Backpacks are a necessity for many people, whether you’re carrying textbooks to class or hiking up a mountain. On the daily, it keeps your lunch safe while you're on the go, and on the weekends, you can use it to head out for an overnight trip.

Once in a while, when you spot a stain or two, it's time to clean your backpack. Not sure where to start? This guide has tips you need to know about cleaning and maintaining your backpack and helping it stay looking new for years.

First, Ccheck the Manufacturer's Washing Instructions

When you're deciding whether to clean the inside of your backpack, a good rule of thumb is to check the tag on the inside pocket or label on the bag itself—many bags will come with instructions regarding washing them. If they don't, there probably isn't any reason not to use conventional laundry detergent (like Dreft).

Be sure not to put your backpack in the washer unless it specifically says it's okay—this will damage the bag. Always hand.

Wash The Backpack by Hand

1.Preparation

Before you start, make sure you've got these things ready.

• A mild soap or detergent (one that has no fragrances or other additives)
• Clean sponge or washcloth
• Soft-bristled (not stiff) brush (like an old toothbrush)
• Old towels

2.Washing

Follow these 4 easy steps for a perfect backpack cleaning 

STEP 1: Empty the backpack.

First, make sure that no essentials are in your backpack. Then, shake it upside down to get out sand and dirt. It also helps to vacuum along the inner and outer seams. Next, remove any metal frames and detachable straps and hip belts.

STEP 2: Wipe away visible dirt.

Mix a teaspoon of detergent with lukewarm water and use a soft-bristled brush or sponge to remove any visible stains.

STEP 3: Gently wash the backpack

To wash your pack, fill a bathtub or large sink with lukewarm water and mild detergent or soap. If possible, submerge the backpack in the water. Scrub both the inside and outside of the pack with a sponge or brush. Be gentle with mesh pockets.

STEP 4: Rinse the backpack

After cleaning your backpack with soap, rinse it thoroughly with clean, cool water. If you cleaned it with a sponge or cloth and did not submerge it in water, soak a sponge with clean water and wipe over the backpack to remove detergent residue.

3.Drying

When you're finished washing the backpack, pat it with an old towel to get rid of excess moisture. Hang up the pack to air dry and never put it in the dryer or the heat can ruin fabric and accessories like zipper pulls.

Tips for maintaining your backpack

1.Avoid overpacking.

Packing too much can damage your backpack, causing seams to split, shoulder straps to break and zippers to malfunction. We've written an article on how to pack your backpack that may help.

2.Regular cleaning

It's recommended that you should clean your backpack regularly or when it gets very dirty, but don't clean it too often. It's best to use mild soap, warm water, and a soft brush or sponge to clean it. Avoid using a hard brush or machine wash. In short, we should clean our backpack gently and regularly.

3.Maintain the zippers

Zippers are one of the most commonly used parts of any backpack. Maintaining them properly can help your backpack last longer. There are three things to keep in mind when caring for a backpack's zipper. First, don't use force when pulling it; second, clean it regularly; and third, oil or wax it regularly so that it works smoothly and lasts longer.

Conclusion

That's it! Now that you know the steps to cleaning your backpack and maintaining its condition, you can prolong its life and make sure it stays in good shape for as long as possible. The best part is that both of these processes are relatively easy to complete, even if you're a bit of a neat freak. By following our advice, you should be able to keep your backpack in great shape for many years to come.