How to Clean a School Backpack

Step one: Remove everything that doesn't belong

Before you start cleaning the backpack, remove all the parts that shouldn't come into contact with water. Take off the badges and the rain cover, pull out the aluminium bar from the back system and, if you own an Active Air FLX model, take out the air cushion. 

If you have a backpack with an additional light, remove it together with the electronics inside. How? Undo the small screw on the side of the light and turn the frame anticlockwise.

Step two: Find the right cleaner and sponges

The road to a clean backpack starts with the right cleaning products and tools. To clean stains, use a mild, non-aggressive detergent. Soap or a liquid detergent for delicates will do the job nicely. Clean the backpack with a damp cloth or sponge. 

Step three: Clean gently

School backpacks don't belong in the washing machine. The only recommended way to wash them is by hand. First rinse the backpack with water, then grab a cloth and remove stains with a mild detergent along with any other dirt. For heavy soiling, bring out the big guns. Stains are reliably and gently removed by ox-gall soap. Finally, rinse the whole backpack with lukewarm water and leave it to dry. Avoid drying it in a tumble dryer or in direct sunlight, as both could damage the backpack. Before storing it, make sure the backpack is completely dry to prevent mould.

How to prevent dirt in the first place?

The best weapon, however, is prevention. We all know the mischief a forgotten snack or an uncapped felt-tip pen can cause. That's why you should check the contents of the backpack regularly. Also stick to the maximum load capacity to prevent loosened seams and damaged zips. With the right care, you can significantly extend the life of the backpack, which is well worth it.