0
0
How to Wash Your Backpack
Your backpack is one of your most used companions — from school and work to hikes, travels, and everyday errands. Over time it collects dirt, sweat, crumbs, and odors, so backpack care is essential to keep it fresh, hygienic, and long-lasting. Luckily, learning how to properly wash a backpack isn’t complicated — you just need the right method for your bag’s materials. In this guide, we’ll walk you step-by-step through cleaning your backpack safely — whether you’re doing a deep clean or just spot-cleaning stains.
Why Cleaning Your Backpack Is Important
Backpacks go through a lot – especially during hikes - they sit on the ground, carry food, water bottles, clothes, and sometimes even sweaty gear. If you let dirt, bacteria, and grime build up, it can:
First Steps to Wash a Backpack
Empty Everything Out - Before you can wash backpack, unplug any accessories and open all compartments. Turn it upside down and shake out debris like crumbs, dirt, and leaves. Use a vacuum attachment if you have one for thorough cleaning.
Check the Care Label - Before digging in, check the manufacturer’s care instructions. Some backpacks shouldn’t be machine washed, and certain fabrics need extra careful treatment.
Hand Washing — Best for Outdoor & Technical Backpacks
Most hiking backpacks, technical packs, and bags with water-repellent coatings should be washed by hand to protect materials and finishes.
Here’s how:
Tip: Use a toothbrush to clean stuck-on dirt from zippers and seams without damaging protective coatings.
Can You Machine Wash a Backpack?
Some everyday backpacks made from nylon, canvas, or polyester can be washed in a machine — but only if the care label allows it. Technical backpacks, those with frames, leather details, or water-repellent coatings often shouldn’t go in the machine — it can damage materials or reduce their performance. If you choose this machine washing method:
Spot Cleaning Between Deep Washes
Not all messes require a full wash. A quick touch-up is a key part of ongoing backpack care — keeping your bag fresh without frequent full washes. For lighter cleaning or small stains:
Extra Tips for Backpack Care
To get the most out of your pack:
Final Thoughts — Keep It Clean, Keep It Lasting
Knowing how to wash backpack properly — whether by hand or in the machine — is a cornerstone of good backpack care. A clean pack not only looks better, it’s healthier, smells fresher, and lasts longer. With regular maintenance and the simple steps above, your backpack will be ready for every journey ahead.
Popular Products
Sign up for our newsletter and get 10% off your first order*
*Excluding campaigns, bundles and other offers
INFORMATION
CUSTOMER SERVICE
SHOP
© Beyond Nordic


BN501 Backpack 35L


BN502 Backpack 55L


BN503 20L Daypack


BN501 Backpack 35L


BN503 20L Daypack
Kombu Green
129.00EUR
Moss green
149.00EUR
Onyx Black
79.00EUR
Legion Blue
129.00EUR
Navy Blue
79.00EUR


RECYCLED
RECYCLED
RECYCLED
RECYCLED