Long weekends like Matariki are the perfect opportunity to head into the hills. If you were one of the many Kiwis who spent the long weekend exploring muddy tracks, bagging a snowy summit or escaping into the backcountry, there's a good chance your backpack came home carrying more than just great memories. Mud, dust, sweat and the odd crumb from a squashed muesli bar all have a habit of finding their way into pockets and zippers.
While a dirty pack is often a sign of a great adventure, it's worth giving it a proper clean before your next trip. A little care now helps your backpack last longer, keeps it performing as it should and can even prevent unnecessary wear on fabrics, coatings and zips.
Here's how to clean and care for your backpack the right way.
Does your backpack actually need washing?
Not necessarily.
If your pack has only picked up a bit of trail dust or dried mud, a quick wipe with a damp cloth or a soft brush is usually all it needs. It's also much easier to remove dirt while it's still fresh, so giving it a quick once-over when you get home is always a good idea.
If your backpack has been through a few wet days, is covered in mud or the shoulder straps are showing salt marks from sweat, it's time for a proper clean.
As part of your post-trip routine, it's also worth:
- Emptying every pocket.
- Brushing out any dirt, sand or food scraps.
- Checking that all zips are free from grit.
- Cleaning the included rain cover if you've used it.
Why you should never wash your backpack in the washing machine
It might seem like the easiest option, but washing machines can do more harm than good.
The constant tumbling and abrasion can damage the backpack fabric and its protective PU coating. Detergents may also leave residue behind, which can irritate sensitive skin and, when combined with sweat and UV exposure, may speed up the breakdown of the materials.
There's also the risk of colours running, particularly if the rain cover is washed together with the backpack.
Hand washing is gentler on the fabrics and will help extend the life of your pack.
How to wash your backpack properly
Before you start, remove the rain cover and set it aside.
Fill a bathtub or large bucket with lukewarm water and add a small amount of pH-neutral soap or shower gel. Gently clean the backpack by hand, using a soft brush for stubborn mud or dirt.
If you notice salt stains on the shoulder straps or back panel, squeeze soapy water through the padding several times before rinsing thoroughly.
If you're cleaning a Deuter backpack, leave the frame and support stays in place. They aren't designed to be removed for cleaning, and reinstalling them incorrectly can damage the pack.
Cleaning the rain cover
Rain covers need slightly different treatment.
Rather than soaking or washing them, simply wipe them clean with a damp cloth if required.
Submerging the rain cover in water can affect the durable water repellent (DWR) finish, compromise the seam sealing and even cause colours to bleed.
Before packing it away again, make sure it's completely dry.
Drying and storing your backpack
Drying your backpack properly is just as important as washing it.
Whether it's been cleaned or simply got soaked on the trail, open all the pockets and zips and leave it to air dry somewhere cool, dry and well ventilated.
Avoid direct sunlight, heaters, fireplaces and clothes dryers, as excessive heat can damage the PU coating. Backpack fabrics should also never be ironed.
Once it's fully dry, store your backpack somewhere dry, with the buckles fastened and straps neatly secured. Damp sheds or basements aren't ideal, especially for long-term storage.
Does your backpack need reproofing?
Most backpack fabrics remain water resistant for several years, although prolonged heavy rain will eventually allow some moisture to work its way through seams and zips.
For alpine trips, climbing or ski touring, waterproof dry bags inside your backpack are often the best way to protect clothing and equipment while still allowing easy access to external attachment points for gear like trekking poles, ice axes or snowshoes. For hiking and tramping, the included rain cover remains your best line of defence.
If you've washed your backpack a few times, it's worth checking whether the fabric still repels water. Simply sprinkle a few drops of water onto the outside of the pack. If the water beads on the surface, the DWR treatment is still doing its job. If the water soaks into the fabric, it's time to reproof your backpack.
Keep in mind that waterproofing sprays and wash-in treatments are generally less effective on older packs and can soak into shoulder straps, which may cause skin irritation for some people.
Looking after your trail running vest
Trail running vests benefit from the same regular care.
After each run, empty all the pockets, rinse your hydration flasks or reservoir and allow the vest to dry completely in a shaded, well-ventilated spot.
If it's particularly sweaty or starting to smell, soak it in lukewarm water before gently hand washing it with a sports detergent.
Although most running vests can occasionally go through the washing machine, it should only be done when necessary. Use a laundry bag, select a gentle 30°C hand-wash cycle and avoid spinning where possible.
Never use fabric softener, bleach or a tumble dryer, as these can shorten the lifespan of the materials and fastenings.
A few minutes of care goes a long way
Backpacks and running vests are built to handle tough conditions, but they also benefit from a little maintenance.
Cleaning away mud, sweat and grit, allowing your gear to dry properly and storing it correctly will help it perform better and stay on the trail for many adventures to come.