How to Wash Backpacks

Back-to-school season comes with a long checklist, but cleaning last year's backpack is one of the easiest ways to make everything feel fresh again.

Before you spend money replacing a backpack that still has plenty of life left, try giving it a deep clean. Most backpacks wash up surprisingly well, and the whole process only takes a few minutes of hands-on time.

Supplies You'll Need

• Borax
• OxiClean
• Washing machine
• Hanger or drying rack

Click here to shop all of the supplies that I used!

Step 1: Empty the Backpack Completely

Start by checking every pocket (yes, every single one!).

Remove:

• Papers
• Crumbs
• Pens and pencils
• Lunchbox leftovers
• Any other forgotten treasures from the school year

This is also a great time to shake the backpack upside down outside to get rid of loose dirt and debris.

Step 2: Remove Keychains and Accessories

Take off any keychains, zipper charms, clips, or accessories before washing.

These items can get damaged in the wash or snag on the backpack during the cycle.

Step 3: Soak the Backpack

Fill a sink, tub, or large container with warm water.

Add Borax and OxiClean according to the package directions, then let the backpack soak for a while. (I soaked for 1 hour).

This helps loosen dirt, remove stains, and freshen up the fabric before it goes into the washing machine.

If there are any especially dirty spots, you can gently scrub them with a soft brush after soaking.

Step 4: Wash in the Washing Machine

Place the backpack in your washing machine and wash it on a gentle cycle with cold water.

Using a gentle cycle helps protect straps, zippers, and seams while still giving the backpack a thorough cleaning.

Step 5: Hang to Dry

Skip the dryer.

Instead, hang the backpack to air dry completely before using it again. Dryers can damage coatings, warp plastic pieces, or cause shrinkage, so air drying is the safest option.

Once it's dry, reattach the keychains, pack up the school supplies, and it's ready for another school year.

Tips for the Best Results

• Always check the care tag first if your backpack has one.
• Wash backpacks before packing school supplies inside.
• Clean lunch boxes and water bottles at the same time so everything starts the year fresh.
• If your child uses the same backpack all year, consider giving it another wash over winter break.

Backpacks get dragged across playgrounds, stuffed in lockers, tossed into cars, and forgotten on the floor all year long. Giving them a quick deep clean is an easy way to make back-to-school feel a little more organized without spending money on something new.

It's one of those simple tasks that makes the first day of school feel just a little fresher—for both you and your kids.