A backpack is generally designed to take a beating. Hanging a backpack from a hook or placing it on a chair or table is an ideal way to keep your backpack on a daily basis. If you need to store it long term, make sure it’s clean and empty before putting it away. (You don’t need to find hardened clumps of chewing gum in the pockets when the backpack needs to be used next.) When not in use, store it flat, dry, and clean in a plastic bin or place it on a closet shelf.
Repairs
A broken backpack is of no use, especially if there are holes and broken zippers that let contents fall out of the bag. Interior pocket rips can be mended with a needle and thread if you can physically get at the tear, which is typically on a seam. Fix exterior mesh pocket tears with similar fabric patches which will make the pocket functional again.
Depending on the design of the straps, broken ones can be fixed. If the strap goes through a buckle, you might need to cut down the strap and use an anvil to create another hole for the buckle. If a strap, zipper, or a buckle needs replacement, and the fabric is too tough to sew through with a needle and thread, consult a shoe repair professional who also has the right tools to fix handbags. Before replacing a zipper, see if pliers can’t fix bent teeth or a distorted slider.
Treating Stains on a Backpack
If the backpack says that it should not be washed, spot clean a stain using a one-to-one detergent and water solution but try not to oversaturate the fabric. Rinse using a clean white cloth dipped in plain water. Blot until no detergent or soil is transferred and air-dry the bag.
Tips for Washing a Backpack
If washing by hand, fill the tub or large sink with enough lukewarm water to cover the item and about one tablespoon of laundry detergent. Allow it to soak for 15 minutes and then swish the backpack through the water to remove soil. Drain the soapy water and rinse very well. Do not wring or twist the backpack because it can damage zippers and trim. Hang to air-dry.
If a backpack is waterproof, wash it only once or twice per year. Too much washing and detergent can lessen the pack’s ability to repel water. Waterproofing sprays can be used to replenish lost coating. Be sure the backpack is clean and completely dry before spraying.
Do not bring a backpack to the dry cleaners. The dry cleaning process and the solvents could ruin the shape and finish (especially if it’s waterproof) of your bag.
