This is How To Keep Your Backpack Smelling Fresh

Backpacks are especially made of unbreathable fabric such as nylon and polyester capable of trapping all kinds of odors. So, in this article, we will provide you with every way on how to keep your backpack smelling fresh.

A backpack tends to absorb odors emanating from its environment, its contents, accidental spills, and even the natural perspiration of its wearer. While it may require some effort and attention, restoring the backpack to a fresh, pleasant scent is entirely achievable.

Washable Bags

1. Refer to the care tag for machine-washability

• Some bags, particularly backpacks and gym bags made of nylon or polyester, are machine-washable.
• Check the bag label for specific instructions such as “Machine Wash” text or a symbol depicting a bucket of water, indicating machine washability.
• Most gym bags and backpacks are typically safe for machine washing, but it’s essential to double-check the label for confirmation.
• Handbags are generally not designed for machine washing.
• Washing tags may feature a symbol with a bucket of water and a hand, signifying handwash only.
• A symbol depicting a bucket of water with an X over it implies “do not wash,” indicating that the item is dry-clean only.

2. Remove any solid material

• Before putting the bag in the washing machine, ensure there are no items inside.
• Turn the bag upside down.
• Shake the bag to clear out any debris or contents.

3. Machine-wash the bag on a regular cycle

• Wash the bag separately from other laundry items to prevent damage or tangling.
• Before washing, zip up any zippers on the bag to prevent them from getting caught or damaged during the wash cycle.
• Use regular detergent and set the washing machine to a standard wash cycle with warm water.
• Remove any attachments, such as detachable straps, before placing the bag in the washing machine.
• Optionally, wash these attachments separately if desired.

4. Add ½ cup (120 mL) white vinegar to rinse cycle for odor removal

• White vinegar possesses odor-fighting properties.
• During the rinse cycle of the washing machine, pour in 1⁄2 cup (120 mL) of white vinegar to eliminate any remaining odors.
• Adding vinegar is optional as regular detergent may effectively eliminate odors.

5. Fully air-dry the bag before use to avoid musty odors

• Avoid using the dryer for most bags as they are typically not safe for drying.
• Opt instead to air-dry the bag by placing it outside in a well-ventilated area.
• Open the bag to ensure the inside dries thoroughly, preventing a lingering musty smell.
• For quicker drying, you can use a hair dryer on a low setting, although air-drying is generally preferable to avoid potential damage.

Non-Washable Bags

1. Air out the bag outdoors

At times, simply airing out the bag can alleviate odors. Unzip it and place it outside for a day. Periodically check for improvement in scent. If noticeable, additional odor-masking steps may be unnecessary.

• Choose a pleasant, dry day to air out the bag to avoid it getting wet in the rain.
• Alternatively, consider leaving the bag in a sheltered area such as your garage with the door open or on a covered porch to achieve the same airing effect.
• After airing out, bring the bag back inside to truly assess its smell as odors might not be fully noticeable outdoors.

2. Use a vinegar solution to wipe the inside of the bag for odor removal

Create a solution of equal parts warm water and white vinegar. Add a drop of dish soap to create suds. Dampen a clean sponge or rag with the mixture and scrub the bag’s interior, reapplying as necessary.

• Ensure that the sponge used for cleaning isn’t soaked but only damp.
• If uncertain about the bag’s material, apply a small amount of the cleaning solution to a hidden area and let it sit for a few minutes. If there’s no discoloration or damage, it should be safe for the rest of the bag.
• Another option is to fill a spray bottle with plain vinegar and lightly spritz the inside of the bag for odor removal.

3. Use a store-bought deodorizing spray if odor persists

• Open the bag and spray a commercial odor eliminator, such as unscented Febreze or Lysol, inside the bag.
• Keep the bag open to allow for proper ventilation and let it air out.
• After the spray dries, check to see if the odor has been eliminated.
• While scented products can be used, be cautious as the scent may be overpowering.
• When cleaning a handbag, only spray the interior to avoid potential marks, especially if the bag is made of leather.

4. Sprinkle baking soda in the bag to absorb odors

Utilize baking soda to neutralize odors within your bags, just as it works throughout your home. Either sprinkle it directly into the bag or place some in a plastic bag, leaving it open inside the bag. Seal the bag and allow the baking soda several hours to absorb the odors effectively.

5. Leave kitty litter in the bag for a week to absorb odors

• Utilize kitty litter as a deodorizer by placing some in a cup or open plastic container within the bag.
• Seal the bag shut and allow the kitty litter to absorb the odor for up to a week.
• Position the bag in a secure location to prevent spills. If the kitty litter spills, it may be challenging to remove it entirely from the bag.

6. Use dry coffee grounds for potpourri effect

Harness the odor-absorbing power of coffee grounds while enjoying their pleasant aroma to mask any remaining smells. Half-fill a coffee filter with dry coffee grounds, twist the top, and secure it with a rubber band. Place it inside the bag, seal it, and leave it overnight to assess the improvement in odor.

7. Place a dryer sheet in the bag to mask lingering odors

• If cleaning and deodorizing efforts don’t fully eliminate the odors, leaving a dryer sheet in the bag can help mask any remaining smells.
• Open the dryer sheet and spread it on the bottom of the bag to allow its scent to permeate.
• Replace the old dryer sheet with a new one when the fresh smell begins to fade, ensuring continuous odor control.