Backpacks have transformed from a hiker’s necessity to both a fashion statement and favorite way to carry essentials for people of all ages. Whether you are carrying camping equipment, gym clothes, or school supplies, eventually the backpack is going to need to be cleaned. Fortunately, it doesn’t require frequent washings—once or twice a year will suffice unless it becomes soiled beyond daily wear. Before you wash your backpack, you can run a vacuum nozzle along all the seams (inside and out) to remove any dust or debris.

Project Metrics

Working time: 5 minutes

Total time: 35 minutes, plus air-drying time

Skill level: Beginner

What You’ll Need

Supplies

Heavy-duty laundry detergent

Pine oil, phenolic disinfectant, or disinfectant wipes

Water

Mesh laundry bag or pillowcase

Tools

Washing machine or tub

Soft-bristled brush

Towel

Empty Every Pocket

The first step in cleaning any type of backpack is to empty everything from the pockets. You’ll be amazed at what you find. Leave every pocket unzipped, unfastened, and turned inside out, if possible. Take off any added clip-on accessories, removable straps, or metal parts, if you can.

Read the Care Label

Look for any tags that offer washing instructions. Most fabric backpacks can either be washed by hand or machine-washed. Leather or leather-trimmed backpacks should be cleaned following the instructions for cleaning leather jackets.

Clean the Straps

If the straps need to be cleaned and are removable, wash them by hand in a solution of heavy-duty liquid laundry detergent that contains enough enzymes to break apart the soil so it can be flushed away with warm water. Allow the straps to soak for 30 minutes to loosen soil and then use a soft-bristled brush (an old toothbrush also works) to clean heavily stained areas. Rinse in cool water and allow the straps to air-dry. Do not place in a clothes dryer.