Summer is the perfect time for preparing kids’ gear for the upcoming school year, washing a traveling backpack, or disinfecting backpacking gear. Knowing some tips on how to clean a backpack in a washing machine will make sure your backpack gets its best clean while protecting it in the process.
Some people don’t know that you can put backpacks in the washer, but it’s true! And why buy new when you can clean up your favorite pack with our tips on how to clean your backpack!
Clean a Backpack in a Washing Machine… The Right Way.
Follow these tips on how to wash a backpack in the washing machine – you’ll be a pro in no time!
1. Check the Label for Cleaning Instructions
Before we begin our guide on how to wash a backpack, it’s always best to check for backpack cleaning instructions in the liner. Make sure your backpack has a washable fabric and check to see what the recommended temperature is for the wash cycle.
Once you have the all-clear, you can get ready to wash a backpack in the washer in just a few easy steps.
2. Prepare Your Backpack for Cleaning
The first thing to do is get a bag, bin, or some kind of container to empty the contents of the backpack into. Make sure to dig into the pockets and all the tiny crevices to remove all foreign objects, pens, coins, etc. from the inside of the pack. You can sort through it all while the backpack is washing.
Detach any removable pieces, such as straps, frame stays, or accessories. If these are washable, they can be placed inside laundry bags to add to the washer or wash by hand in a sink with warm water and laundry detergent.
3. Pre-Treat Stains
Preparing to clean a backpack in a washing machine usually involves stain removal. If your backpack has been used by children or dragged through the mountains, it’s likely to have stains.
If there is a lot of dried debris such as mud, use a stiff, dry brush to scrape it off. Then use your laundry detergent and a toothbrush to gently scrub stains before adding to the washing machine. This should loosen any grime or dirt. For stubborn stains, let the area soak in warm water with detergent for 15-30 minutes, then scrub again with a toothbrush.
4. Wash Your Backpack
Adjust the wash cycle and water temperature according to the care instructions on your backpack. If you have no care instructions, (read: you cut off the tag at some point), then choose the gentle cycle and warm water settings. If possible, opt for an extra rinse cycle to get rid of any remaining dirt or detergent residue.
Place the backpack in a large mesh laundry bag (or a large pillowcase if desperate!). If there are any removable pieces that will go into the washer, put those in a separate laundry bag.
Throw it all in the washing machine and grab a snack!
5. Let the Backpack Air Dry
After you clean a backpack in a washing machine, take a dry hand towel or rag and wipe out the pockets and crevices to soak up water and remove any tiny debris particles left after washing.
Never, ever put the backpack or removable pieces in the dryer! Hang the backpack or lay it in an open position to air dry completely. If fabric colors are vibrant, it’s best to keep out of direct sunlight so the colors don’t fade.
If you’re all geared up to clean your backpack but your washer is hanging you out to dry, don’t despair! Callahan’s Appliance, Inc. has your back. We provide dependable washer repair Frisco and the surrounding areas, so call us today!
