Omar Khalid
Plastic backpacks can get dirty and grimy, especially if they are used regularly or by children. Knowing how to wash a backpack properly can keep it free of germs and smells. Basic school backpacks and bookbags made of nylon or canvas can usually be washed in a washing machine, but it is important to check the care label first. Hand washing is the safest method to clean backpacks, especially if they have protective coatings, leather trims, or decorations such as iron-on patches or embroidery. To wash a backpack by hand, fill a sink, basin, or bathtub with lukewarm water and a mild detergent, and scrub the backpack with a sponge or washcloth. Clear plastic backpacks can be washed with warm water and dish soap or laundry detergent, and stubborn spots can be removed with non-acetone nail polish remover.
Characteristics of Washing Plastic Backpacks
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Frequency | Depends on usage, but can go years without a wash |
| Preparation | Empty the backpack, shake it out, and vacuum crumbs and dust from the compartments |
| Stain Removal | Treat stains with a stain remover or non-acetone nail polish remover, let it sit, then wash |
| Washing | Hand wash with warm water and a mild soap or detergent, scrub with a brush, rinse, and air dry |
| Machine Washing | Place in a mesh bag, wash on a normal cycle with warm or cool water, hang dry, and avoid the dryer |
| Drying | Hang upside down to air dry, ensure all compartments are open for ventilation |
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What You'll Learn
Clearing out the backpack
Once the backpack is empty, it is important to check for any stains that need to be treated before washing. For tough stains, use a stain treatment product, working it into the fabric with a damp brush and allowing it to sit for 30 minutes before washing. If you are washing a clear plastic backpack, some manufacturers suggest using non-acetone nail polish remover on a cotton pad to remove stubborn spots. You can also try scrubbing with alcohol and a nylon brush to remove plastic residue from the inside of the bag.
If your backpack has a metal frame, be sure to remove it before washing. Check your owner's manual to see if it is removable. It is also a good idea to cut away any loose threads near zipping areas to prevent them from getting snagged during washing.
After treating stains, the backpack is ready to be washed. If you are handwashing, fill a sink or bathtub with lukewarm water and add a mild soap or detergent. Submerge the backpack and use a sponge or brush to clean the interiors and exteriors. Rinse the bag thoroughly with cold water to remove all soap residue, then hang it upside down to air dry, leaving all compartments open for ventilation.
If you are machine washing, use a mesh bag to protect the backpack's zippers and straps from tangling or snagging. Select a gentle cycle with warm or cool water, and avoid using hot water if your backpack has plastic or vinyl panels. Remove the backpack promptly at the end of the cycle and hang it to dry, avoiding the use of a dryer.
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Pretreating stains
- Identify the stain type: Different stains require different treatments. For example, food stains, grease spots, or environmental and body soils from outdoor use. Identifying the type of stain will help you choose the most effective treatment method.
- Choose the right stain remover: Select a stain remover that is suitable for the type of stain and the material of your backpack. Mild soap or a gentle detergent free of fragrances, dyes, and other chemicals is usually recommended. You can also use a stain pre-treatment product or a natural stain remover with plant-derived surfactants and enzymes.
- Apply the stain remover: Follow the instructions on the stain remover product. Generally, you will need to apply a small amount of the product to the stain using a clean cloth or brush. Work the stain remover into the fabric gently.
- Allow it to sit: Let the stain remover sit on the stain for at least 15 minutes. Some pre-treatment products may require longer, up to 8 hours, to effectively penetrate and break down stubborn stains.
- Test on a small area: Before proceeding, it is always a good idea to test the stain remover on a small, inconspicuous area of the backpack to ensure it does not cause discolouration or damage to the fabric.
- Repeat if necessary: If the stain is still visible after the first treatment, you may need to repeat the process or try a different stain remover.
Remember to always check the manufacturer's cleaning recommendations and care instructions for your plastic backpack before starting the pretreating process. Some products may have specific instructions or restrictions that you need to follow.
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Washing the backpack
First, empty the backpack. Clear everything out of the bag, including crumbs and dust from the crevices, and get into every compartment. Put the contents into a plastic bag so they stay together during the wash.
If there are any noticeable stains on the backpack, add a small amount of stain remover to the stain with a clean cloth and allow it to sit for 30 minutes before washing the bag. Alternatively, you can use a few drops of dish soap and scrub the stain with a brush.
