Table of Contents

How Do You Wash a North Face Backpack? A Hiker’s Complete Cleaning & Maintenance Guide

As any seasoned hiker knows, your backpack is more than just a bag—it’s a trusted piece of gear that goes with you on every trail, summit, and backcountry adventure. Whether you’re hauling supplies on a weekend backpacking trip or tackling a thru-hike, your pack takes a beating. That’s why learning how to clean a North Face hiking backpack is crucial for maintaining performance and durability.

In this detailed guide, we’ll break down everything hikers need to know about washing and caring for their North Face backpack—from removing trail dust and mud to safely drying your pack without damaging it.

Why It’s Important to Clean Your Hiking Backpack

Whether it’s sweat from long treks, dust from dry trails, or mud from rainy hikes, your North Face backpack collects it all. Over time, that dirt can degrade materials, cause odors, and reduce the waterproofing or breathability of the fabric.

Benefits of cleaning your hiking backpack regularly:

Extends the life of your backpack
Removes harmful bacteria, mould, and mildew
Keeps gear fresh and trail-ready
Protects fabric and zippers from build-up

When you’re hundreds of miles from the nearest gear shop, keeping your backpack in top shape isn’t optional—it’s essential.

Can You Machine Wash a North Face Hiking Backpack?

Short answer: No. While tossing your muddy pack into the washing machine may be tempting after a long hike, The North Face specifically advises against machine washing.

Why? Machine agitation and spin cycles can damage stitching, zippers, and the protective coatings that make your hiking backpack weather-resistant.

Best practice for hikers: Always hand wash your North Face backpack using gentle methods. It may take more time, but your gear will thank you.

What You Need to Wash Your North Face Hiking Backpack

Before diving into the cleaning process, gather the following trail-friendly gear care supplies:

Mild, non-detergent soap (like Nikwax Tech Wash or gentle dish soap)
Soft-bristled brush or old toothbrush
Sponge or microfiber cloth
Lukewarm water
Large sink, basin, or bathtub
Towels for drying
Optional: Odour-neutralizing powder or fabric-safe stain remover

Avoid harsh chemicals, bleach, or laundry detergents with additives—they can harm your pack’s materials.

Sale

Nikwax TECH WASH Wash-In Cleaner - 100ml, Technical Cleaner and Wash-In Waterproofer for Waterproof Clothing

The No.1 easy to use, safe, high performance cleaner for wet weather clothing and equipment.
Application in a washing machine is quick, easy, and ensures that the whole garment is thoroughly cleaned.
Nikwax Tech Wash is the market leader; it has been specifically designed and optimised for breathable waterproof fabrics.
Prolongs the life of gear and optimises outdoor performance
Maintains breathability

Last update on 2025-06-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Step-by-Step: How to Clean a North Face Hiking Backpack

1. Unload & Empty Every Compartment

Dump out your backpack completely—check all pockets, hip belt pouches, and hidden compartments. Remove any leftover trail mix, energy bar wrappers, or loose gear.

Pro Tip: Shake the bag upside down to remove any grit or gravel stuck in the seams.

2. Detach Removable Components

If your hiking backpack has a removable frame, hip belt, sternum strap, or hydration bladder sleeve, take them off before washing.

This makes it easier to get into every nook and cranny and prevents damage during cleaning.

3. Brush Off Dirt and Debris

Use a soft brush to sweep away dried mud, sand, or plant debris. Focus on high-contact areas like shoulder straps, back panel, and bottom where the pack often rests on the ground.

This dry-brushing step ensures you won’t scrub abrasive grit into the fabric while washing.

4. Spot Treat Stains and High-Grime Areas

Use a damp cloth or sponge with a small amount of mild soap to spot-clean areas with visible dirt or sweat stains. Gently scrub shoulder straps and the back mesh—these absorb the most sweat on trail hikes.

For oil-based stains or tree sap, use a fabric-safe stain remover or a paste of baking soda and water.

