine found in every home? Yes, it is quite. An ordinary school backpack, made from materials without special impregnations, tolerates automatic washing well.

How to wash a backpack in a washing machine? To do this, the most contaminated areas are treated with a stain remover, after which the product is soaked in a weak solution of vinegar and baking soda for one and a half to two hours. This procedure will rid the backpack of excess odors generated during its use. After soaking, the item is placed in a special laundry bag or an ordinary unnecessary pillowcase to protect the straps, zippers and valves of the backpack from damage during the washing process, and loaded into the washing machine.

Automatic in the car

When choosing a washing mode in a washing machine, you should set the following values:

• delicate mode;
• minimum number of revolutions during spinning;
• low washing temperature (preferably 30 degrees).

The delicate mode will allow you to wash the backpack in the washing machine and will maintain the normal condition of the fabric and prevent color loss.

After washing is complete, remove the backpack from the pillowcase, turn out all the pockets, straighten it and hang it until completely dry.

Forbidden!

What to do if your backpack cannot be washed automatically? Usually information about this is indicated on the label.

Most of these products intended for tourists are made of fabric using special water-repellent impregnations. It is prohibited to wash such backpacks in a washing machine, so as not to wash out such impregnation and not to spoil the fabric itself.

In addition, washing in a machine poses the following risks:

• The fabric of the backpack is severely destroyed under the influence of the chemical components of any washing powder; after the first wash, the water-repellent properties of the fabric are noticeably reduced.
• The material of a travel backpack is usually quite dense and difficult to rinse after using washing powder.
• Aggressive components detergent, which may remain after washing, get on a person’s skin while wearing a backpack, thereby causing a rash and irritation on the skin.
• The heavy loads experienced by the fabric during machine washing eventually lead to the formation of holes in the backpack, which are very difficult to sew up yourself.

Manually

If machine washing is not possible, you should periodically hand wash and clean the backpack. Can I wash my backpack by hand? Yes, for this purpose the backpack is “disassembled” into its component parts, all detachable parts of the backpack are disconnected. Afterwards, warm water is poured into a regular basin and a soap solution is added. The backpack is soaked in a basin, pre-treated with a brush and soap.

After washing, the backpack is straightened and hung out to dry completely.

How often should you wash your backpack? The frequency of washing your backpack depends on the degree of soiling. You shouldn’t wait too long so that you don’t have to “fight” with old dirt and stains when washing. However, you should not wash your backpack too often, so as not to wear out its fabric.

A backpack is an integral attribute of school and student fashion. Adults often use this backpack, appreciating its convenience compared to bags and briefcases. Like all things, a once stylish product gradually becomes dirty. How to clean a backpack from dirt and make it look attractive again appearance, it wouldn’t hurt for everyone to know.

Is it possible to wash the backpack?

Manufacturers most often do not recommend doing this. Most models have a special waterproof impregnation, which gradually washes out when washed. The guaranteed protection of the contents of the backpack from rain and snow is lost, the fabric changes its appearance and becomes less dense. To answer the question about washing, you need to study the product label, which indicates the care parameters. It is located inside the backpack, most often in the largest compartment near one of the side seams. If it states that washing is allowed, go ahead. Just follow the temperature regime and other recommendations. If washing is prohibited, to maintain the appearance of your expensive exclusive or customized travel backpack, it is better to use dry cleaning services.

The product label indicates the care parameters recommended by the manufacturer.

How often to wash

There are two extreme options: not to do it at all or, conversely, very often. In the first case, the backpack accumulates dirt, which becomes more and more difficult to remove over time, and in the second, it wears out faster: the fabric wears out, the dye is washed out, and sometimes deformation occurs. Ultimately, the product loses its attractive appearance in a short period of time. Therefore, you need to wash a backpack as it gets dirty: for school, city and any that is used daily - once every 2-3 months, for a tourist - 1-2 times a year.

