After prolonged use, our hiking backpacks can become quite dirty, so cleaning them regularly is essential. Due to the specific materials and functions, we can’t clean them like regular clothes. Here’s a detailed guide on how to properly clean your hiking backpack.
- Preparation: Remove all items inside before cleaning your hiking backpack to avoid losing anything. Pay special attention to small items like scraps of paper stuck in corners. Also, detach any removable accessories (like plush charms, straps, and hooks) from the backpack’s main body for more thorough cleaning.
- Cleaning the Exterior: Use a soft brush or damp cloth to remove dust and dirt from the surface. Then, lightly scrub the backpack with a soft brush dipped in water; for softer fabrics, you can use your hands to wash gently. You can use some neutral detergents during the cleaning process. Be sure not to use hot water, which may cause the backpack to warp or lose color.
- Cleaning the Interior: Take backpacks with removable inner structures to wash separately. Again, use a soft brush to scrub the interior gently. Make sure to clean even the pockets and corners thoroughly. Many backpacks have hard cardboard supports at the bottom or in the middle; to avoid deforming these parts, wiping them with a damp cloth instead of scrubbing them directly with water is best.
- Cleaning Detailed Components: Spend extra time on the zippers and hooks, which are often used the most. Ensure that no dirt or sand is stuck in the zippers and that the hooks are dust-free. For straps in constant contact with your skin, consider washing them a couple of extra times for a deeper clean.
- Drying: After cleaning the backpack, hanging it up to air dry naturally is best. Avoid using a washing machine to spin dry, and keep it out of direct sunlight to prevent damage.