If your backpack has a metal frame, remove it, along with the hip belt and shoulder straps, if possible. Wash these separately with a sponge and a little mild soap. Rinse well under running water.
Fill a bathtub or large sink with about 6 inches of lukewarm water. You can also use warm water and a bit of detergent, letting the backpack soak for an hour. Then, fill the tub or sink with cold water and swish your pack vigorously, sponging off the interiors and brushing exterior spots. You can also use a washcloth to wash the backpack.
Rinse the backpack in the shower with cold water to get all of the soap off. Hang it outside, open, to dry for a few days.
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Rinsing and drying the backpack
Once you have finished cleaning your backpack with a brush, detergent, and water, it is time to rinse and dry it.
Rinsing the backpack is important to ensure that all the soap is removed from the fabric. Rinse the backpack in a shower with cold water, or use a clean, dry rag to wipe down the backpack, paying particular attention to the removal of soap from the fabric. If there is an excessive mess or sticky residue, you may need to rinse the backpack twice.
After rinsing, it is important to dry the backpack thoroughly. Hang the backpack upside down to air-dry, ensuring all the compartments are open for ventilation. Do not use a dryer, as this could damage the backpack. Leave the backpack to dry for a few days.
If you are handwashing your backpack, it is important to dry the bathtub or sink after rinsing the backpack to prevent anyone from slipping.
If you are cleaning a plastic backpack, you can use a strong nylon brush to scrub the plastic with alcohol. After scrubbing, impregnate the backpack with a product like Nikwash.
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Maintaining the backpack
Maintaining your backpack is essential, whether it's a light or deep clean, to keep it germ-free, long-lasting, and odour-free. Here are some detailed instructions to keep your backpack in good condition:
Empty the Backpack:
First, empty the backpack and clear out every compartment, including crumbs from pockets. Put the contents into a plastic bag to keep them together and organised.
Vacuum or Brush:
Use a handheld vacuum to clean the backpack's compartments, seams, and crevices. Alternatively, a computer keyboard air blower or a clean makeup brush can be used to loosen debris and minimise damage to the fabric.
Stain Removal:
For visible marks or stubborn spots, treat with a stain remover or solution. Work the solution into the stain with a damp brush or cloth and let it sit for 30 minutes before washing.
Washing:
Check the manufacturer's instructions for specific care advice. If the backpack has a metal frame or hip belt, remove them if possible. Fill a bathtub or sink with lukewarm water and add a mild soap or detergent. Submerge the backpack and swish it around, sponging the interiors and brushing exterior spots. Rinse thoroughly with cold water to remove all soap residue.
Drying:
After rinsing, hang the backpack upside down to air-dry. Ensure all compartments are open for ventilation and leave it to dry for a few days. Do not put the backpack in a dryer.
For hard plastic backpacks, use a few drops of dish soap and a scrubbing brush to clean. Rinse well with warm water and hang to dry. Always check care instructions and avoid washing plastic backpacks with fabric panels in hot water.
Regular maintenance of your backpack will ensure its longevity and keep it in good condition.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to deep clean your backpack once or twice a year.
First, open every pocket and compartment and remove all items, leaving pockets unzipped. Then, place the backpack inside a pillowcase or laundry bag to prevent straps or zippers from getting tangled or caught inside the washer. Next, add a small amount of mild detergent and run a gentle cycle with cold water. Finally, use a towel to gently pat away excess moisture, and hang up the bag to air dry.
First, empty the backpack and clear out every compartment. Then, fill a sink, basin, or bathtub with lukewarm water and a small amount of mild detergent. If the backpack can be submerged, place it directly in the water and scrub both the inside and outside with a sponge or washcloth. If the backpack cannot be submerged, use a sponge or cloth and scrub without fully immersing the backpack. Finally, use a towel to gently pat away excess moisture, and hang up the bag to air dry.
It is recommended to use mild detergent or a no-rinse detergent when washing your plastic backpack. You can also use non-acetone nail polish remover on a cotton pad for stubborn spots.
To remove stains from your plastic backpack, use an enzymatic stain treatment product. Apply the product to the stained area and gently scrub with a soft-bristled brush or sponge.
