How to Wash Backpacking Pack Properly: 13 Easy Steps for a Fresh, Long-Lasting Bag

How to wash backpacking pack properly without damaging it. Follow these simple, effective steps to keep your pack clean, odor-free, and trail-ready.

How to Wash Backpacking Pack Properly

Ever opened your backpacking pack after a trip and nearly passed out from the smell? 😅

If you’ve been hiking or camping, you know sweat, dirt, and food crumbs build up fast. If you don’t clean it right, it smells bad and can damage your gear.

Let’s learn how to wash your backpacking pack properly. This way, it stays fresh and ready for your next adventure. Whether you’ve been on a muddy trail or a dusty desert hike, this guide has you covered.

Why Properly Washing Your Pack Matters

Think cleaning is optional? Think again. Skipping it can lead to:

• Stains Set In and become permanent
• Zippers Jam due to dirt and grit buildup
• Fabrics Break Down from sweat and bacteria
• Funky Odors become impossible to remove

Regular cleaning extends your gear’s life and keeps it clean. No one wants mold in their pack. 🤢

🧼 When Should You Clean Your Backpack?

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Condition	When to Clean
Light dust or dirt	Spot clean after each trip
Muddy or stained	Deep clean ASAP
Sweat-soaked or smelly	Wash thoroughly post-trip
Exposed to salt water/sand	Rinse immediately after use

Pro tip: Always check the manufacturer’s care label before washing. Some packs have special coatings or materials that need gentle handling.

Quick Overview: 13 Steps to Wash a Backpacking Pack

1. Empty everything
2. Remove detachable parts
3. Shake out crumbs and dirt
4. Vacuum hard-to-reach spots
5. Spot clean stains
6. Fill a tub with lukewarm water
7. Use a mild soap (not detergent!)
8. Submerge and scrub gently
9. Clean zippers and buckles
10. Rinse thoroughly
11. Pat with a towel to remove excess water
12. Air dry completely (no sun!)
13. Reassemble and store properly

1. Empty It Completely

You’d be surprised what hides in those pockets. 🍫 Forgotten snacks, crumpled maps, or even that headlamp you swore you lost? Take everything out—every zipper, pouch, and sleeve. Shake out debris and check for small items that might’ve slipped into corners.

2. Detach the Frame and Removable Parts

If your pack has a metal frame, hip belt, or hydration system, go ahead and remove them. These pieces often need to be cleaned separately—or not at all. Hydration bladders, for example, require special care.

3. Shake It Out & Vacuum Inside

Turn the bag upside down and give it a few good shakes. You can also use a handheld vacuum or brush to get crumbs out of tight seams and corners.

4. Spot Clean with a Soft Brush

Got dirt around the bottom or near the zippers? Use a toothbrush or sponge with warm water and a bit of gentle soap. Stay away from harsh chemicals or bleach. They can harm the water-resistant coating.

5. Fill a Tub (Not the Washing Machine!) 🛁

Don’t use the washer. It’s too rough for the stitching and straps. Instead, fill a bathtub or big sink with lukewarm water. Mix in mild, non-detergent soap (like Dr. Bronner’s or Nikwax Tech Wash).

6. Soak and Gently Agitate

Put the bag in the water completely. Let it soak for 15–30 minutes. Then, gently scrub the fabric with your brush or cloth.

Pay extra attention to:

• Shoulder straps
• Back padding
• Bottom of the bag
• Inside compartments

These spots get the grossest over time.

7. Clean Zippers and Buckles

Zippers can trap dirt and sand, making them stick. Clean the teeth with a soft brush or an old toothbrush. Rinse with water. Don’t forget buckles—they collect grime too!

💡 Tip: Zip all the zippers and close Velcro straps before washing to keep them from snagging.

8. Rinse Thoroughly

Drain the soapy water and rinse the pack under running water until no suds are left. Soap residue can irritate your skin and attract more dirt next time you use it.

9. Pat Dry with a Towel

Use an old towel to soak up the water. Don’t twist or wring out the bag. It can damage the structure and fabric.

10. Air Dry in the Shade 🌤️

Hang it upside down in a well-ventilated area (like your porch or laundry room). Avoid direct sunlight. UV rays can fade the colors and break down the fabric over time.

Drying DOs	Drying DON’Ts
Hang upside down for airflow	No dryers or heat sources 🔥
Let it dry fully (takes 24–48 hrs)	Don’t store it damp (mold alert!)

11. Check for Leftover Dirt or Damage

Once it’s dry, check your pack. Are the zippers moving freely? Any tears or fraying straps? Now’s the perfect time for a quick repair. A clean pack is easier to fix than a dirty one.

12. Reassemble & Repack

Put back any parts you removed earlier—frames, belts, or hydration sleeves. Give it one last shake, and you’re good to go!

13. Store It Properly

Store your clean pack in a cool, dry place. Not in your garage or attic where it might get musty. Keep it partially unzipped to let air circulate.

🚫 Common Backpack Washing Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t ruin your gear! Here are the biggest mistakes to avoid:

• Using bleach or harsh detergents
• Throwing it in a washing machine
• Drying in direct sunlight or a dryer
• Forgetting to rinse soap completely
• Packing it away while it’s damp

🧽 What Kind of Soap Should You Use?

Choose something gentle and non-detergent:

Safe Soaps	Avoid These
Dr. Bronner’s	Tide, Gain, etc.
Nikwax Tech Wash	Bleach or ammonia
Mild dish soap	Fabric softeners

🤔 Can You Machine Wash a Backpack?

Short answer: No. Even if it says “machine-washable,” it’s risky. Washing machines can harm the frame and straps. Always hand wash unless it says you can machine wash it.

🧼 How Often Should You Wash Your Pack?

Here’s a simple guide:

• After every big trip: If it’s dirty or sweaty
• Every 3–6 months: For regular hikers
• Annually: If you only use it sometimes

🧭 “A clean pack doesn’t just look better—it lasts longer and feels better on your back.”

Final Thoughts: Clean Pack, Clear Mind

Cleaning your backpack doesn’t have to be hard. With a little time and the right tools, your gear will last for years. It’s worth it. Your pack will look and feel great on your next adventure.

So, don’t just throw it away. Give it a quick clean. Your future self and hiking friends will be grateful!

❓FAQs

1. Can I use dish soap to clean my hiking backpack?
Yes—but only if it’s mild and non-scented. Avoid strong or bleachy soaps.

2. What if my pack smells bad even after cleaning?
Try soaking it in warm water with a cup of baking soda overnight. Then, rinse it well.

3. Can I dry my backpack in the dryer?
No! The heat can damage the fabric and coatings. Always air dry.

4. Is it okay to wash a backpack with a hydration bladder inside?
No, remove the bladder first. It needs a different cleaning method.

5. How do I clean mold or mildew from my backpack?
Mix water and white vinegar (1:1 ratio) and scrub the mold. Rinse well and air dry.