Preparing for washing

Correct preparation of the product will help you save time and effort and get better results:

1. Remove all contents from the backpack. A banknote forgotten in a secret pocket and washed will not add joy. And wet Notebook can make the job much more difficult if the ink bleeds and stains the fabric. So check your pockets carefully.
2. Disconnect the removable parts, unfasten the handles, straps, remove the rigid frame, if this can be done. A lightweight backpack is easier to wash.
3. Thoroughly shake out the product. If possible, vacuum the inside using a soft attachment. Remove dust and dirt from the outside with a brush.

Since regular washing, as a rule, does not remove stains, they must be removed in advance. To do this, you can use stain removers - Vanish, Selena Pyatnol, Antipyatin soap, etc. Most products are applied directly to the stain and left for 5-10 minutes, and then the product is washed. When choosing a stain remover, pay attention to what type of fabric it is applicable for and whether it is suitable for your backpack. Strictly follow the instructions for use and safety recommendations: some products can only be handled with gloves.

Do not use chlorine-containing bleaches: they can remove the color of the product and leave a white stain.

How to remove grease stains and heavy dirt

If a child hid a half-eaten pie in his backpack when the teacher entered the class, do not scold him. There are many proven ways to get rid of stains.

1. Sprinkle very fresh stains with salt, starch or talcum powder. They have good absorbent properties. Using your fingers, lightly rub the selected product into the fibers of the fabric and leave for 1-2 hours. If the substance is absorbed, add more. Remove the residue and wash the stain.

   Salt absorbs fresh dirt well

2. If it is already dry, slightly moisten it and apply salt or mustard powder. You can do both. Add some water on top to make a paste. Leave until completely dry, then brush and wash.
3. In case of severe contamination, ammonia will help out. Dilute 1 tablespoon in a glass of water and apply to the stain using a cotton pad. Leave for 2-3 hours. If the fabric dries out, re-wet with the solution and then wash.

   Heavy stains can be removed with ammonia

4. Any dishwashing detergent works great on greasy stains. Apply it to the stain, wait 5-10 minutes, brush it, and then rinse with water. Repeat the procedure if necessary.
5. To remove greasy and stubborn stains, use laundry soap. You can do this in two ways:
   

Removing ink marks

It’s easier to remove a fresh stain, but you’ll have to tinker with an old one. This can be done most effectively using alcohol or vodka:

1. Moisten a cotton pad generously with alcohol and apply to the stain. If it is old, leave it for 5 minutes.
2. Blot with cotton. Some of the dissolved ink will remain on it. Do not rub the stain; this will only smudge it further.
3. Repeat the procedure. Gradually the trace will decrease and disappear completely. But the process is long and laborious.

Do not use “colored alcohol” - any kind of tinctures or colored liquids. After removing the ink, a stain will remain on the fabric, which will also have to be removed.

Chewing gum and plasticine

Do not attempt to peel or scrape. The effect will be exactly the opposite: some part can be removed from the backpack, but the rest will go deep into the fibers and remain there forever. The easiest way is to freeze:

1. Pack your backpack in plastic bag and place in the freezer for several hours.
2. After the chewing gum (or plasticine) is completely frozen, it can be easily removed from the fabric.
3. Plasticine will remain on the material grease stain, which can be deleted using any of the above methods.

Unpleasant smell

Washing is usually enough to eliminate any unpleasant odors. But to be sure, you can soak the backpack for 15–20 minutes in a vinegar solution: half a glass per 5–6 liters of water. Sometimes the product smells unpleasant just after washing. Do the same procedure. Vinegar effectively kills all odors and disappears completely during drying.

If the backpack is basically clean and the only problem is the smell, you can do without washing. Place inside each compartment a small linen bag with salt or activated carbon tablets, which can be purchased at the pharmacy. Close the zippers and leave for 1-2 days. Activated carbon and salt absorb odors well.

