The Most Effective Way to Clean Your Backpack

The Most Effective Way to Clean Your Backpack

Matthew Seve

Cleaning a backpack properly depends a lot on the packs material construction and whether it’s super dirty or just needs a tidy up, but here’s a general method that works for most polyester or nylon backpacks.

How to Clean a Backpack (By Hand)


What you’ll need:


  • Mild detergent or dish soap

  • Soft brush or sponge

  • Old toothbrush (for crevices)

  • Clean towel

  • Optional: stain remover

Step-by-Step:


  1. Empty it completely

    • Check every pocket, shake out crumbs and dust. Open all zippers.

    • Tip: Turn the backpack inside out if possible to get rid of hidden debris.

  2. Spot clean first

    • Use a damp cloth or toothbrush with a little soap to scrub away any visible stains or marks.

  3. Prepare a cleaning solution

    • Fill a tub or sink with warm water and a small amount of gentle detergent.

  4. Scrub it gently

    • Dip a soft brush or sponge into the soapy water and clean the entire surface, inside and out. Its best not to submerge your backpack if you dont have to.

    • Use a toothbrush for zippers, seams, and tough spots.

  5. Rinse well

    • Wipe it down with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue. You don’t want detergent sitting on the fabric.

  6. Dry properly

    • Pat with a towel to absorb excess water.

    • Hang it upside-down (with zippers and pockets open) in a well-ventilated area to air-dry completely. (ideally out of direct sunlight)

    • Do not tumble dry as it will destroy the fabric and fittings.

  7. Lubricate the zips
    • After your pack is dry, it is recommended you apply zipper wax or a similar lubricant to the zip teeth to ensure optimal functionality and longevity of your zips.

⚠️ Pro Tips:


  • No bleach or harsh detergents – they can wear down the fabric and material coating or fade colors.

  • No full submersion if the backpack has a frame or leather parts, just spot clean those areas.

  • Machine washable? Check the care tag. In most cases this is not recommended, but if it says it’s safe to do so, use a gentle cycle, place the pack inside a laundry bag or pillowcase, cold or warm water, and air-dry it after.