How to wash a school backpack in a washing machine?

How to wash a school backpack in the washing machine School bags rarely remain clean for a long time - children are often not careful and throw their backpacks on the ground and floor. Daily use only increases the rate of contamination, so parents cannot do without regular washing. To prevent the backpack from deteriorating after cleaning, you need to do everything according to the rules. All that remains is to figure out whether it is possible to wash a school backpack in a washing machine or whether it is better to choose traditional care. All answers and instructions are given below.

How do you know that washing is allowed?

It is recommended to wash your school backpack every 3 months. But you can’t just throw your briefcase into the washing machine and start a random cycle - you need to prepare for the procedure in advance. The first step is to plan the upcoming cleaning by examining the manufacturer's label on the inside of the item.

The label indicates the optimal cleaning conditions for the product, recommendations and restrictions from the manufacturer. All information is encrypted with icons and informs about the acceptable cleaning method:

handwash;
washing in an automatic machine;
Dry clean only;
dry cleaning

Be sure to read the label before washing your backpack!

In the first three cases, you can clean the backpack at home. Dry “cleaning” of the backpack often acts as an intermediate stage of cleansing. If only dry cleaning is acceptable, then you will have to give the item to professionals. In any case, the briefcase needs to be prepared for the procedure. look at the label on the backpack

Getting ready for the process

Preparing for washing begins with emptying the backpack. It is necessary to remove all accessories, turn the briefcase inside out and shake it. Ideally, it is better to vacuum the “insides” to remove debris that has clogged up in the seams.

The next step is to carry out the required “repairs” of the backpack:

fix zippers;
cut off loose threads;
sew up holes and cuts.

Next, we evaluate the condition of the backpack. If it is dusty, it is better to wipe the front part of the product with a damp cloth. If there are grease, grass or ink stains, they must be thoroughly treated with a stain remover. It is recommended to choose formulations without chlorine and act strictly according to the instructions: apply to the affected area, rub in, leave for a while, and then rinse with water. sew up the holes in the backpack

It is advisable to remove all unfastening elements as well. If the straps and pockets become detached from the briefcase itself, then it is better to disconnect everything and wash it separately. With the compartments zipped, we leave the backpack only for machine washing; for hand cleaning, it is advisable to unzip everything.

We use an automatic machine

The easiest way is to wash your school bag in a washing machine. This option will help both refresh your backpack and remove stubborn stains. The risks to the product will be minimal if you set the cycle correctly and choose the right detergent. It is recommended to follow the instructions.

Close all provided zippers.
Place the backpack in a special laundry bag.
Load the machine (if the backpack is small, then you need to add more things to fill the drum).
Add detergent (gels are better, since powders are less easily washed out).
Select the “Delicate Wash” mode.
Make sure that the water heating is set at 30-40 degrees.
Set the spin intensity (800-1200 revolutions are allowed for textile products, 0-600 if there are seals and an orthopedic backrest).
Start the cycle.

Backpacks are washed in an automatic machine only on a delicate program.

As soon as the program ends, the backpack is taken out and dried. To begin with, all pockets are opened, and then both the front and back sides are wiped with a dry cloth. Next, the briefcase is hung out in the fresh air until it is completely dry.

Traditional care

Washing backpacks by hand is more troublesome, but the owner can completely control the process. Preparation for the procedure is standard: empty, clean heavy stains and unzip all pockets. Next we start washing: hand wash school backpack

fill the basin or bathtub with warm water;
dissolve the detergent in water and foam it;
lower the backpack into the soapy solution;
Use a sponge to clean all surfaces of the product, both the front and back sides.

Severe stains are treated with a stain remover before washing.

After washing, we proceed to rinsing - drain the old water, add new water and thoroughly wash out the remaining soap in the fabric. Then lightly wring out the product and begin drying.

Clean without immersion in water

Some backpacks cannot be washed in water, as dry clean only is allowed. This will be indicated by the image of a crossed out basin on the factory label. As a rule, portfolios have a similar limitation:

made of leather (natural and artificial) and vinyl;
treated with special impregnation;
having non-removable elements that are contraindicated to get wet (for example, fur, leather inserts).

If the backpack can only be cleaned dry, then the material should not be allowed to become excessively wet. In this case, it is better to limit yourself to a damp cloth, slightly refreshing the surfaces. If there are strong stains, you are allowed to deviate from the restriction and rub the contaminated areas with a soft brush dipped in a weak soap solution. cleaning leather school backpacks

The best option would be to use special foam cleaners. They act like dry cleaning, removing dirt from the fabric without wetting the latter. They are sold in online stores or in household chemicals departments. The following brands have proven themselves to be excellent: LiquiMoly, Twist, Silver, Salton and Saphir. If the portfolio is very expensive, then it is better not to experiment, but to turn to professionals.

Consider the type of fabric

The washing method you choose depends on the type of fabric and design of the backpack. School bags are made from many different materials, and so that they do not become deformed or lose their original color, it is worth taking into account all the nuances. Especially if the product has orthopedic inserts, stripes and permanent decor.

Leather, vinyl, suede. Any leather backpacks cannot be washed either in a washing machine or by hand. It is important to ensure the most gentle cleansing without excess water, aggressive agents and intense exposure.
Jeans. Denim backpacks can be washed, but subject to certain restrictions. It is necessary to set the minimum temperature to avoid molting. Load separately from other items to prevent staining, and turn off the spin cycle.
Synthetics. The easiest material to care for, as it “loves” washing and has no restrictions on degrees and spin force.

The easiest way to reduce the likelihood of product damage is to study the manufacturer's label. There, the manufacturer not only indicates the type of fabric and percentage of material, but also recommends conditions for safe cleaning.

Frame backpack

Many backpacks, especially for primary school students, are equipped with special orthopedic inserts.These are plastic or metal plates that help the backpack keep its shape and ensure a tight fit to the child’s back. frame backpack

If the plates can be unhooked, then washing proceeds in the standard mode. It is better not to wash a backpack with a sewn-in frame or avoid spinning and twisting.