Backpacks are used daily for school, work, travel, hiking, and the gym. Over time, they collect dirt, sweat, crumbs, and odors. If you’re wondering how to wash a backpack or how to clean a backpack properly, the process is straightforward.

Most backpacks can be washed & cleaned at home with mild soap, cool water, and either a gentle hand wash or a delicate machine cycle. Before starting the caring process you need to remember some key steps discussed in this guide.

A backpack (also known as a knapsack, rucksack, bookbag, or haversack) is a bag carried on your back using two shoulder straps. It evenly distributes weight across your back and hips, making it more comfortable than carrying items by hand. Backpacks are made from different materials such as nylon, polyester, and canvas, and some have internal or external frames to help carry heavier loads. Many newer backpacks also come with features like laptop compartments and charging ports that need extra care when cleaning.

Because backpacks are used daily and exposed to all kinds of environments, they need regular cleaning to stay in good shape. Studies show that backpacks make up about 60% of the school bag market, highlighting how important they are for students, travelers, and commuters. With that level of use, dirt and grime build up quickly. Whether you have a school backpack, a travel or hiking pack, a washable nylon or polyester bag, or a canvas style with leather trim and mesh sections, it’s essential to know when to machine wash and when to spot clean or hand wash in order to protect and extend its lifespan.

Why Backpacks Get Dirty and How Often You Should Clean Them

Backpacks get dirty because they’re constantly exposed to sweaty gym clothes, leaky water bottles, snack crumbs, and grimy surfaces like car trunks, classroom floors, or gym benches. Over time, this grime mixes with moisture and bacteria, leading to mold, mildew, and unpleasant odors. Dirt and grit can also abrade the fabric and straps if not cleaned regularly, gradually weakening the material.

How often should you wash a backpack? It depends on how you use it:

• Everyday school or work backpacks: Wipe down the interior quickly every couple of weeks, and do a thorough cleaning once or twice a year.
• Sports, gym, or hiking backpacks: Clean these more often – in fact, it’s wise to wash a backpack after each heavy use or sweaty outing if possible.
• Clear signs it’s time for a deeper clean: Stubborn stains, strong odors, sticky residue on straps, or visible mold spots are all clues that your bag needs a wash sooner rather than later.

Regular cleaning not only keeps your backpack looking and smelling fresh but also extends its lifespan. This is true whether it’s your daily school bag, a travel carry-on, or an outdoor hiking pack. A little maintenance goes a long way toward ensuring your backpack is always ready for the next adventure.

Things to Remember Before Cleaning Your Backpack

Before you start washing, take a few quick safety and care steps. Modern backpacks often come with built-in features USB charging ports, battery packs, or even metal frames – that need extra care during cleaning. Skipping preparation can lead to damaged gear or a ruined bag, so be sure to check the following:

• ⚠️Check the care label: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions first. The label will tell you if your backpack is machine washable, hand wash only, or requires special care. Some leather-trimmed backpacks or those with waterproof coatings may only be safe to hand clean.
• ⚠️Remove all electronics and power sources: Take out any power banks, chargers, headphones, or other gadgets. Never wash a backpack with electronic accessories or batteries still inside.
• ⚠️Detach removable parts: If your bag has hip belts, sternum straps, frame inserts, or any detachable pieces, remove them. These can often be cleaned separately and it prevents damage to both the parts and the bag.
• ⚠️Empty every pocket: This sounds obvious, but check every compartment, zipper, and hidden pocket. Shake out crumbs, pens, coins, and debris. You can use a small vacuum or a soft brush to get dirt out of seams and corners.
• ⚠️Avoid machine-washing “smart” backpacks: If your backpack has integrated electronics or special sensors, do not submerge it. Wipe it down with a damp cloth and mild detergent instead. Submerging tech-enhanced bags can destroy their components.
• ⚠️Test for colorfastness: In an inconspicuous area, gently scrub a small spot with mild soap and water. Make sure the color doesn’t bleed or rub off before you wash the entire bag. This is especially important for brightly colored or printed backpacks.
• ⚠️Protect special materials: If the backpack is waterproof or has a water-resistant coating, be gentle. Avoid hot water or harsh chemicals that could strip the coating. You can reapply a waterproof spray later. For packs with leather accents or trim, do not soak those sections – clean leather parts separately with a leather cleaner or conditioner after washing the fabric.
• ⚠️Be mindful of logos and decals: Many backpacks have printed logos or reflective patches. Avoid scrubbing directly on those designs with abrasive brushes or harsh cleaners, as they could fade or peel.