Activated carbon absorbs odors well

Wet express cleaning of dust and debris

If dust and small debris have accumulated inside, and there is absolutely no time for complete cleaning, you can quickly put your backpack in order as follows:

1. Tap the body with your palm so that small debris that often accumulates in the seams ends up at the bottom of the backpack.
2. Open your pockets. Upper part Turn the main compartment outward as far as possible.
3. Turn the product upside down and tap it. It is better to do this outdoors or over a wide basin or bathtub.
4. If possible, clean your backpack with a vacuum cleaner. To avoid damaging the lining fabric, use a soft furniture pad.
5. Wipe the inside wet wipe If you have a school backpack, it is better to take an antibacterial one. Be especially careful along the seams; if necessary, change the napkins as they become dirty. It is important that the fabric does not become too wet, otherwise the backpack will have to be dried, and this will take time.

   Wet wipes will remove dust and germs from inside the backpack

6. Cleaning the outside depends on the material: if the upper is made of leather or moisture-resistant textiles, it can also be wiped with a damp cloth or cleaned with a foam spray, which is sold in shoe care departments. To quickly clean natural fabric that gets wet, use only dry cleaning with a clothes brush.

   Foam can be used to clean not only suede, but also leather, faux leather, and textiles.

7. Leave the backpack with the compartments open to “breathe” for a few minutes.
8. If necessary, treat the surface with a caring spray or cream ( natural leather and suede will thank you for your care).
9. Open the windows or go out of the room into the open air, spray a water-repellent spray on your backpack. Wait a little while for the smell to go away. It is recommended to perform this treatment several times a year.

   Impregnation protects the product not only from moisture. but also from dirt

Ways to wash a backpack

At home, any backpack can be cleaned in one of the following ways:

• machine washable;
• handwash;
• dry cleaning or using foam (suitable for all types, especially for products made of natural and artificial leather).

Machine washable

The method is suitable for soft backpacks that do not have metal or plastic frames and orthopedic pads:

1. Close all zippers, buttons, Velcro, and latches. This will protect the product from distortions and deformation.

   Before washing in a machine, close the zippers, buttons, and Velcro on the backpack.

2. Use a special laundry bag. This will protect metal and plastic fittings from scratches. If any part comes off, such as a sticker or decorative part of a zipper slider, it will also remain inside the bag and will not clog the drain hose.

   To avoid damaging the accessories during machine washing, it is better to put the backpack in a special bag

3. Set the mode according to the manufacturer's instructions on the label. If it is lost, select the mode delicate wash, wool or silk. For jeans and polyester, the maximum washing temperature is 40 o C, and the optimal temperature is 20–30 o C. Do not spin.

   It is better to wash backpacks in a machine, choosing a delicate cycle without spinning.

4. Choose liquid detergents. In cool water they dissolve faster and completely, are washed out more easily and do not leave unsightly streaks on the product. If you use powder, take a little less of it than the manufacturer recommends.
5. Be sure to add an extra rinse.

Handwash

Unlike machine, this is a more gentle option. Therefore, it is used for all products that can generally be washed, including for the care of tourist or frame backpacks.

The frame backpack is suitable for hand washing only.

Operating procedure:

1. Fill the bath with warm water - about 10 cm in height, so that the backpack is completely immersed in water.
2. For washing, use any detergent, but liquid is preferable. There are special cleaning products available for travel backpacks.
3. Immerse the item in water to moisten it.
4. Using a brush, sponge or just the palm of your hand, apply detergent to its surface and rub lightly. If the dirt is heavy, leave it to soak for 20–30 minutes. The period can be increased to two hours, but not longer, since water has a negative effect on any tissue.
5. Poke out the backpack using an up and down motion. You can rub it again with a brush or sponge if the stains are not completely removed.
6. Rinse the product thoroughly with a stream of water from the shower.

To protect the backpack from moisture, during subsequent use you can additionally treat it with a water-repellent impregnation, for example, Nikwax TX.Direct. To do this, again fill the bath with about 6 liters of water, add 50 ml of the product, stir well and immerse the product in the solution for 10 minutes, and then rinse in cold water.

Video: hand washing a school backpack

Wet cleaning with soap foam

The method is suitable for all products, including backpacks made of natural and artificial leather.

