How to Wash a Swiss Gear Backpack – Ultimate Guide

Whether you’re a hiker, a handyman, or just an average college student, SwissGear is one popular brand among backpack users. With the durable and water-resistant material also comes the age-old question of how to wash a Swiss Gear backpack.

Because of their high-end quality, these backpacks often become victims of harsh handling which can lead to some unpleasant stains and dirt on a backpack. These not only are super unhygienic to carry around but also unpleasant to look at. For this reason, we present a thorough guide on getting that adventure partner of yours clean.

In case you are a holder of the Fjallraven backpack, we got you covered as well. Here is how to wash Fjallraven’s backpack for you.

Understanding Your Swiss Gear Backpack:

Swiss gear backpacks are primarily known for their hardcore material and high-strength design. But to wash it most effectively, you need to know about the backpack itself. The material that the backpack is made up of can be especially vulnerable if treated with harsh chemicals.

That and the fact that it is prone to getting dirty quickly makes it a tricky backpack to maintain. But with the right technique, we will explain to you how to keep your Swiss gear backpack neat and clean.

Essentials of Washing Swiss Gear Backpack:

First things first. Before getting into cleaning your backpack, you need to have a list of items that can be used

1. Wash basin/ Container/ washing machine
2. Detergent
3. Disinfectant (If needed)
4. Stain remover
5. Washcloth

Preparing For Washing Swiss Gear Backpack:

Now whether you are hand washing your backpack or putting it in a machine, you do have to prepare it for the best possible outcomes. Follow these steps and you’ll be good to go.

Evaluating and Identifying Specific Stains or Dirt:

The foremost step that should not be neglected in any case is reading the instructions on the backpack itself because the techniques vary slightly for all backpacks. So, with that wise start, you would be able to look for the things that are suitable for the backpack and its material. Then you need to go on identifying the stains that are on the backpack to clean them out first. The Bottom and the front of the backpack have the most concentrated of the stains so try to tackle them first.

Remove Everything:

Before you go on soak the backpack in water. Make sure to double-check every pocket and take out all the little valuables to keep them safe. Once you do it, turn the backpack upside down and shake it to get off any dirt or debris.

Spot Cleaning For Minor Stains:

Lastly, spot clean the stains, so you have a smoother washing experience. Identify what kind of stains are prominent and then choose an appropriate cleaning agent. Apply the cleaning solution and gently scrub the affected area. Repeat for all stained areas and you will be good to go.

Handwashing the Swiss Gear Backpack:

A better way to go about cleaning the backpack is to handwash it as it keeps its shape and material intact. If you are planning to spend a little part of your Sunday evening getting that Swiss Gear all shiny for next week, just go through the following steps with care.

1. Fill the container you are using to wash the backpack with warm water and suitable detergent. The water should be able to soak the backpack fully so that a thorough cleaning is done.
2. Submerge the backpack and scrub gently. Make sure to not do it violently or with a hard brush.
3. Pay attention to specific areas (zippers, pockets, straps) as they usually get missed during a thorough wash. Using an old toothbrush to scrub those hidden spots can be an effective trick.
4. When you are done with the wash, the only thing left for you is to rinse the backpack and remove excess water.

Machine Washing the Swiss Gear Backpack:

Now if you come under the lazy population who don’t like to handwash their backpack, we also have some tips for you. (The foremost being to make sure the backpack label says machine friendly before you buy it).

Machine washing is not desirable for all kinds of backpacks but can clean better in some… You can follow the following steps and get it done.

1. Set the setting of the washing machine to a gentle cycle and add cold water.
2. Place the backpack in a mesh laundry bag for added protection. You can alternatively also use a pillow cover. The main goal is to keep the backpack from coming into direct contact with the washing machine and hence keep the parts safe.
3. Add a mild detergent and avoid harsh chemicals.
4. Dry the backpack appropriately.

Just like the Swiss Gear backpack, you can also have a detailed guide on how to wash a pottery barn backpack in the washing machine if you own one right here.

Drying and Storing the Backpack:

Congratulations on making it here, your backpack is all washed and cleaned safely. But it is still not fit for you to use. The next step is to dry it so that the water is out and you can put back your things.

1. Remove excess water and dry the backpack properly.
2. Dry the backpack by either hanging it upside down to a pole or putting it outside on clean ground so air can pass through. Usually, it is not advised to dry a backpack using a dryer. You need to check the package and label to confirm this and only use a dryer if it is said so.
3. To keep your backpack safe from the growth of any kind of microbe, you should try drying the backpack in an open space and/or disinfecting it beforehand.

Keep in mind that waterproof backpacks may take some more time to dry so keep them in a well-ventilated space to prevent any unlikely odor to develop.

Additional Tips for Swiss Gear Backpack Maintenance:

Now that you have a clean and dry backpack, you want that to last you much longer than any other backpack. Here are some things that you can do to maintain it.

• Regularly inspect the backpack for any damages or dirt and try to clean it little by little on the go. This way less dirt will accumulate for thorough cleaning.
• Protect the backpack from unnecessary abrasion especially if you are in the handyman business. As much as Swiss Gear is useful in rough conditions, it still must be protected.
• Avoid harsh cleaning agents on your backpack which can harm its material and lining. Do not use a dryer or any product that is not advisable.
• When working in dirty or wet conditions, try to keep the backpack covered with an additional cover or clothing. The same goes for protecting it during rain. This will keep the backpack away from any undesirable stains.
• One trick that can not only help you keep the backpack clean from the outside but also from the inside is to clean or wash the things whenever you empty the backpack before the wash. Throw away the things you will not put inside and the things that you will should be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized so that the dirt doesn’t find Its way back to your backpack.

Conclusion:

So now that we have guided you on how to wash a Swiss Gear backpack, we are sure you will be going around in cool clean bags of yours. With simple techniques and careful measures, we believe you will efficiently wash your backpack.

On an additional note, we have more suggestions for you if you are a hiking enthusiast. Check out how to wash a hiking backpack to get a thorough guide on washing and cleaning your favorite hiking backpacks.

FAQ:

Can you wash a gear bag?

If the material of the gear bag allows and proper measures are taken during the wash, then yes you can surely wash a gear bag whenever it is dirty.

Are gear bags waterproof?

As a general rule of thumb, gear bags are waterproof and do not allow water to enter, but you can be sure about it only after reading the label on your gear bag.

Can you dry clean the inside of a backpack?

It is not recommended to dry clean the insides of backpacks especially if they are of a soft high-quality backpack. Look for a dry-cleaning sign on the label of the backpack and decide accordingly.