
With normal use, backpacks become dirty, especially those used for school, hiking, and camping. The outside can become grimy, and surprisingly, the inside can become even dirtier than the exterior. Backpacks aren’t typically machine washable because they aren’t designed to stand up to the agitation of a washing machine. It is possible to clean a dirty backpack, and the following information explains how to save a backpack from turning into trash.
Before you clean a backpack, all of the interior pockets, pouches, and crevices must be thoroughly vacuumed. Otherwise crumbs and other debris will be smeared into the material and make the backpack dirtier than before you began attempting to clean it. Use a vacuum attachment, or if you don’t have one, use an automatic vacuum at your local car wash. Once the dirty backpack is void of crumbs and debris, it should be very easy to clean.
After vacuuming away crumbs, dust, and loose debris, fill a sink or a bucket with warm water combined with a tablespoon or two of dishwashing liquid. Dishwashing liquid with degreaser is a good choice if greasy grime is a problem. You’ll also need a clean sponge or rag.
Begin wiping the material. Go over it as many times as necessary to thoroughly clean the backpack, and change the warm soapy water as necessary.
Once the bag is clean, inside and out, go over it one last time with clear water and a sponge or rag. Thoroughly ring out the rag or sponge each time to avoid soaking the material with too much water. This will remove any remaining dirt and soapy water, and once you’re done the backpack should be clean and ready to dry.