Taking these precautions will prevent damage to your backpack’s materials and features, keeping things like waterproof coatings, zippers, logos, and leather accents intact. A few minutes of prep can save you from ruining your favorite pack and will make the cleaning process safer and more effective.

Gather Cleaning Supplies

Before you get started, choose an appropriate workspace. Cleaning a backpack can be a wet process, so pick a spot like a laundry room, utility sink, bathtub, or even outdoors. Make sure water and soap won’t harm any flooring or furniture in the area and that you have enough room to maneuver the bag, especially for larger travel backpacks.

Prepare the following tools and supplies:

1. Mild detergent or soap: A gentle liquid laundry detergent or mild dish soap works well for most backpacks. Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals, as they can damage fabric and coatings.
2. Stain remover or baking soda & vinegar: For pre-treating tough stains and odors. Baking soda can help with odors; white vinegar is great for mildew or smell removal.
3. Soft brush or sponge: A soft-bristled brush (an old toothbrush works for crevices) and/or a non-abrasive sponge for scrubbing. These help remove dirt without tearing the material.
4. Cloths or microfiber towels: Useful for spot cleaning and for drying sections of the bag.
5. Large basin or tub: If hand washing, you'll need a container big enough to immerse the backpack, or use a bathtub.
6. Clean towels: Have a few absorbent towels on hand for pressing out water after washing. Old towels are perfect.
7. (Optional) Mesh laundry bag or pillowcase: If you plan to use a washing machine, a large mesh bag or pillowcase can protect straps and zippers from snagging. It’s not required, but can be helpful for delicate or older machines.

With your cleaning area set up and all the right supplies gathered, you’re ready to get your backpack clean effectively without causing any damage.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Wash a Backpack by Hand

Hand washing is often the safest way to clean a backpack, especially for those made of more delicate materials or with lots of attachments. It might seem a bit time-consuming, but I’ve learned through years of hiking and travel that it’s worth the effort. 

Follow these steps to wash your backpack by hand without harming it:

Step 1: Empty and Inspect Your Backpack

Completely empty your backpack inside and out. I mean everything – check every pocket, compartment, and those little hidden sleeves. You might be surprised by what lurks in the corners (crumbs, pens, old receipts, even moldy snacks!). Unzip all zippers and shake the bag out upside down to get rid of dirt and small debris. 

Remove any detachable components like hip belts, shoulder straps (if they unclip), metal frames, or support rods. You’ll wash those separately. 

While handling the empty pack, take a moment to inspect it: look for loose threads, broken zippers, or weak seams. It’s better to discover any damage now than when the bag is soaking wet. If you do find minor damage, you may want to repair or reinforce those areas before washing. 

💡Trusted Tip: Don’t skip the pre-inspection. A quick check can save your backpack. I once found a small tear in a seam before washing – had I not caught it, the agitation in water could have turned it into a big rip. Trust me, fixing a loose strap or tiny tear beforehand is much easier than dealing with a soaked backpack that’s coming apart.

Step 2: Pre-Treat Stains and Problem Areas

Address any visible stains or really dirty spots first. This will make the overall cleaning more effective. For general grime or mysterious dark smudges, a simple paste of baking soda and water works wonders (about 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water). Rub the paste onto the stains gently and let it sit for 15-20 minutes this helps lift dirt and neutralize odors. 

For greasy or oily stains (maybe from food spills or leaky snacks), apply a bit of dish soap directly to those spots; dish soap is designed to cut grease. Let the dish soap sit on the stain for about 15 minutes as well.