A leather backpack can be cleaned of dirt using foam

Operating procedure:

1. Dissolve the detergent in a bowl and whisk it well.
2. Using a sponge, grab the foam without touching the liquid and apply to the surface of the backpack.
3. Rub the areas of heaviest dirt.
4. And also use a sponge to rinse the product with clean water and remove any remaining foam.

How to dry a backpack

Since the product is not wrung out or twisted, water will flow from it immediately after washing. Therefore, at the first stage of drying, it is better to place it on a rack above the bathtub. You can use different options:

• put it on the dryer, and place a basin underneath for draining water;
• place a stool at the bottom of the bath and put a backpack on it;
• take it out into the fresh air (the process will take less time).

When most of the moisture has gone, you can dry it in two ways:

You can speed up the process using a fan heater. Direct a stream of air at the backpack: the breeze will disperse the water vapor accumulated near the wet item, and drying will take less time.

If it is not possible to dry your backpack outdoors, you can use a fan

For caring for backpacks different types No need to go to the dry cleaner. You can remove stains, wash the product and remove unpleasant odors yourself.

Stains, watercolor stains, dried dirt, wear and tear - all this is familiar to the mother of a schoolchild. The briefcase that the child carries every day is thrown on the floor, used as a seat or a ball during recess, and sometimes it is simply covered in paint. Only washing will help make your backpack look decent again.

First of all, remove all things from your backpack. Carefully check small pockets and folds: there may be a piece of paper or plasticine lying around. If these objects fall into water, they will spread throughout the fabric, severely damaging it.

Using a slightly damp cloth, clean the backpack from dust, stains and dried dirt. Hard, smooth fabric can be rubbed with a brush or sponge. Use a vacuum cleaner to clean out any debris that has accumulated in the furthest folds. Work with low power and the narrowest nozzle. If you can't reach something, use an old toothbrush.

Turn your empty backpack inside out. Small details such as removable pockets, straps or hanging decorations remove and set aside for now. Wash fabric items separately from the briefcase. Special briefcases with an orthopedic insert usually have a cavity where the frame is stored. It also needs to be taken out: you can’t clean it together with the backrest, because it will get damaged.

Stains

Before treating stains, read the information on the attached label. Most often it is located in the largest compartment, attached to the side seam. Permissible temperature range, aggressiveness of cleaning products, washing options - the manufacturer always writes about this. If there are no special instructions on how to wash, then before the main cleaning you can deal with stains.

How to remove stains:

• Test the cleaner on a small area. This way you won’t ruin the entire backpack in case of failure.
• If the test gives good results, then wet the dirty areas with warm water.
• Soak the fabric in stain remover and leave it for half an hour. You can scrub these areas with a soft brush. Do not use bleach; too much bleach will leave faded stains.
• After 30 minutes, scrub the cloth again and rinse it with clean water.

Immediately after removing the stains, proceed to the main procedure. The backpack should not have time to dry.

Wash

The best treatment option is to spin the backpack a couple of times in the washing machine. No amount of dirt can stand this. However, you will have to forget about this if the briefcase is made of thin mesh fabric or has non-removable frame elements. Cleaning in the machine is not designed for fragile parts.

How to wash school bag manually:

• Fill a large basin with warm water. The optimal temperature is 30 degrees, so the material will not fade and will be cleaned at the same time.
• Dissolve soap shavings or delicate soap in water baby powder. It is better to choose a hypoallergenic product that will not cause a rash in the child in case of poor rinsing.
• Scrub the entire surface of the backpack, paying special attention to the sides and back. For this it is better to use a sponge.
• Rinse the backpack several times in clean water. Gently squeeze it out after wrapping it in a large terry towel. The fabric will absorb water and the bath will not turn into a swamp.

Can I machine wash it if hand washing doesn't work? Yes, if the manufacturer does not prohibit it. Otherwise, do a few regular washes or take it to a dry cleaner.

