How to Clean a Backpack
Your backpack goes everywhere you do: over muddy trails, through airports, across sandy beaches, and into alpine snowfields. Along the way, it collects more than memories: it picks up dirt, sweat, food crumbs, and the occasional mystery stain. Whether you’re cleaning a hiking backpack, travel pack, or Gregory daypack, proper care keeps it looking sharp and performing well for years.
Here’s the safe way to do it.
Step 1: Empty It Completely and do a pre-clean
- Check every pocket, zipper, and hidden compartment.
- Remove your hydration reservoir and accessories.
- Shake out loose dirt and crumbs.
Take your backpack outside and give it a few good shakes. Use a soft brush to remove dried mud from straps, seams, and zippers.
Step 2: Spot Clean Trouble Areas
Mix lukewarm water with a drop of mild, non-toxic soap. Use a sponge or cloth to clean:
- Sweat-stained shoulder straps
- Muddy bottom panels
- Food spills inside compartments
Avoid soaking foam padding as it retains moisture and dries slowly.
Step 3: Deep Clean the Fabric
- Fill a tub or large sink with lukewarm water and a small amount of mild soap.
- Submerge only as much of the pack as needed to scrub the fabric.
- Use a soft brush to lift stubborn dirt.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water until all soap is gone.
Step 4: Dry It the Right Way
After cleaning your backpack, hang it upside down in a shaded, well-ventilated area to dry. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as this can fade the fabric and weaken its materials over time. Make sure the pack is completely dry before storing it to prevent mildew or unpleasant odors from developing.
Long-Term Backpack Care Tips
- Brush dirt from zippers regularly to keep them running smoothly.
- Air the pack after sweaty trips to prevent odor buildup.
- Store in a cool, dry place. Preferably not a damp garage or hot attic.
Cleaning your Gregory backpack is simple, but it makes a huge difference in performance and longevity. Treat your pack well, and it will carry your gear, and your adventures, for years to come.
Want to extend your Gregory collection?
FAQ
Q: Can you wash a backpack?
A: Yes – but not in a washing machine. Machine washing can damage fabric coatings and seams.
Q: Can I wash a backpack raincover?
A: Raincovers should never go in the washing machine or dryer. Hand wash with mild soap and air dry completely before storing.
About the writer
Gregory Team
The Gregory team in Europe is a collective of passionate hikers, trekkers, and outdoor enthusiasts who love to spend their time on the trails. Some of us thrive on multi-day hut-to-hut hikes and thru-hiking challenges, while others prefer backpacking adventures with hostel stays and scenic day routes. What unites us is a love for the outdoors and a desire to share real experiences, trail-tested tips, and gear advice to help others discover the world one step at a time. Discover our Instagram or Facebook for fun adventures and product information.