Different types of stains need different care:

• Mud or dirt: If you have dried mud caked on, brush off as much as you can first. If it’s still wet, let it dry before you attempt cleaning – scraping off dried mud is easier and prevents smearing it further into the fabric.
• Ink or pen marks: Rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab can lighten ink stains. Dab carefully and test on a small area first to ensure it doesn’t remove color from the fabric.
• Blood: Use cold water and a little hydrogen peroxide. Never use hot water on blood stains, as heat will set the protein and make the stain permanent. Dab the area with cold water and a touch of peroxide, then rinse.
• General odors: If the inside smells funky (gym clothes, we’re looking at you!), sprinkle a layer of baking soda inside the main compartment and let the backpack sit overnight before washing. Baking soda absorbs odors.

After treating these spots, your backpack will already be on its way to looking better. Pre-treating is like giving especially dirty areas a head start so that the wash will be more successful.

Step 3: Choose and Test Your Cleaning Solution

Now, decide on a cleaning solution and always test it on a small area of the backpack. The best cleaner depends on your pack’s material:

For most synthetic backpacks (nylon or polyester), a mild detergent or a specialty gear wash is ideal. Fill a large basin or bathtub with lukewarm (not hot) water and mix in a small amount of mild detergent (roughly 1-2 tablespoons per gallon of water is plenty). Avoid hot water — it can damage certain coatings (like the waterproof layer) and may cause colors to run. Cold water is okay but not as effective at activating cleaning agents, so lukewarm is the sweet spot.

For canvas backpacks, you can use a slightly stronger approach. Canvas is sturdy, so adding a half cup of white vinegar to your soapy water can help break down heavy dirt and eliminate odors. The vinegar smell won’t remain after drying, but it’s great at killing mold and mildew. 

If you have a leather trimmed backpack or one with leather patches/accents, remember that those parts should not be soaked with your normal detergent solution. Use a leather cleaner or saddle soap on the leather sections only, after you’ve washed the fabric. Regular soap can dry out or discolor leather.

For any special material or coating (for example, a waterproof backpack with a PVC lining), stick to mild soap and avoid anything with solvents or bleach. These packs often just need a gentle wipedown rather than a full soak. 

Always test your chosen cleaning mixture on a hidden spot first. I usually turn the backpack inside out and pick an inconspicuous area on the interior or underside. Dab a bit of your soapy solution on, let it sit a few minutes, then rinse and check for any color change or fabric damage. If you see any dye coming off or the fabric color fading, dilute your solution further or switch to an even milder soap. It’s far better to take a cautious approach (clean twice if you have to) than to ruin your bag with a solution that’s too harsh. Once you’re confident that the cleaner is safe, you’re ready for the full wash.

Step 4: Wash the Backpack (Hand Washing)

Now comes the actual washing process. Submerge the backpack into your basin or tub of cleaning solution. Do this gradually rather than just throwing it in; easing the pack into the water allows air trapped in the foam or pockets to escape and lets the solution saturate the fabric evenly. If you drop it in too quickly, you might get air bubbles that prevent some areas from getting wet. 

Using your hands, gently agitate the water and the backpack. Think of it like washing a delicate sweater you want movement, but not rough scrubbing that could damage the material. Massage the fabric with your hands to work soapy water through it. Pay extra attention to high-wear areas that gather the most dirt: the bottom panel of the bag, the shoulder straps where they sit on your shoulders (these often get sweat and body oil), and any area around zippers or pockets (dirt tends to accumulate along zipper lines and in pocket corners). For those especially grimy spots, you can use your soft brush or toothbrush. Scrub in gentle circular motions. ❌Don’t use excessive force; you’re trying to lift dirt out of the fibers, not grind it in or fray the material.

If you encounter a stubborn stain that didn’t fully come out during the pre-treat step, apply a little extra detergent or stain remover directly to that area and give it a few more gentle scrubs. Take care with any mesh sections or netting on the backpack – these can snag or tear with aggressive scrubbing, so treat mesh pockets gently (a light scrubbing with a soapy sponge usually does the trick). 

This hand-washing step might take a bit of time, especially if the backpack is very dirty, but thoroughness here means you won’t have to wash it again. I often set a timer and gently agitate the pack in the soapy water for around 5-10 minutes to let the detergent do its job.