Machine washable backpack:

• Place the briefcase in a pillowcase or a special laundry net.
• Place a mild cleaning agent in the compartment.
• Turn on delicate mode for half an hour.

A clean briefcase is dried in the open air. Choose shaded areas because direct sunlight can cause the material to fade. Before getting your child ready for school, check your backpack: it must be completely dry, otherwise mold or an unpleasant odor will appear.

As practice shows, there are practically no problems with washing ordinary everyday items, but when the need arises to care for non-standard items, difficulties arise. In previous articles we have already talked about this, and now we will continue the tourist topic with a review of backpack care.

In this article we will look at how to wash a tourist, student, or school backpack in a washing machine or by hand, and we will tell you what difficulties you may encounter in the process of carrying out such work.

Backpacks are produced in the most different forms and sizes

Automatic wash

Backpacks have long been part of our lives as a more convenient analogue of bags and briefcases. They are worn by tourists, schoolchildren, workers, athletes and many other people. However, gradually the backpack loses its appearance, gets dirty, gets scuffed, and to get it into shape, sooner or later you have to think about washing it.

At the same time, you don’t want to spoil such a useful and convenient thing, and there is always such a possibility during mechanical processing with water and detergent compositions. In addition, some backpacks are made of fabrics that cannot be washed at all. Therefore, you need to choose the right approach and then clean or wash your backpack using the appropriate method.

School, student and some types of tourist backpacks made from ordinary fabric without reinforcing impregnations that add functionality to the material can be washed in a washing machine. There are no particular difficulties in this procedure, the main thing is to set the correct program on the washing machine and choose the appropriate detergent composition.

The materials from which backpacks are made can be very different.

The sequence of actions in this case is as follows:

• Take all things out of your backpack and shake out all the dirt. In order not to once again create a load on the parts of the backpack, it is better to fasten all the zippers, fasteners, buttons, untie the knots, and pull out the removable parts.
• Using a suitable non-chlorine stain remover, you should pre-treat the most dirty areas or typical greasy stains.
• In order to get rid of unpleasant odors, the backpack should be soaked for a couple of hours in a weak solution of vinegar with the addition of baking soda.
• It is advisable to wash the backpack in a special mesh bag; if there is no bag, you can wrap it in an old pillowcase or curtain. Using a bag will reduce mechanical stress on the material and keep straps, fasteners, and laces intact.
• A school or travel backpack should be washed at a minimum temperature, usually 30-40°C. This is done to reduce wear on the fabric and preserve the color of the product, especially if it is very bright. Even if the temperature on the label is high, this does not mean that the backpack must be boiled.
• On the control panel of the washing machine, set the delicate or manual washing mode, rinse, but cancel spin and dry.
• If you plan to use a regular washing powder, then you need to take it a little, and also install an additional rinse. But it's even better to wash your backpack with a liquid, gel-type detergent. It perfectly removes dirt at low temperatures and comes off easily during rinsing.

After washing, take your backpack out of the washing machine, shake it slightly, turn the pockets inside out, straighten it and leave it to dry in a ventilated area or on fresh air. There is no need to squeeze the fabric; you should not twist or stretch it. It is also not recommended to speed up drying with heating devices, so as not to harm things.

Drying the backpack is quite convenient

Before use, be sure to completely dry the fabric of the backpack so that mold does not appear on it during wear, and as a result, an unpleasant odor.

As you can see, washing a school backpack or student backpack in a washing machine is quite simple, but dirt is not always immediately removed in this way. In this case, it will be necessary to repeat the process, but before doing so, select a suitable stain remover and soak the product in it for several hours. It is not recommended to remove erased stains with a solvent, since it contributes to rapid wear of the fabric, and as a result, rapid wear of the item.

Cleaning

Some types of backpacks, mainly tourist ones, cannot be washed at all, since in this case the special fabric will deteriorate. Such things can only be cleaned, and only by hand. The fabric from which such products are made is high-tech, multi-layered and very functional; the slightest violation of its composition and integrity completely deprives it of its unique qualities. For items made from such fabric, automatic washing is prohibited for a number of reasons, including:

Some backpacks cannot be shoved into the washing machine even if you really want to.

