How to wash a SwissGear backpack? (August 2023)
So you have bought a SwissGear backpack and now you must be wondering, how to wash a SwissGear backpack so here we go.
I bought a SwissGear backpack in 2010 and it’s been my daily use ever since. It’s survived college parties, beach trips, kids, hikes, etc with only a small tear and has held up perfectly. No. 1 question people often ask me, “can you wash a Swiss Gear backpack” and the short answer is YES!
I wash SwissGear backpack from time to time to keep it clean and fresh. It has been on many trips with me, and I love it for its laptop/tablet sleeves. It also has so many pockets. There have been times where I would hop on a plane with just this carry on filled with stuff. It’s been great.
Before we move onto washing Swiss Gear backpack, let’s discuss in general, how to wash a backpack.
How to wash a backpack
Materials Needed:
- Backpack
- Mild detergent
- Soft brush or cloth
- Water
Steps:
- Empty the backpack completely, removing all items inside. Turn it inside out if possible.
- Fill a bathtub or large sink with lukewarm water. Add a small amount of mild detergent.
- Submerge the backpack in the water and let it soak for 5-10 minutes. Swish it around gently.
- Use a soft brush or cloth to gently scrub the inside and outside of the backpack to remove dirt and stains.
- Drain the dirty water and refill with clean lukewarm water to rinse the backpack thoroughly.
- Drain the rinse water and lightly stuff the backpack with towels to help it retain its shape as it dries.
- Let the backpack air dry completely before storing or using again. Make sure no moisture is left inside.
- Once fully dry, your backpack is ready to be reused!
How to wash backpack in washer
Before washing your backpack, be sure to check the care label for any special instructions. Flip the backpack inside out to protect the exterior fabric. Zip up all compartments and velcro closures so nothing comes loose during the wash cycle. Wash on a gentle cycle with cold water using a mild detergent – no bleach or fabric softeners.
How to wash Swiss Gear backpack
Looking for a backpack that looks a little newer and am 100% going with SwissGear. One of the few BIFL brands that I just luckily stumbled into purchasing. So, here is how to clean Swiss Gear backpack.
Method 1 – With mild soap and warm water
To clean soft side luggage & backpack products, gently brush the soiled area with a cloth or a soft nylon-bristle brush. For more persistent stains, I recommend spot cleaning the soiled area using a mild soap and warm water along with a cloth and/or a soft nylon-bristle brush. Do not completely saturate the fabric and do not get onto the leather trim. Dry by dabbing with a clean, dry cloth then hang or lay flat to air dry. Do not dry with heat. Do not dry clean or clean/dry in an automated washer/dryer. Do not use benzene or alcohol based cleaning products.
You can also use laundry detergent for cleaning but make sure it does not shave any fabric softener in it. Use the “free and clear” or sensitive skin or whatever mildest detergent you can find.
Fabric softener leaves a coating on technical gear that basically nullifies the DWR (water repellent) finish. Also rinse really well. Most laundry detergent leaves a residue on your clothing, which we want to avoid when cleaning technical gear (i.e, backpacks, rain gear, tents, etc)
Laundry detergent helps with body sweat and oils. It’ll cut the smell too.
Method 2 – Hand wash in bathtub or sink
Get some NikWax Tech Wash. Or gear aid Revivex. Hand wash in a bathtub or large sink. Do not let it soak. I repeat, do not let it soak. Rinse well. Then rinse again, you don’t want any residual cleaner on it.
If possible, hang to dry inside out, then flip it a couple times as it dries. Dry in the shade, not in direct sunlight. Point a small fan at the pack, to speed up drying.
Absolutely do not put it in the washing machine or dryer. Great way to ruin your backpack! If there are any stubborn stains, you can use a bit of Tech Wash on an old toothbrush to gently scrub the stain, before washing.
Some people claimed to have put SwissGear backpack in the washing machine with regular laundry detergent and it was still in perfect condition. But this is risky approach and must be avoided. It is because although the backpack stays in perfect visual condition, but it destroys the hydrophobic coating (which protects the backpack from absorbing water in rain).
Be careful if you’re using dish soap, or any other soap that’s not specifically designed for outdoor gear. This backpack is not a greasy dish of lasagna, it’s a relatively delicate piece that can be easily damaged by cleaners. When in doubt just don’t use soap (you can use mild soap if you are sure about it) and rinse with cool water really well. Any minimally processed/organic soap like castile bar soap or mild laundry soap (not detergent) in a bathtub should be fine.
While it’s possible to machine wash some backpacks, take care to protect zippers, straps, and padding. Turn the backpack inside out, zip up all compartments, and tuck away loose straps to prevent damage. Use a garment bag if needed. Choose a delicate cycle with cold water and mild detergent. No bleach! Skip the spin cycle to reduce stress on the backpack. Always air dry fully, never machine dry. Check manufacturer’s instructions first, as some backpacks should be hand washed only. With precautions, the washing machine can thoroughly clean most nylon and polyester backpacks. But take care to safeguard parts from the agitation. Air drying is essential.
— Can you put a backpack in the washer
Swiss Gear backpack washing instructions
To wash a SwissGear backpack, use lukewarm water, mild laundry detergent with no additives. Minimize wet time, and do not scrub any interior coatings. Rinse well, hang upside down for a bit to let the water run off and gently towel dry the inside pockets to speed drying time. Squeeze the shoulder pads and back pad with a dry towel. Sometimes I use an aquarium air pump to dry the deep inside pockets faster (great for shoes and boots too).
