There aren’t too many items out there that get the daily abuse that a backpack gets. Hot sun, rain, leaky lunchboxes and sweaty gym clothes are just some of the things that are thrown at backpacks each day. Given the daily grind that a backpack can take, it’s important to know how to properly take care of your trusty travel companion to ensure that it lasts the distance.

With all of the zips, cords, pockets, straps and different materials it can be confusing trying to figure out the best way to wash a canvas backpack. To make your life a little less confusing when it is time to give your backpack a freshen-up, we’ve listed out a few ways to make washing a canvas backpack easier.

These tips will also work for most canvas duffle bags and tote bags.

What is the backpack made of?

Most backpacks are made with durable materials like canvas to ensure that they can stand up to scuffs, scrapes and moisture. Different materials require slightly different cleaning products and methods. If your backpack comes with a cleaning guide or a tag with cleaning instructions, it’s always best to take the advice of the manufacturer.

For this post we’ll be focusing on how to clean a canvas backpack like our Pacific Daypack, made with 100% cotton canvas and plenty of storage for days on the go.

Occasional Cleaning is Important

Cleaning your backpack will help you get the best out of your canvas backpack and keep it looking great and lasting as long as it should. Frequent use, along with dust, dirt, moisture and stains can wear away at canvas. If you use your backpack daily, frequent cleaning will remove these impurities and maintain the integrity and appearance of the backpack.

Machine Washing vs. Hand Washing

Remember to always check any leaflets or tags that come with your canvas backpack for details on the correct washing techniques. If you are without this information, it’s time to consider a few factors.

Machine washing is more convenient and removes the chances of spilling water and cleaners when scrubbing away. However, there is an increased risk of damage to the bag through machine washing. With zips, cords and straps there are a lot of moving parts that can be twisted, tangled and torn in spin cycle process.

Hand washing may take more time however it is a gentler way to wash your canvas bag and gives better control over the cleaning process.

Maintaining Zips, Straps and Buckles

Cleaning all of the components of your bag will ensure that it stays looking great and working as it should. Use a soft cloth and mild cleaning solution to revive hardware like buckles, buttons and any other metal pieces. Avoid harsh cleaning products that could eat away at the integrity of the components and cause further damage. Cleaning these littles bits and pieces will go a long way towards your canvas backpacks lifespan.

Proper Storage and Drying

You have gone to all of that effort to wash your canvas backpack, so it’s now important to take some time to dry it correctly.

Properly drying your canvas backpack after a wash will ensure that all of the components, nooks and crevasses are thoroughly dried. These tips for drying your canvas backpack will go a long towards extending the lifespan of the materials.

Drying Your Canvas Backpack

There are a few ways to dry a canvas backpack, the most common method is to let the bag dry naturally in sunlight. Hand the bag from a clothesline or hanger by the straps to help maintain the shape of the bag. Open the zips to allow airflow through all the compartments.

If the bag needed a decent soaking, make sure to turn the backpack upside down to drain any excess moisture from the compartments before you start the natural drying process. Use paper towel or a cloth to gently wipe away moisture from inside the bag to quicken the drying of the backpack.

Properly Storing a Canvas Backpack

If your backpack is used often, it’s unlikely that you will want to store it away for too long. For backpacks used daily, store the bag in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Do not hang the bag by the straps if you tend to keep items in the backpack as a heavier backpack may stretch the straps.

If you plan on stowing away your canvas backpack for an extended period, consider using a dust bag. Place the backpack into a breathable dust bag to protect it from light and dust. Before placing into the dust bag – stuff the bag with tissue paper or a dry towel to help maintain the shape of the backpack.

There you have it, a few tips to keep your canvas backpack in tip-top shape for many adventures to come. If you’re planning on a longer journey, check out our travel bags and luggage for soft-shell luggage and hard-shell luggage.