Step 5: Focus on Specific Components

While your backpack is soaking and during the washing process, make sure to clean all the nooks and crannies. Certain parts of a backpack benefit from special attention:

1. Zippers: These collect a lot of grit. While the backpack is in the water, run all the zippers back and forth a few times. This helps flush out dirt from the zipper teeth. Use your toothbrush to scrub along the zipper coils and the pulls. Clean zippers not only slide smoother, but it also extends their life – built-up dirt can make them stick or wear out.
2. Straps and back panel: The shoulder straps and back panel (especially on hiking or travel backpacks) accumulate sweat, skin oils, and sunscreen. If these areas are really grimy or smell of sweat, you might even let them soak a bit longer than the rest of the pack. You can remove detachable straps and wash them separately in the same solution by hand, scrubbing gently. Make sure to get into the padding creases.
3. Buckles and hardware: Plastic buckles, adjusters, and other hardware can have mud or sand stuck in crevices. Use the toothbrush to scrub around buckle hinges and in any small slots where dirt hides. Take care not to bend or force anything; if a buckle is removable, it might be easier to detach it to clean, then reattach later.
4. Mesh pockets or panels: If your backpack has mesh bottle pockets or mesh ventilation panels, treat them kindly. A soft sponge works well on mesh. Press the sponge into the mesh and gently rub; avoid pushing your fingers through, as mesh can rip under pressure. The soapy water will do most of the work on these areas.

By addressing each component, you ensure that no part of the backpack is left dirty. Plus, this kind of detailed cleaning helps everything function better – straps slide easier, buckles snap more securely, and zippers glide without snagging after they’ve been cleaned.

Step 6: Address Lingering Odors

If your backpack still has a funky smell (perhaps that old gym-sock odor or a mustiness from being wet too long), a regular wash might not completely eliminate it. One effective trick I use for stubborn odors is a vinegar soak. After the main wash (or even during it), mix a solution of one part white vinegar to four parts water. Apply or soak the smelly areas in this vinegar solution for about 30 minutes. White vinegar is excellent for killing bacteria and mold spores that cause odors, and it won’t harm most fabrics. Don’t worry – the vinegar smell rinses out and won’t linger on your backpack.

Another odor-fighting tip: some people like to add a cup of baking soda to the wash water. In my experience, baking soda works best as a pre-treatment (like we did in Step 2) rather than dumping it in the wash. If you haven’t already, you could make a baking soda paste and rub it into any still-smelly linings, then rinse it off. The combination of vinegar and baking soda (separately, not at the same time) covers both bacteria and odor absorption.

After these treatments, your backpack should smell a lot fresher. Just ensure you rinse out any vinegar or baking soda residue thoroughly in the next step.

Step 7: Rinse Thoroughly

Leftover soap in the fabric will leave a residue that can make the backpack feel sticky or attract dirt faster once dry. Drain the dirty wash water from your basin or tub. Refill it with clean, lukewarm water (no soap this time) and submerge the backpack again. 

Slosh it around and gently swish the pack in this clean water. Then drain and refill again. You may need to rinse and repeat three or four times with fresh water until you’re confident that all soap, vinegar, or baking soda is gone.

As you rinse, pay special attention to areas that tend to hold soap: seams, pockets, and padding. Often, you can squeeze padded areas (like shoulder straps or back panels) while they’re underwater and see soap bubbles coming out keep doing this until no more bubbles appear. Similarly, pinch along seams and in pockets under the water to flush out any detergent lurking there. 

Do not wring or twist the backpack fabric during rinsing, as that can damage fibers and any waterproof layers. Instead, just submerge and squeeze gently. It may take a bit of patience, but thorough rinsing now will prevent that crunchy or soapy feel later.

At this point, your backpack should be clean and soap-free. Now it’s time to get it dry so it’s ready for use again. (After completing the hand washing steps, skip down to “Drying Your Backpack Properly” for the correct way to dry and finish up the process.)

How to Wash a Backpack in the Washing Machine: Complete Guide

Machine washing a backpack can save time and effort, but it comes with some risks. Not every backpack is suited for the washer, and using the wrong settings could damage your bag or your machine. 

I learned this the hard way years ago when I ruined a good hiking pack by machine washing it incorrectly. To help you avoid my mistakes, here’s exactly how to wash a backpack in a washing machine safely, and also when you should NOT machine wash it.

