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Cleaning your backpack

Cleaning your backpack

Extend the lifespan of your backpack with the right care

Your backpack is your trusty companion on so many adventures. But with regular care and cleaning you can make sure that it lasts for as long as possible. So here are some practical tips on washing, drying, waterproofing and storing your backpack.

When is it time to wash your backpack?

While backpacks aren’t worn directly against the skin like clothing, extended use and long hikes can cause dirt buildup. If your backpack becomes heavily soiled or sweaty, washing may be necessary. For light dirt or superficial grime like mud specks or pollen, spot cleaning with a damp cloth should be sufficient.

Note: Dirt is easier to remove when cleaned promptly, ideally right after your hike.

Wash your backpack gently and remove any dirt

After a summer of hiking, your deuter backpack may have accumulated dirt and sweat stains. It’s important to clean it correctly to maintain its durability. Avoid washing your backpack in a washing machine, as the abrasion can damage the material and PU coating, leading to long-term wear. Detergent residue left behind can also cause skin irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin. Additionally, the combination of sweat, detergent, and UV rays can accelerate material degradation.

HOW SHOULD I WASH MY BACKPACK PROPERLY?

The gentlest way to clean your backpack is to submerge it in a bowl or bathtub filled with water, depending on its size, and wash it using a pH-neutral soap or mild shower gel. Use a brush to gently scrub away dirt. For salt stains on the straps, repeatedly squeeze them out with soap and plenty of water. Make sure the backpack is thoroughly dried afterward and stored in a dry, well-ventilated area.

Please note that our backpack frames and support systems are not designed to be disassembled for cleaning. In our experience, attempting to remove and reassemble these components can cause damage that may not be repairable.

After hike storage tips for your backpack

After completing your hike, ensure your backpack remains in optimal condition for future adventures by following these essential care steps:

  1. Empty the backpack completely after hiking
  2. Use a brush and soapy water (pH neutral) to remove any dirt or debris from the exterior
  3. Avoid machine-washing, drying, or ironing the backpack to prevent damage
  4. Ensure zippers are clean and free from dirt to maintain functionality
  5. Store the backpack in a dry, well-ventilated area to prevent mold and mildew growth
  6. Consider hanging it or laying it flat for storage


Incorporating these simple post-hike storage practices can extend the lifespan of your backpack, better relying on its durability and performance throughout your outdoor endeavors.

Dry your backpack thoroughly and store it correctly

Drying your backpack properly is not just important after you’ve washed it, but after a long day out too. Because it will have absorbed sweat and might have even been through rain showers. And so, it’s important to air it properly.

  1. Open all the zippers and place your pack in a dry place or hang it up, upside down.
  2. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight or near a heat source, like an electric heater or open fire.
  3. Store your backpack in a dry place like a cupboard — avoiding damp basements — and with all buckles and straps fastened.
  4. Don’t forget to make sure your rain cover is always completely dry after each use, and before storing it. If not, there is a risk of the colors running, or the fabric becoming damaged.

Does the DWR coating on the backpack need to be re-applied?

For the first few years, backpack material remains adequately watertight. However, prolonged exposure to rain can allow water to seep through zippers and seams. For mountain trekking, climbing, and ski tours, using watertight pack sacks inside the backpack can protect your belongings from getting wet. The advantage: all attachment loops for carrying equipment—like ice picks, skis, poles, or snowshoes—remain easily accessible. Hiking and trekking backpacks benefit from using a rain cover. For older models, re-applying waterproofing treatments only provides short-term protection. These treatments (spray and bath impregnations) can penetrate the base layer and potentially cause skin irritation.

Trail Running Vest: Care instructions

To ensure you enjoy your deuter trail running vest for as long as possible, follow these care instructions:

  • Rinse the flasks or your hydration bladder thoroughly before use. Then you can start your first run directly.
  • After each tour, completely empty the vest, remove dirt, and rinse the hydration vessels. Hang or lay it out to dry in a shady, dry place. If your run was particularly sweaty, you can wash the vest by hand with lukewarm water and some functional detergent beforehand.
  • Is your vest starting to smell or have stubborn stains? Hand washing with functional detergent also helps. Let the trail running vest soak in lukewarm water and then rinse it gently.
  • Only rarely should you put your trail running vest in the washing machine, as the material and fasteners can be damaged over time. Use the hand wash program without spinning at low temperature (30 degrees) and always use a laundry bag. Fabric softener, bleach, and the dryer are off-limits!
  • Store your vest in a dry place away from sunlight and heat sources.

You can also find the most important care instructions for the trail running vest on the care label sewn into the vest.

TIPS FOR WASHING YOUR BACKPACK

If your backpack has gotten a lot of sweat or dirt, for example after a long hike, washing is unavoidable. If you only notice light, superficial dirt such as small splashes of dirt or pollen, it is sufficient to clean your backpack or rain cover directly after your hike. All you need is a damp cloth. If there is more dirt, you may have to wash the rucksack properly.

If you want to remove dirt from your backpack, please note the following: Backpacks should not be washed in washing machine. This puts abrasive stress on the material and the PU coating and will cause damage in the long run. Also, detergent residues often remain. For sensitive skin types, this can lead to skin irritation on the shoulder straps, for example. A chemical reaction of sweat, detergent residues and UV radiation also promotes faster degradation of the materials. Do not wash your rain cover in the washing machine either.

Especially in the first few years, our high-quality backpack material and the DWR impregnation still keep it sufficiently waterproof. However, sometimes - especially after a thorough wash - a re-impregnation may be necessary. You can easily test this by dripping a small amount of water on the upper material of your backpack: if the water does not bead up but penetrates, you should impregnate the backpack. In heavy rain, we also recommend a rain cover to prevent water from penetrating through the zips and seams.

Check out our full range of backpacks.

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