CLEANING CARE

EXTEND THE LIFE OF YOUR BACKPACK WITH THE RIGHT CARE

  • Your backpack is your trusted companion on many adventures. But with regular care and cleaning, you can ensure it lasts as long as possible. So, here are some practical tips on how to wash, dry, waterproof, and store your backpack.

    - When to wash a backpack
    - Washing the backpack correctly
    - Washing machine for cleaning backpacks?
    - Drying a backpack
    - Backpack impregnation
    - Caring for a trail running vest

WHEN IS IT TIME TO WASH YOUR BACKPACK?

Although backpacks aren't worn against the skin like our clothes, over time and on longer hikes, they can get dirty. If your backpack is very dirty or sweaty, washing it is essential. But if it's only lightly soiled, or if the dirt is superficial, like mud or pollen particles, you can simply wipe it down with a damp cloth. Note: It's easiest to remove dirt when it's still fresh, right after your hike. If your backpack is dirtier, be sure to wash it properly. And if you used the included rain cover, be sure to wipe it down with a damp cloth and let it dry completely before storing.

WASH YOUR BACKPACK CAREFULLY AND REMOVE ANY DIRT

If you've been hiking a lot during the summer months, it's normal for your backpack to get dirty and sweat-stained. If you want to remove dirt from your Deuter backpack, there are a few things to keep in mind: Never wash a backpack in the washing machine . This is because abrasion puts stress on the material (and the PU coating) and can damage it in the long run. Additionally, there's often residue left by detergents, which can lead to skin irritation if you have sensitive skin. The chemical reaction between sweat, detergent residue, and UV rays also accelerates the decomposition of materials. Washing a backpack can also cause colors to fade—especially if you wash the rain cover along with your backpack. Heat and humidity can release the color and allow it to transfer to other materials—similar to washing colored clothing.

WHAT IS THE CORRECT WAY TO WASH MY BACKPACK?

Here's how to clean your backpack as gently as possible. First, remove the rain cover and set it aside. Then, depending on its size, place the backpack in a basin or bathtub filled with warm water and wash it with pH-neutral soap or shower gel. Dirt stains on the backpack can be easily removed with a brush. Wash salt stains on the carrying system by squeezing it several times by hand with plenty of soap and water. Then, let the backpack dry completely. Store it in a well-ventilated, dry place.

Our backrest systems are not designed to be assembled and removed, so we do not recommend removing the frame or rods for cleaning. Based on our experience, it is not possible to remove and install the backrest system correctly without professional assistance. This could cause irreparable damage to your backpack/product.

Remove/detach the rain cover from the backpack before washing. Do not submerge the rain cover in water, as this may affect the durable water-repellent (DWR) finish or seam seals. Even hand-washing water at 30°C or higher can cause colors to fade. Therefore, it is important to remove the rain cover before washing the backpack and, if necessary, wipe it with a damp cloth.
After cleaning, always make sure your raincoat is completely dry before storing it. This will also prevent any paint from bleeding over time.

CAN I USE A WASHING MACHINE? THE CORRECT WAY TO CLEAN YOUR BACKPACK

Here's how to wash your backpack carefully. First, remove the rain cover. Then, depending on the size of your backpack, submerge it in a bucket or tub of warm water and wash with pH-neutral soap or shower gel. Stubborn dirt can be removed with a brush. Salt deposits on the back system can be removed by pressing the padding with your hand, repeatedly, with plenty of water. Then, let it dry in a dry, well-ventilated place.

  1. Completely empty the backpack after each use. Remove dirt with a brush and soapy water.
  2. Never machine wash your backpack or put it in the dryer, as this will damage the PU coating.
  3. Backpack materials should not be ironed.
  4. Always make sure zippers are free of dirt.

DRY YOUR BACKPACK WELL AND STORE IT CORRECTLY

Drying your backpack properly isn't just important after washing it, but also after a long day outside. It will have absorbed sweat and may even have experienced rain showers. Therefore, it's important to air it out properly.

  1. Open all zippers and place your backpack in a dry place or hang it upside down.
  2. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight or near a heat source such as electric heaters or open fire.
  3. Store your backpack in a dry place, such as a closet—avoiding damp basements—and with all buckles and straps fastened.
  4. Remember to make sure your raincoat is completely dry after each use and before storing it. Otherwise, the colors may fade or the fabric may become damaged.

TIPS ON HOW TO CLEAN YOUR BACKPACK

When does a backpack need to be washed?

If your backpack has gotten sweaty or very dirty, for example, after a long hike, washing it is inevitable. If you notice only light, superficial dirt, such as small splashes of dirt or pollen, simply clean your backpack or raincoat immediately after your hike. All you need is a damp cloth. If there is more dirt, you may need to wash your backpack properly.

Can I wash my backpack in the washing machine?

If you want to remove dirt from your backpack, keep the following in mind: Backpacks should not be washed in the washing machine. This causes abrasion to the material and PU coating, causing long-term damage. Additionally, detergent residue often remains. For sensitive skin, this can cause irritation on the straps, for example. A chemical reaction from sweat, detergent residue, and UV radiation also promotes faster material degradation. Also, do not wash your rain cover in the washing machine.