How to Clean a Backpack | Backpack Care
How to clean a backpack.
Looking after your hiking backpack can save you a lot of hassle long term. After every trip we'd suggest emptying your backpack, tipping it upside down to rid it of any dust inside, and getting any dirt off the outside of the pack. If it’s muddy, follow the steps below to give it a more thorough clean before storing the pack. All backpacks should be stored in a cool, dry environment. Better in a wardrobe than in the cellar!
How to do a full clean of your backpack.
Before you start, check your pack for any damage. If there are any holes or snags, consider sending it to our Service Centre for a professional repair first. Helpful cleaning kit to have to hand -
Soft brush – a shoe brush would do, but make sure there’s no polish on it.
Technical soap. Don’t use bleach or standard detergent.
Clean sponge.
Small bucket or bowl filled with cold water and your technical soap.
Top tip.
Don’t forget that rain covers are a great way of protecting your backpack, not only from rain but also from mud and dirt, scuffs from rocks, and general wear and tear.
7 easy steps to clean your backpack.
Empty the main compartments and all the pockets, and loosen any straps.
Vacuum inside the pack, getting into any nooks and crannies. Use the lowest/gentlest setting.
Wet the pack all over with the sponge. It’s important to wet any dried mud before brushing. Mud sticks to the fabric, so peeling it off can seriously damage the fabric.
Gently sponge the shoulder harness and hipbelt to encourage any sweat and oils to come out. Leave it soapy for a short while before rinsing.
Using the sponge, gently scrub off any stubborn marks on the outer fabric.
Rinse thoroughly with clean, cold water.
Hang to dry. Choose somewhere out of direct sunlight, away from any radiators or other heat sources.
Things to avoid:
Try not to remove any internal frames, unless these are advertised as removable.
Never machine wash, tumble dry, or dry clean any of our backpacks.
Avoid using solvents during the cleaning process.
Your pack has a DWR (durable water repellent) coating on the outer fabric. Over time, this wears down. To replenish it, once you've washed your pack and while the fabric is still damp, use a spray-on reproofer and follow the instructions on the bottle.