Before cleaning your child’s mud-stained bag, remember that all school bags aren’t made of the same material. It is essential to check the fabric care label to determine the proper way to clean the bag.
You can choose between machine-washing or hand-washing the bag. Here are a few steps to follow.
Machine-Wash the Bag
Step 1: Empty the Bag’s Pockets
Most backpack care labels suggest machine-washing, especially those made of nylon or canvas. Before putting your kids’ bag in the washer, ensure you have checked all the pockets and emptied them out completely.
Step 2: Pre-Treat Tough Stains
If there are any difficult stains, apply a liquid detergent on the stained area and gently brush with an old brush. Wait 15 minutes before you put the bag in your washer.
Step 3: Turn the Bag Inside-Out
Turn the bag inside-out, put it in a laundry mesh bag or an old, clean pillow cover, and then put in in the washing machine. This will prevent its zippers and straps from getting caught inside the machine.
Step 4: Add a Mild Detergent
Add 3 tbsp. of a mild detergent to your machine.
Step 5: Run the Cycle
Wash the bag on a gentle cycle in cold water.
Step 6: Air-Dry
Finally, let the bag air-dry by hanging it upside down, with the zippers open.
Hand-Wash the Bag
Step 1: Empty the Bag
Before going for a good old-fashioned hand-washing, empty the bag completely.
Step 2: Pre-Treat Tough Stains
If there are any dried or difficult stains, apply a liquid detergent on the stained area and gently brush with an brush. Let it sit for 15 minutes.
Step 3: Soak
Fill a bucket with enough lukewarm water to immerse the entire bag. Add 2 tbsp. of liquid detergent and soak the bag in this soapy solution.
Step 4: Scrub
With a brush, gently scrub the interior and exterior of the bag.
Step 5: Rinse
Finally, rinse the bag under cool water and hang to dry upside-down, with the zippers open.
These effective methods will help you clean your child’s school bag in no time!