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Whether hiking, climbing, travelling or in everyday life: a rucksack is constantly in use. And just as often exposed to dirt, sweat or weather. To ensure that it remains your companion for a long time and that you maintain its function and durability, it is important that you clean and care for your backpack regularly. We’ll show you step by step how to clean, wash and dry your rucksack properly.
To Start: the most important FAQs
How often should I wash my backpack
Ideally, whenever you have been travelling for a long time and your rucksack has had to soak up a lot of sweat and dirt after a hike or bike tour. If it has only had a few splashes of dirt, it is sufficient to wipe it briefly with a damp cloth. If it is more dirty and the salt marks are bigger, it should be put in the shower.
Why should i wash my backpack?
If you want to clean your backpack, it’s not just about the look. Dirt, bacteria and sweat residue can damage the material and carrying system in the long term. Every material benefits from proper and regular care so that it remains functional and comfortable to wear for a long time.
Whether after biking or hiking, if your rucksack is particularly dirty, you should clean it. Photo: Deuter/Stefan Voitl
Can I wash my backpack in the washing machine?
Please don’t! This is because rubbing in the washing machine can damage the material and the coatings in the long term. In addition, detergent residues can remain, which can quickly lead to skin irritation if you have sensitive skin, e.g. on the shoulder straps. And, according to Deuter, a chemical reaction between sweat, detergent residues and UV radiation promotes the faster decomposition of the materials.
Clean your rucksack: our step-by-step guide
1. Preparation is everything
Before you start, you should empty the rucksack completely. Pay attention to small compartments, cracks and removable parts. The more thoroughly you proceed, the better the result will be. At the same time, remove the rain cover from your rucksack.
2. Dry Pre-cleaning
You can remove heavy dirt with a soft brush or a dry cloth. This makes subsequent cleaning with water much easier.
If your rucksack is a little dirty after hiking, you can first remove it with a damp cloth. Photo: Deuter/Sam Ferguson
3. Wash your backpack properly – but handwashing please!
This is the right way to do it:
- Place your rucksack in a bowl, tub or bath (depending on its size) full of lukewarm water and wash it with pH-neutral soap or shower gel.
- Use a soft brush to remove dirt and clean the inside and outside thoroughly but carefully.
4. Rinsing & drying
After cleaning the rucksack, you should rinse thoroughly with clear water to ensure that no soap residue remains. Then leave to air dry well – in a shady, well-ventilated place. Heat, sun or tumble dryers are taboo!
Tips for care after cleaning
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Check zips regularly and treat with silicone spray if necessary.
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Impregnate if the material has become more permeable due to moisture or dirt.
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After cleaning your rucksack, take a look at the buckles, seams and straps – minor damage can often be easily repaired.
Not only hiking or biking backpacks benefit from cleaning, children’s backpacks also benefit from regular care. Photo: Deuter/Julian Bueckers
Conclusion: Cleaning your backpack is worthwhile
If you clean your rucksack regularly, you will not only ensure that it is comfortable to wear, but you will also extend the life of your rucksack. You don’t even need any special equipment. A little water, mild soap and some time are enough and you can experience many, many more adventures with your rucksack.
🔁 Our tip: Clean your backpack briefly after every longer tour – this saves time and hassle in the long term.
