How to Safely Wash Your Herschel Backpack: A Step-by-Step Guide

If your Herschel backpack looks worse for wear and you're considering cleaning it yourself, worry not! There's a safe method to do so. Here are the steps on how to wash a Herschel backpack, and it's not the typical "washing" you might be thinking of.

Herschel has achieved worldwide fame as one of the most iconic brands today. This Canadian brand, founded by brothers Jamie and Lyndon Cormack, is celebrated for its exceptional backpacks, bags, and accessories.

Noteworthy for their low-maintenance design, Herschel backpacks are surprisingly easy to care for. While washable, they don't require as much washing as one might initially assume. Just spot cleaning. Here are four steps to wash your Herschel backpack safely.

A Herschel backpack | Source: Shutterstock

How to Safely Wash Your Herschel Backpack

1. Remove items, dirt, and crumbs.

To ensure effective cleaning, start by emptying all pockets, including the laptop pad. Even a tiny item left inside can complicate the process, as it may disintegrate when wet. After unpacking, use a handheld vacuum or shake the bag to remove debris.

Keep your belongings together to avoid forgetting items, and inspect the zipper for any loose material that might cause it to get stuck. Finally, once your backpack is empty and cleaned, zip it up to complete the cleaning process seamlessly.

Empty the backpack to avoid complications, and use a handheld vacuum or shake the bag to remove debris. | Source: Shutterstock

2. Prepare mild soap and soft tools.

When cleaning your Herschel backpack, it's best to use mild soap and soft tools that won't damage the bag. The cleaning method will depend on the type of material your backpack is made of. Herschel backpacks are made of either canvas or nylon.

For natural fibers such as cotton or canvas, you can machine-wash on a gentle cycle with mild soap. For synthetic materials like polyester or nylon, it's best to hand-wash using mild soap and water. Additionally, ensure soft tools are on hand.

You can use a toothbrush, makeup brush, or paintbrush to remove stains or dried-on substances from a backpack. You can use soft sponges, but avoid harsh ones or those with wires—they could damage the backpack's coating.

Clean your Herschel backpack with mild soap, using soft tools such as brushes and sponges. | Source: Pexels

3. Clean the backpack in a circular motion.

Dampen the targeted spot and apply a mild soap using your hands, a toothbrush, or a small sponge. Ensure the water is warm, avoiding excessive heat to prevent damage to the bag's material. Gently brush the affected area in circular motions.

Next, remove any large debris by brushing with your hand. To clean the zippers of your Herschel backpack, brush it with a toothbrush with shampoo. Don't worry if the material looks lighter temporarily due to soap residue; it will improve after rinsing.

Repeat the process as needed, applying mild soap until the stains are entirely removed. This sequence ensures a thorough and gentle cleaning process for your Herschel bag.

Brush your Herschel backpack in circles and use a toothbrush for the zippers. | Source: Pexels

4. Airdry the backpack.

You can also hang the backpack with a hanger to dry effectively. For maximum airflow, hang the bag with its zippers open.

Keeping your Herschel backpack in top shape is simple, with a focus on gentle care. Spot clean using mild soap and soft tools, then let it air dry for the best results. Enjoy a clean and well-maintained Herschel companion on all your adventures!

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