How to Wash a North Face Backpack

If you’re like most people, you probably have a North Face backpack that you use for hiking, backpacking, or just daily use. These backpacks are incredibly popular because they are sturdy and reliable. However, if you don’t clean them properly, they can start to look and smell dirty. In this blog post, we’ll show you how to wash your North Face backpack safely and effectively.

So follow these simple steps, and your backpack will be good as new in no time!

a tan and green north face backpack sitting in the grass

Cleaning Tips

Taking steps to keep your pack clean between washes means having to wash your North Face backpack less overall.  Don’t wait until your backpack is dirty to clean it. Clean it regularly, even if it doesn’t appear to be dirty. This will help to prevent dirt and grime from building up, which can be difficult to remove once it’s set in.

Steps for cleaning your North Face backpack on a regular basis

Vacuum the interior and inside pockets

Empty your backpack out on a regular basis and give it a good shake. If you’re a hiker, do this after each use. This will help to remove any loose dirt and debris that made it’s way inside your pack. 

Use a tooth brush to clean the zippers and crevices of buckles, clasps, and under flaps of the packs material. 

Use a clean, damp sponge to wipe the interior of your pack

  Spot clean your backpack as needed using a mild detergent and a damp cloth. Be sure to rinse the area well afterwards to remove any soap residue.

  Store your backpack in a cool, dry place when not in use. This will help to prevent mold and mildew from forming

How to Wash Your North Face Backpack

The North Face doesn’t recommend submerging their packs, only spot cleaning and air drying. But as we all know, sometimes spot cleaning doesn’t quite cut it. So with that in mind, continue at your own risk.

Follow the steps above to clean your pack. I prefer waiting for the toothbrush step until after the bag has been submerged. I just feel like it’s a better, easier clean. 

Prepare a tub or bin by filling with lukewarm water and mild detergent, like NIKWAX Tech Wash. Nikwax is a great option for washing North Face backpacks because it’s made for water repellent items. It’ll help protect any DWR (durable water repellent) coating that is on your backpack.

Submerge your pack and swish gently a few times

Take your clean sponge or toothbrush and gently try to scrub away any stains that may remain

Hang your fully opened bag to dry in a well ventilated area, away from heat. Make sure to keep any pockets and zippers opened to allow the pack to fully dry. 

Laundry Dryers: DRY AT YOUR OWN RISK. Heat can damage many materials used in backpacks. From melting mesh to damaging water repellent coatings. It’s best not to dry your pack in a clothes dryer. If you’re going to risk it, try the no heat setting or low heat at most. 

Cleaning your North Face backpack is important to prolonging the life of the bag and keeping it looking new. Luckily, it’s not difficult to clean – a little soap and water does the trick! By following these simple steps, you can keep your North Face backpack looking new for years to come.

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