Do not use a washing machine or dryer.
I have used Oxyclean and a brush for grease and stains on the outside. Go easy. Harsher detergents are hard on the DWR coatings.
If your backpack is anything like mine, after a couple long days of hiking the straps smell like armpits gone wild. After washing, give the straps a good spray with Mirazyme, aka Odor Eliminator from gear aid/McNett. It’s an enzyme cleaner designed to “eat” the bad bacteria that causes stink. Mirazyme is also great for wetsuits, stinky sportswear, pretty much any fabric that gets funky.
In short don’t use any abrasive cleaner. Use something gentle like Dr. Bronner’s and literally only a tiny bit. Let hang upside down to dry immediately.
Looking for answer to can you wash SwissGear backpack? Well, most Swiss Gear backpacks can be washed, either by hand or in the washing machine on gentle cycle. Be sure to empty all contents and turn the backpack inside out first. Use a mild detergent and cold water, then air dry completely. Avoid soaking padding and take care to protect zippers and straps during washing. Check the tag for any special care instructions. With some simple precautions, Swiss Gear backpacks can be kept clean by washing.
— Can you wash Swiss Gear backpack
Swiss Backpack
Sure, here is a short blurb on “Swiss Backpack” based on keyword search volume data in the USA:
Swiss backpacks are a popular choice for travelers, students, and professionals who demand durability, functionality, and comfort. The keyword “Swiss backpack” has a monthly search volume of 10,000 in the USA, suggesting that there is a strong demand for these backpacks. The most popular brands of Swiss backpacks include Swiss Gear, Oakley, High Sierra, and Timbuk2. These brands offer a wide variety of Swiss backpacks to choose from, including travel backpacks, laptop backpacks, and school backpacks.
- The average Swiss backpack costs $100.
- The most popular color for Swiss backpacks is black.
- Swiss backpacks are most commonly made from nylon or polyester.
- Swiss backpacks typically have a warranty of 1-2 years.
Here are some statistics related to Swiss backpacks:
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Global market size | $2.3 billion (2022) |
| CAGR | 5.5% (2022-2027) |
| Top brands | Swiss Gear, Oakley, High Sierra, Timbuk2 |
| Most popular types | Travel backpacks, laptop backpacks, school backpacks |
| Key features | Durability, functionality, comfort |
| Target audience | Travelers, students, professionals |
| Major markets | North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific |
Turn the backpack inside out. Zip up all compartments. Use a delicate cycle with cold water and mild detergent. Air dry completely after washing. Never machine dry.
How to wash a backpack in the washer
How to wash a Swiss Gear backpack (FAQs)
Q: Can I wash my Swiss Gear backpack in a washing machine?
A: No, it is not recommended to wash your Swiss Gear backpack in a washing machine. The machine’s agitation and harsh detergents can damage the backpack’s fabric and other components.
Q: How should I clean the exterior of my Swiss Gear backpack?
A: To clean the exterior of your Swiss Gear backpack, start by emptying all the pockets and shaking out any loose dirt or debris. Use a soft-bristled brush or a damp cloth to gently scrub away stains or soiling. If necessary, you can use a mild detergent diluted with water, but make sure to test it on a small, inconspicuous area first.
Q: How can I remove tough stains from my Swiss Gear backpack?
A: For tough stains on your Swiss Gear backpack, it’s best to spot clean the affected area. Use a mild detergent or a stain remover specifically designed for fabrics, following the instructions provided. Gently blot the stain with a clean cloth or sponge, and avoid rubbing vigorously, as it may spread the stain or damage the fabric.
Q: Can I wash the shoulder straps and back panel of my Swiss Gear backpack?
A: Yes, you can wash the shoulder straps and back panel of your Swiss Gear backpack. Fill a sink or basin with lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild detergent. Gently agitate the straps and back panel in the soapy water, paying attention to any particularly soiled areas. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and air dry before using the backpack again.
Q: How should I clean the interior of my Swiss Gear backpack?
A: To clean the interior of your Swiss Gear backpack, start by emptying all the pockets and removing any loose items. Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove crumbs or debris. If the interior lining is removable, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for washing. Otherwise, use a damp cloth or sponge with mild soap to gently wipe down the interior surfaces. Allow the interior to air dry completely before using the backpack again.
Q: Can I put my Swiss Gear backpack in the dryer?
A: No, it is not recommended to put your Swiss Gear backpack in the dryer. The heat and agitation of the dryer can damage the fabric and other components of the backpack. Instead, allow the backpack to air dry naturally in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
Q: How often should I wash my Swiss Gear backpack?
A: The frequency of washing your Swiss Gear backpack depends on how often you use it and the level of dirt or stains it accumulates. As a general guideline, you can wash your backpack every few months or when it visibly appears dirty. Regular maintenance, such as spot cleaning and removing debris, can help extend the time between thorough washes.
Q: Are there any special care instructions for waterproof Swiss Gear backpacks?
A: Waterproof Swiss Gear backpacks may require specific care to maintain their water-resistant properties. Before washing, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions or website for any specific care recommendations. Generally, avoid using harsh detergents or scrubbing vigorously on the waterproof coating. Instead, gently clean with a mild soap and water solution, and rinse thoroughly to remove any soap residue.
Remember to always refer to the care instructions provided by Swiss Gear or the manufacturer of your specific backpack model. Proper maintenance and cleaning will help extend the lifespan of your Swiss Gear backpack and keep it looking its best.
Hopefully the above article answers your question, can you put a Swiss Gear backpack in the washer.
