Can You Wash A North Face Backpack? (2023)

Whether you are going on a calming hike for the day or traveling around the world, North Face backpacks are known for their long lasting durability and spacious design.

But after some time of being dragged around the world and taken through the trenches of life, they need some looking after.

So, can you give your North Face backpack a much needed clean? Well, yes you can. However, there are a few things to consider before just popping it in the washing machine and hoping for the best.

Below is everything you need to know about washing your North Face backpack and how to keep it in the best condition for your next adventure!

Can North Face Backpacks Go In The Washing Machine?

When it comes to keeping anything clean, our first thought is to throw it in the washing machine and pray it doesn't shrink or fall apart.

North Face backpacks are mainly made from a durable material called nylon. Nylon is durable and strong enough to last a cycle through the machine every once in a while.

Before you go throwing in every backpack you own with nylon listed on the fabrics, make sure to read the care instructions. Not every backpack, even North Face ones, are made the same.

How To Clean Your North Face Backpack

While washing your North Face bag in the washing machine may be the easiest and fastest option to give your backpack a new lease of life, there is another option. You can also wash it by hand.

For many of us, they may seem time consuming and less than exciting but it is the safest option and you can make it fun!

Although, if you are short on time and your backpack is beginning to attract flies then throwing it in the washing machine will give you a glorious gleam.

Washing Machine

Washing your North Face Backpack is really simple with just a few steps to ensure you bag is safe and clean:

1. Place your backpack in a mesh laundry bag or a pillowcase to prevent it from catching on anything in the machine.
2. Select a gentle and cool wash cycle. Use a mild detergent.
3. Allow the cycle to finish fully and remove your backpack.
4. Allow your backpack to air dry. Do not place it on a heater.

Hand Washing

Hand washing your North Face backpack is one of the best ways to give it a good clean without worrying about it snagging and breaking.

1. Fill your sink with cool water and a small amount of mild detergent.
2. Get a small towel and dampen it in the cool water.
3. Gently scrub the dirty areas of your backpack with the damp towel.
4. Once all areas have been attended to, rinse the backpack with cool water until all the soap is gone.
5. Allow your bag to air dry. Do not place it on a heater.

When it comes to the upkeep of your North Face backpack you may prefer to wash it by hand every few weeks to ensure it remains fresh and give it a toss in the washing machine when it is in need of a deep clean.

Tips For Cleaning Your North Face Backpack

There are several simple guidelines you can adhere to in addition to the occasional deep clean to maintain your backpack smelling and looking good. Here are some of our top recommendations:

• Sprinkle some baking soda in your backpack, then leave it there overnight to help prevent odors. In the morning, simply vacuum up the baking soda to restore your backpack's fresh scent.
• Empty your backpack after each usage, then clean it with a moist towel. Any dirt or debris that has gathered over the day will be helped to eliminate by doing this. A quick wipe-down will do; you don't need to fiddle with soap or detergent.
• You may freshen up your backpack if it's starting to appear a touch drab with some fabric cleaning. Prior to cleaning the entire bag, make sure to complete a spot test in a discrete region.

Drying Your North Face Backpack

Now that your North Face backpack is smelling fresh and looking brand new, it is time to get it dry and ready for use.

While your first thought may be to throw it in the dryer to save time, this is not a good idea. The materials of your North Face backpack are simply not made for the dryer.

The high heat can cause damage to the materials, fade the colors, and essentially ruin your rather expensive and well loved travel buddy.

Always allow your backpack to air dry to ensure the materials are protected and the colors remain fun and vibrant.

Using the tumble dryer on your North Face backpack may also cause it to shrink. Meaning you will lose all of that space that is very much needed when traveling, hiking, or simply going to work.

Frequently Asked Questions

So, can you wash a North Face backpack? You have questions, we have more answers. In comparing

Do White North Face Backpacks Get Dirty Easily?

Much like any other item, a white North Face backpack will get dirty. The dirt will also be shown a lot easier and it can be harder to maintain.

What Makes North Face Backpacks High Quality?

The North Face's backpacks are generally good at protecting your belongings. TNF's bags typically come with fleece-lined phone and tablet sleeves, padded laptop sleeves, and water-resistant finishes.

Final Thoughts

Throughout the years, North Face has slowly become the brand of the outdoors.

Just like people gravitate for Chaco or Teva for outdoor sandals, they gravitate toward The North Face for all other outdoor gear needs.

For any activity or situation, you can count on a North Face product to keep you warm, dry, and in control. And their backpacks aren’t any different.

Their spacious, durable, and high quality backpacks are excellent for traveling, hiking, and even taking to the office to keep all of your valuables in one place.

Keeping them clean doesn’t have to be difficult. Simply put them in the machine on a cool, gentle cycle or give them a wash by hand to give them a new lease of life!

Just remember to never put it in the tumble dryer!