How to Wash a Pottery Barn Backpack?

Pottery Barn backpacks are known for their durability, stylish designs, and quality construction using materials like sturdy canvas, water-resistant nylon, and even leather accents. However, no backpack is impervious to the wear and tear of daily kid use. Regular cleaning is a must to maintain the backpack’s appearance and extend its lifespan.

Removing built-up grime, stains, and odors from a backpack isn’t just about looks – it’s also a matter of hygiene. Think about all the places that backpack goes – the classroom floor, outdoor play areas, cars, and more. Periodic deep cleaning is essential to remove germs, bacteria, and allergens. But can you wash a Pottery Barn backpack? And more importantly, how to do it? Let’s see.

Checking the PB Backpack Care Label

Before attempting to clean a Pottery Barn backpack, the first crucial step is to locate and carefully read the care label instructions. This label provides specific guidance on the recommended cleaning methods for that particular backpack based on its materials.

Here are some common materials and cleaning methods for Pottery Barn backpacks:

Failure to follow the care instructions could potentially lead to issues like faded colors, shrunken fabric, or material damage. When in doubt, hand washing is usually the safest route for delicate backpacks.

Pre-Treating and Preparation

Before actually cleaning the backpack, there are a few preparation steps:

1. Empty contents: Remove all items, crumbs, and debris from the backpack interior and outer pockets thoroughly.
2. Pre-treat stains: For set-in stains, apply a stain remover like OxiClean or Shout directly onto the affected areas and let it soak briefly before washing. Focus on common stains like food spills on the bottom panel, ink marks, or grass stains.
3. Remove detachable parts: Detach any removable components like adjustable straps, keychains, or hip pads. These pieces may need to be hand-washed separately.

Should You Hand-Wash or Machine-Wash PB Backpacks?

The best cleaning method for a Pottery Barn backpack depends on both the backpack’s material and level of soiling. Always defer to the care label’s instructions first.

Benefits of Hand Washing

• Gentler on fabrics and dyes
• Better for delicates like leather
• More control over cleaning process

Benefits of Machine Washing

• Faster and more convenient
• More thorough cleaning
• Suitable for durable materials like canvas, nylon

How to Hand-Wash PB Backpacks?

For hand washing, you’ll need a few basic supplies:

• A mild detergent or dish soap
• A clean sink, bathtub, or large basin
• A soft-bristled cleaning brush (optional)

Follow these simple steps:

1. Fill the sink with lukewarm water and add a small amount (1-2 tsp) of mild detergent. Swish to create gentle suds.
2. Submerge the backpack fully and use your hands to agitate the soapy water through the fabric. Let it soak for 15-30 minutes.
3. Use a soft brush to gently scrub any heavily soiled areas like the bottom panel or shoulder straps.
4. Rinse thoroughly with cool, clean water until no more soap residue remains.
5. Squeeze out excess water (don’t wring or twist) and blot the backpack with a clean towel.

For leather components, use a damp cloth with a drop of leather cleaner instead of submerging in water.

How to Machine Wash Pottery Barn Backpacks?

If the care label permits machine washing, this can be a fast and effective way to clean heavily soiled backpacks. Follow these tips:

1. Wash on a gentle cycle using cold water. Avoid hot water which can cause shrinkage or fading.
2. Use a mild detergent like Seventh Generation or Woolite. Powdered detergent works better than liquid for cleaning backpacks.
3. Place in a mesh laundry bag (or pillowcase) to protect the backpack from snagging or abrasion. This is especially important for top-loading washers with an agitator.
4. Run an extra rinse cycle if excess detergent residue remains after washing, as this can attract future dirt and odors.

Proper Backpack Drying Techniques

No matter which washing method you chose, never put a Pottery Barn backpack in the dryer unless the care instructions specifically permit it. The heat can potentially cause shrinkage, fading, and material damage.

Instead, air drying is the best practice for both hand washed and machine washed backpacks:

1. Reshape the backpack while it’s still damp. Smooth out any wrinkles and re-form the structure.
2. Stuff the main compartment lightly with a towel or paper to help it retain its shape as it dries.
3. Hang or lay flat to dry in a well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight, which can cause colors to fade over time.
4. Allow to dry thoroughly (12-24 hours) before using or re-packing the backpack.

In a pinch, you can use a clothes dryer’s air fluff or low heat cycle, being very careful not to over-dry.

Special Material Considerations

Different backpack materials require some variation in cleaning:

Canvas or Nylon Backpacks Most of Pottery Barn’s backpacks made from durable canvas or nylon can be hand or machine washed safely using the methods above. Use a soft brush to gently scrub away stuck-on dirt and grime.

Leather Backpacks Never submerge leather backpacks in water. Instead, spot clean leather components with a lightly damp cloth and a few drops of leather cleaner. Let it air dry thoroughly.

Printed Designs Take extra care with backpacks featuring printed patterns or designs. The friction of washing can potentially cause cracking or fading of the print over time. Handwashing gently is safest.

Deodorizing Smelly Backpacks For lingering odors, sprinkle some baking soda inside the backpack before washing. You can also place dryer sheets or fragrance beads in the interior once it’s clean to help keep odors at bay.

Helpful Tips and Tricks

Make backpack cleaning easier with these simple tips:

• Pretreat stains by dissolving some OxiClean in warm water and letting the backpack soak for 6+ hours before washing.
• Use Shout or another stain spray right before washing to help lift set-in stains.
• Add towels to the wash to help balance the load if washing a single backpack.
• Wash backpacks every 1-3 months during the school year when they see the most use.
• Clean the zippers by running a clean toothbrush dipped in soapy water along the zipper teeth to remove any gunk or debris.
• Apply a water-repellent spray after cleaning to help re-waterproof the exterior of canvas or nylon backpacks.

End Notes

Giving your child’s Pottery Barn backpack some regular TLC through washing is important for maintaining its quality construction and stylish appearance. With just a little time and effort every few months, you can keep their trusty backpack looking fresh and new for years to come.

Implementing a regular washing routine, whether by hand or machine, is a simple way to prolong the lifespan of these high-quality backpacks. With some basic cleaning supplies and care, your Pottery Barn backpack investment can last all through elementary school and beyond!