When you return from a trip, your backpack is always covered in varying degrees of dirt. It is difficult to know when or how to clean a backpack, but if yours is anything like this, it’s time to clean it.

1. Why you should wash your backpack

You may be proud of your backpack’s well-worn appearance, but oils and UV rays can degrade the sophisticated backpacks fabric over time, making it more susceptible to tearing. Regular cleaning will extend the life of your backpack and save you money.

2. When is the right time to wash your backpack?

Dirt and stains are easier to remove when they are still wet. You can prevent long-term damage to your backpack by regularly maintaining zippers and spot cleaning dirt and stains when you return from a hike. A gentle cleaning after every hike is much better than a full scrub at the end of the season. That is why there is a saying: better to prevent than cure.

3. What you’ll need when cleaning

You can’t throw your backpack in the washing machine with the rest of your clothes; it will damage your backpack and scratch off its polyurethane coating. Plus, when detergent residue, sweat, and UV rays come into contact, they form a chemical reaction that increases the rate at which the fabric degrades. It’s best to stick to hand washing. Here’s what you’ll need:

Mild soap.

Make sure it’s free of fragrances and additives. Strong detergents can damage the fabric and protective coatings in your backpack.

A clean towel or sponge

To protect the protective coating of your backpack, use a toothbrush or soft-bristled brush very carefully.

4.How to clean your backpack

Before you start cleaning, make every parts of backpack is completely empty. Check any tags or labels for the backpack manufacturer’s specific cleaning instructions.

If your backpack is just a little dusty, you can do some basic cleaning. If your backpack is uncharacteristically dusty from several seasons of smoke, dust, or stains, you may want to consider a thorough cleaning.

Light Cleaning

Use a wet towel to wipe away dirt from the inside of your backpack. Put a small bar of soap on the towel and use it to scrub the outside of your backpack for light dirt. If this isn’t enough to clean your backpack, add more soapy water and rinse off the soap with warm water.

Check your zippers for dirt and debris and brush them clean with a dry towel or sponge.

Thorough Cleaning

Remove your backpack’s waist and shoulder straps (if it allows) and wash any particularly dirty areas separately with soap and your towel or brush. Soak your backpack in a basin or sink for one to two minutes.

Shake your pack vigorously in the water to clean the inside and outside. If there are stains or dirt that won’t come off with just soap and water, use your brush or towel to gently brush out the dirt. Be careful not to tear the mesh bag or exterior compartments. Drain the soiled water. Rinse again with clean, warm water and repeat as many times as necessary to completely remove soap and dirt.

5. Air your backpack

Don’t leave your backpack out in the sun. Don’t put it in the dryer either. Instead, open all pockets and dry your backpack indoors or outdoors in the shade. If your backpack is wet after cleaning, use a towel to absorb excess moisture. It will also dry faster if you hang it upside down.