1. Household chemicals contained in laundry detergents have a negative effect; they help remove special impregnation from fabric fibers.
2. Detergent compositions used in washing are often simply not washed out of the material, even with prolonged and repeated rinsing. Subsequently, the remnants of these products will cause the item to change color, and upon contact with human skin and sweat, allergic reactions may occur.
3. Mechanical stress during washing not only contributes to the stretching of seams and joints, but also negatively affects the water-repellent properties of the fabric. After washing in the washing machine, the fabric begins to leak water in both directions, and even through the seams. By the way, over time, the seams will separate even more, forming noticeable gaps.
4. Modern tourist backpacks have complex designs that require large quantity accessories: rigid frame, orthopedic inserts for the back, reinforced bottom. With such elements, it will be difficult to wash the backpack in the washing machine so as not to damage its insides; even putting it into the drum will be problematic.

In this regard, it is much easier and more effective to simply clean the backpack material with ordinary laundry soap. If you do this regularly, no washing will be required.

You can clean the product in the following way:

• We remove all additional elements of the backpack; it is easier and more convenient to clean them separately from the overall structure.
• Fill a bath or basin with warm water and stir laundry soap in it; sometimes you can use a gentle, modern liquid laundry composition.
• We throw the backpack into the water and begin its systematic cleaning, using available means: rags, brushes, sponges.

Washing and cleaning large backpack in the bathroom

• It is advisable to carry out all the work in 10-15 minutes, without soaking long time material in water.
• After cleaning, drain the water, rinse the backpack under cool running tap water, and then fill the basin several times and rinse again. This long, multi-level rinsing will help completely remove traces of soap from the fabric.
• You cannot wring out the backpack, twist it or stretch it.
• After cleaning, the backpack should be placed in a ventilated place to dry, preferably out of direct sunlight.

It is worth noting that there is no need to wash the backpack again; it is enough to wet it, since each wash is a colossal stress for the fabric. On the other hand, the infrequency of such work will contribute to the appearance of large, difficult-to-remove contaminants. Therefore, it is best to find a middle ground.

As you can see, washing a school or even a travel backpack is not difficult. In this process, the main thing is to be careful and pedantic, then you will be able to clean the item efficiently and not harm it.

Children and students carry their school supplies in backpacks, and tourists carry personal belongings and clothes. Over time, food, moisture and daily wear and tear cause the backpack to become dirty and smelly. Luckily, modern backpacks are designed to withstand daily use and are easy to clean. Most can be washed in a regular washing machine using powder, but some are hand wash only, depending on the materials used. Mild cleaning products and a little effort are all you need to get your backpack clean again and extend its life.

Steps

Handwash

There is no need to be upset because you washed things with your backpack that are damaged by water. Turn your backpack inside out and use a vacuum cleaner on low power to remove dirt and debris from every hard-to-reach corner of your backpack. After emptying your backpack and vacuuming away debris, leave the pockets unzipped.

• Place all of your backpack items in a plastic bag so you can return them after washing. This way you won't forget or lose anything important.
• If some of your items are also dirty, now is the time to start cleaning while your backpack is in the wash. No one wants to put dirty things in a clean backpack.

1. Prepare your backpack for washing. Use a brush to remove dry dirt from the outer surfaces of the backpack. Then wipe it with a damp cloth without applying much force. This will get rid of external dirt, and the washing water will not be as dirty.

   Always follow the care instructions for your backpack (if provided) to avoid damage during washing. Care labels are usually sewn to the side seam of the inside of the backpack, most often in the main compartment. As a rule, they contain recommendations for washing and drying the backpack.

   • Some chemicals and cleaning methods may damage the backpack (for example, reduce moisture resistance), so we strongly recommend that you follow the care instructions.
   • If your backpack doesn't come with a care and washing label, test your detergents on a small area of ​​the fabric first so you don't accidentally ruin the entire backpack.

