Can you wash backpacks in the washing machine? Experts have their say

For such a simple bit of kit, backpacks can be incredibly difficult to keep clean. Not only do we put them through so much – from the school day to hard hikes – but their mixed materials and sizes mean they can be awkward to clean.

The simple answer would be to empty them out and throw them in the washing machine, but this is not always the best solution if you want to keep your bag looking and performing its best.

Here, cleaning experts and bag manufacturers explain how to know if you can wash a backpack in a washing machine or not, and share their top cleaning tips for backpacks to keep them in top condition.

Can you wash backpacks in the washing machine?

Generally speaking, most backpacks can go in the washing machine, says Matt O'Connor, co-founder and CEO at NoScrubs.io Laundry Delivery but it will depend on what the bag is made from.

He explains, ‘Most backpacks can be machine washed, but it depends on the material. Canvas, nylon, and most synthetic fabric backpacks are usually safe. Leather or bags with lots of embellishments? Hand wash those.'

Specialized backpacks, on the other hand, such as those designed for hiking or trekking, are better off washed by hand, however, continues Tys Sniffen, founder and bag designer at Idea Mountain says, ‘Either you have a waterproof material that the washing machine won't help, or you have a water-resistant material, meaning it has been soaked with a water-resistant chemical.

'Over time, washing a backpack will reduce its water resistance as you are washing out that chemical that's been soaked in. Those chemicals are harsh, but you can buy more and spray more on if you want.’

With those distinctions in mind, this is how to wash backpacks properly – both in the washing machine and washing by hand.

1. Check your bag’s materials

Before washing your backpacks, it is important to check the laundry symbols on the care tag first. This will usually detail the materials used on the bag, and any special considerations you need to take into account while washing it.

This will usually be located on the inside of the bag, so check the smaller pockets until you find it. If in doubt, or the label is missing, consider hand washing to be on the safe side.

2. Washing in the washing machine

If your bag is safe for the washing machine, start by emptying the bag and removing any loose straps or compartments, Eliana Coca, cleaning expert and owner of E.C. House Cleaning, begins.

‘Then, wash the backpack on a gentle cycle using cold water and a mild detergent,’ she suggests. ‘Air drying is best to avoid heat damage. For stubborn stains, pre-treat the area before washing and check the backpack after washing to ensure the stain is removed.’

It is worth noting that just because a bag can be washed in a washing machine, doesn’t always mean that you should – especially if you want your backpack to last and look its best, adds Tys Sniffen, backpack designer. 

‘Washing machines use an agitation process and a spin process that will almost certainly catch some corner of the backpack and make it look like it's been dragged through the street,’ he warns. ‘Let alone all the straps and buckles that may be flying around.’

If this concerns you, consider hand washing instead or, as cleaning expert Matt O'Connor suggests, put the backpack inside of an old pillowcase to help keep all the straps in place and protect the material.

If you choose to wash your backpack in the washing machine, wash it on a cold wash on the machine's gentlest setting with a mild detergent to keep your bag in top condition and avoid shrinking the material or melting any adhesives used on the bag.

3. Washing by hand

Much like washing hats without damaging them, hand-washing backpacks takes more time and effort than putting them in the washing machine, but they will often make your item last longer and leave them looking better than putting them through a regular laundry cycle, which can wrinkle or distort.

‘The way to clean just about any material backpack is to use a soft soap and warm water and a soft bristle brush. Ideally a nice hand-size brush but toothbrushes will work as well,’ says Tys Sniffen, backpack designer. 

Then let it dry in the sun, but don't leave it out in the for days as natural sunlight can fade fabric (making it a great way to remove stubborn stains).

4. Clean regularly

Our backpacks are often a lot dirtier than we think, so regular cleaning will help to keep them in top condition, reminds Eliana Coca, cleaning expert:

‘Backpacks collect dirt and germs with use, so regular cleaning is important for hygiene and to prevent the growth of mold or bacteria. I recommend washing backpacks at least two to three times per year or if visibly dirty. For heavy use, once a month is a good rule of thumb.’

FAQs

How do you clean a backpack that smells?

If your backpack smells, empty it out, vacuum away any loose debris, and then fill it with one cup of baking soda, such as Arm and Hammer Pure Baking Soda, available at Walmart. It is brilliant for soaking up smells and cleaning lots of things around the home. 

Zip up the backpack and allow it to sit for 24 hours to absorb and neutralize strong odors. Then empty the baking soda out of the bag over a trash can before vacuuming again and wiping the bag down with a cloth dampened with water and a few drops of mild detergent.

If you do not want to wash your backpack in the washing machine but need to quickly refresh the bag without scrubbing, consider using a steam cleaner to help kill bacteria and neutralize odors. 

Start by emptying the backpack and vacuuming the interior to remove dust, crumbs, and debris, then turn the bag inside out. Steam the interior, let it dry, then revert the bag and steam the exterior before allowing it to dry in the sun.

Learn more cleaning tips with our guide on how to do laundry.