Step 1: Confirm the Backpack is Machine-Washable

Before tossing a backpack in your washer, double-check that it’s safe to do so. Look for a care label (usually inside a pocket or along an inner seam). If you see a little washing machine symbol with an “X” through it, that means do not machine wash – you’ll need to hand wash instead. Generally, simple nylon or polyester school backpacks and many gym bags can handle the gentle cycle, but more technical packs often cannot. Backpacks with internal frames, leather trim or components, or delicate waterproof coatings should not go in a washing machine. The agitation can bend frames, ruin leather, and strip off protective coatings. 

Also inspect the bag’s condition. If there are loose straps, broken zippers, or small tears, fix those first. A washing machine’s spinning and tumbling can make minor damage much worse. Tighten any loose buckles and consider a quick needle-and-thread job on small rips before washing. 

Step 2: Empty the Backpack and Prep It

Just like with hand washing, the backpack needs to be completely empty before machine washing. Check every pocket and compartment (I can’t tell you how many times I almost washed a forgotten tube of lip balm or pen). Detach any straps that can come off, and wash those separately by hand. For the main bag, a handy trick is to turn the backpack inside out or open all the zippers fully. This protects the outer surface from abrasion and also allows the interior, which is often the dirtiest, to get more exposure to water and soap. 

💡Expert Tip: If your bag has a lot of removable parts, you can place it inside a mesh laundry bag or old pillowcase to prevent the straps from wrapping around the washing machine’s agitator or snagging on the drum. This works well with top loading machines.

Step 3: Pre-Treat Stains and Odors

Before the backpack goes in the machine, treat it much like we did for hand washing. Apply some stain remover or liquid detergent directly to any visible stains. Let the detergent sit on those spots for about 15 minutes before washing – this will loosen the grime. 

For lingering odors, a great trick is to sprinkle baking soda inside the backpack compartments and let it sit for a few hours (or overnight) before washing. 

The baking soda will absorb a lot of the odor. Just remember to shake out or vacuum up the excess baking soda before throwing the backpack in the washer. 

Step 4: Select Gentle Washer Settings

Most bag manufactures recommond washing backpack's using delicate or gentle cycle. This setting uses slower agitation and a slower spin, which is easier on straps, stitching, and coatings. It might be a longer cycle, but the reduced force is key to preventing damage. 

Set the water temperature to cold or lukewarm – never hot. Hot water can make colors bleed and can damage any special materials (like that waterproof lining or any foam padding). I’ve always had the best results with cold water; it’s safe for all fabrics and still cleans effectively with a good detergent. 

If your washer has an extra rinse option, select it. Backpacks have many layers and pockets where soap can hide, so an extra rinse helps ensure all detergent is washed out.

Step 5: Use the Right Detergent (and No Fabric Softener)

When machine washing a backpack, use a mild liquid detergent. About half the normal amount you’d use for a full load of laundry is sufficient for one backpack. Using too much soap can cause excess suds and make it harder to rinse out. Do not use fabric softener or bleach. Fabric softener can leave residues that coat the fabric (reducing breathability or water resistance), and bleach can weaken fibers and ruin the color. If the backpack is an outdoor or technical pack with waterproofing, consider using a specialty cleaner like a "technical wash" (for example, products made for outdoor gear). These are formulated to clean without stripping away water-repellent coatings. But a mild regular detergent is fine for most everyday backpacks. Let the detergent dissolve in the water for a moment before putting the backpack in (especially if your machine fills from the top). This prevents concentrated detergent from directly hitting one part of the fabric and causing a bleach-like spot.

Step 6: Load the Washer Properly

Wash the backpack with a few old, color-safe towels to balance the load and cushion the bag. Zip up all zippers, clip buckles, and leave the main compartment slightly open so water can reach inside. Use a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase if available to contain straps.

Start the cycle and listen for the first minute—if you hear banging or imbalance, stop, adjust the load, and restart. Select a slow or medium spin speed to reduce stress on seams and straps. If the washer wobbles, reposition the contents or add another towel for balance. After spinning, support the backpack from the bottom when lifting it out—it will still be heavy with water.