2. Pre-treatment of stains. Particularly dirty areas should be treated with stain remover, but do not use bleach. Using a soft brush (an old toothbrush), apply the product to the stains and leave for half an hour. This way you can remove almost any stain during the main wash.

   • If you don't have a pre-treatment, brush on a solution of 50:50 liquid detergent and water.

3. Fill a large bowl or bathtub with warm water. You can also use a large sink. You will need a really large amount of space to thoroughly wash all the pockets and compartments of the backpack.

   • Do not use hot water, otherwise the material may fade.
   • If the label prohibits completely immersing the backpack in water, you can wet and clean individual elements of the backpack with a wet cloth.

4. Add a mild detergent. Such a product should not contain dyes, flavors or chemicals. Harsh chemicals can damage the fabric of your backpack (reducing the effectiveness of the water-repellent layer), and dyes and fragrances can irritate your skin.

5. Scrub the backpack with a soft brush or cloth. You can completely submerge it in water or wet just a brush/rag. A brush will help clean particularly dirty areas, while a rag is more suitable for general handling of the material.

   • Using an old toothbrush is convenient for removing stubborn stains or cleaning a backpack in the most difficult to reach places.
   • If the backpack is made of delicate material (for example, mesh), then you can use a sponge instead of a brush so as not to damage the fabric.

6. Rinse your backpack thoroughly. Rinsing in warm water is necessary to remove any remaining detergent from the fabric.

   • Unscrew the backpack. You can place it in a large towel and roll it up with the backpack inside. This will allow the towel to absorb much of the moisture.
   • While unscrewing, be careful not to damage zippers, straps, or foam pads.

7. Dry your backpack. Do not use tumble dryers; allow the backpack to dry naturally. If possible, hang your backpack upside down and keep the pockets uncovered.

   • You can also dry your backpack outside under sun rays. This will help remove foreign odors.
   • Make sure the backpack is completely dry before using it or putting it away in a closet. If you leave your backpack wet, mold may form in it.

   Machine washable

   1. Take all things out of your backpack. Remove from your backpack all things that could be damaged by water during washing. To remove debris and crumbs from crevices inside your backpack, try turning it inside out and using a vacuum cleaner on low power. After vacuuming up debris, leave all pockets of the backpack open to allow them to be washed better.

      • To avoid losing items stored in your backpack, place them in a small plastic bag and place it in a safe place.
      • If some of the things are dirty, then now is the time to clean them. After all, no one wants to put dirty things in a clean backpack.

   2. Prepare your backpack for washing. Use a brush to remove dry dirt and dust from external surfaces. Then wipe the backpack with a damp cloth. This will get rid of external dirt, and the washing water will not be as dirty.

      • Before washing, remove the hard frame (if available) from the backpack.
      • All removable pockets and straps must be removed and cleaned separately. Because of their size, they can get stuck in the washing machine and damage the drum.
      • Cut off all threads near the zippers. The material often wears the most around the zippers, causing threads to get caught in the fastener and cause tears in the fabric.

   3. Read the information on the label. Almost all backpacks have a care label. As a rule, they indicate recommendations for washing and drying the backpack, so that the cleaning process does not impair resistance to external influences - for example, moisture resistance. The label is usually located inside the backpack, on the side seam in the largest compartment.

      • Harsh chemicals and rough washing methods can damage the backpack or its water repellency, so always follow the care instructions. If in doubt, use mild detergents and a delicate wash program, or hand wash your backpack.
      • Typically, backpacks are made of canvas or nylon, which are machine washable.
   4. After completing the wash program, remove the backpack from the pillowcase/bag and dry the outer and inner sections. Warnings
      • These recommendations do not apply to leather, suede and/or vinyl backpacks.
      • These recommendations do not apply to backpacks with internal or external frames.
      • If your backpack is treated with a water-repellent or sealing compound (often found on nylon backpacks), washing in soapy water may cause the seal to dissolve, causing your backpack to appear duller and more worn. You can purchase a water-repellent composition for treating fabric and applying after washing.