Step 9: Inspect the Backpack After Washing

Before moving on to drying, give your backpack a quick check. While it’s still damp, look it over for any issues: Are all the stains gone, or are there spots that didn’t come out? If something stubborn is still visible, you might choose to spot-clean that area by hand now, rather than running the whole bag through another cycle. Sniff the inside – does it smell clean? Lingering odors can mean you need another wash or a targeted odor treatment (like another vinegar rinse for the smelly area). Also check the condition: no new rips or frayed seams appeared, I hope! If you do see any damage like a loosened strap or a partially detached buckle that might have happened during washing, you’ll want to address that after it’s dry.

In most cases, if you’ve followed the steps, your machine-washed backpack should be intact, clean, and ready to dry. If everything looks good, proceed to the next steps for drying and post-wash care. (After the wash cycle, continue to “Drying Your Backpack Properly” below to learn how to dry the backpack without causing damage.)

When Machine Washing Goes Wrong

Despite our best efforts, sometimes machine washing doesn’t go perfectly. If your backpack comes out of the washer with unexpected damage (say a broken zipper or a new tear), check if it’s still under warranty some manufacturers will repair or replace packs even if they were damaged during cleaning, as long as you followed their guidelines. 

If the backpack isn’t as clean as you hoped (maybe a stain is still there or a smell persists), resist the urge to immediately run it through another aggressive wash cycle. Instead, try spot-cleaning the trouble areas by hand, or take it to a professional cleaner if it’s an expensive or technical bag. And if a bad odor remains even after washing, it might be something that has penetrated deep into the material (for example, sour milk or mold can sometimes never fully come out). 

In those rare cases, replacement might be the only solution. The good news is, when done correctly with a suitable pack, machine washing can rejuvenate your backpack with minimal effort. Just remember – when in doubt, hand washing is the safer choice to protect your gear’s longevity.

Drying Your Backpack Properly

Never put a backpack in the dryer—heat and tumbling can shrink fabric, melt parts, and ruin waterproof coatings. Always air dry using the steps below.

1. Remove Excess Water: Support the backpack from the bottom and gently squeeze water out—never wring or twist. Blot with clean towels, pressing inside compartments and straps. Replace towels as they get soaked. The drier you get it now, the faster it will air dry.

2. Air Dry in a Ventilated Spot: Choose a shaded, well-ventilated area indoors or outdoors. Avoid direct sun to prevent fading or material damage. Open all zippers and pockets, hang by the top handle, or drape over a drying rack for maximum airflow. Turn the bag inside-out if possible to dry padded areas faster.

3. Speed Up Drying: Use a fan or dehumidifier to move air through the backpack, especially in humid climates. Aim airflow into the main compartment and reposition the bag every few hours. Do not use hair dryers or heaters—high heat can cause damage similar to a dryer.

4. Reshape While Damp: Smooth out straps, padding, and corners before they fully dry to prevent stiffness or clumping. Massage foam areas to keep them even. Adjust pockets and panels so they dry in their natural shape.

5. Final Check and Post-Care: Let the backpack dry 24–48 hours until completely dry inside and out to prevent mildew. Test zippers, clasps, and straps. If zippers feel stiff, rub a graphite pencil or candle wax along the teeth for lubrication. For hiking or travel packs, reapply a durable water-repellent (DWR) spray once dry to restore water resistance.

Conclusion: Keep Your Backpack Clean and Ready for Every Adventure

Learning how to wash, clean & care a backpack the right way keeps it looking fresh, odor-free, and durable for years to come. Whether you hand wash or use a gentle machine cycle, the essentials are the same: prep your bag, use mild detergent with cold water, and always air dry your backpack to protect straps, zippers, and coatings. Regular cleaning prevents dirt, sweat, and bacteria from breaking down the fabric, making it last longer and perform better.

Now that you know the step-by-step process, it’s time to put it into practice. Grab your favorite school bag, gym backpack, or travel pack and give it the care it deserves. For more care tips, cleaning guides, and custom backpack options, explore our collection at Promotional Product Inc. Keep your backpack clean today—and keep it ready for tomorrow’s adventures. 👉 Shop custom backpacks and promotional bags now.