Nikwax SPORTS REFRESH - Sports Wash Detergent & Powerful Odour Eliminator. Deodorising Cleaner for Activewear, Fitness, Gym Clothes, and Sports Kits - Prevents Odour Build-up, Fresh Scent (1 Litre)

DEODORISING CLEANER: Nikwax Sports Refresh is a high-powered cleaner, that removes odour buildup, rather than masking it. A powerful sports laundry detergent, perfect for an active lifestyle. The powerful formulation cleans away sweat, bacteria and dirt, ensuring your activewear is deodorised, with no nasty odours hiding under a fragrance.
EXTENDS THE LIFE OF YOUR SPORTS AND ACTIVE CLOTHING: Sports Refresh enhances the performance of your active sportswear by accelerating the wicking process (spread moisture), reducing the opportunity for bacteria to breed and odours to form leaving you smelling fresh!
EASY TO USE: Our anti odour washing detergent can be used in your washing machine or for handwashing. Its special formula not only cleans, but accelerates the drying time of activewear!
RECOMMENDED USE: With Nikwax Sports Refresh, you can ensure all your active wear is clean and smelling fresh. Specially formulated for gym clothes, cotton clothing, sports and active wear.
ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY: Sports Refresh is non-biological and biocide-free making it kinder to your skin, the environment and your garments. All Nikwax products are PFAS-free, water based and non-persistent in the environment. Nikwax bottles are made from recycled material and are recyclable, ensuring we do our part for the planet!

Last update on 2025-06-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

5. Soak and Hand Wash in Lukewarm Water

Fill a tub or large basin with lukewarm water and mix in a small amount of mild soap.

Submerge the pack partially (don’t drown it if it has foam padding). Use your sponge or brush to:

Wipe the entire exterior
Scrub straps, hip belt, and base
Gently wash the interior lining

Avoid soaking leather parts or waterproof zippers.

6. Rinse Completely

Drain the dirty water and refill with clean, lukewarm water. Rinse your backpack thoroughly to remove soap and residue. Soap left behind can attract dirt on your next hike.

You may need to rinse 2–3 times depending on how much soap you used.

7. Dry Your Backpack the Right Way

After rinsing, gently squeeze out excess water without wringing or twisting the pack.

Lay it flat on a towel and press to remove moisture
Hang upside down to air dry in a shaded, ventilated space
Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources like a dryer or radiator

Drying tip for hikers: Drying can take up to 48 hours, so plan your backpack cleaning between trips!

How Often Should You Clean a Hiking Backpack?

The frequency of cleaning depends on your hiking intensity and trail conditions:

Day hikers: Clean every 1–2 months or as needed
Backpackers/Thru-hikers: Clean after every major trip
Muddy or sweaty hikes: Spot clean immediately after use

If you notice strong odours or visible grime, it’s time to give your pack a proper wash.

Trail-Tested Maintenance Tips for North Face Backpacks

To reduce how often you need to wash your backpack, follow these on- and off-trail gear maintenance tips:

Use a rain cover to keep your bag clean on wet or muddy trails
Pack food in sealed bags to prevent spills inside your pack
Clean hydration reservoir leaks as soon as they occur
Avoid placing your pack directly on the ground—use a rock or tarp when taking breaks
Wipe down straps and hip belts with a damp cloth after every hike

Common Mistakes Hikers Should Avoid

Don’t cut corners on backpack care. Here’s what not to do:

Machine washing – can destroy waterproof coatings and frame stability
Using bleach or fabric softener – these damage synthetic materials
Drying in direct sunlight – UV rays degrade colour and fabric strength
Skipping drying time – packing a damp backpack can lead to mildew

Quick FAQ for Trail-Ready Backpack Cleaning

Can I use vinegar or baking soda to clean my backpack?

Yes. A 1:1 solution of white vinegar and water can neutralize odours, and a baking soda paste helps lift tough stains. Always rinse thoroughly.

What if my backpack smells bad even after cleaning?

Try placing a dryer sheet or activated charcoal pouch inside the pack overnight. Odour-absorbing sprays (like Gear Aid Revivex) also help.

How do I clean mould or mildew from my hiking backpack?

Use a mix of vinegar and water (1:4 ratio), scrub with a brush, and dry completely in fresh air. Mold spores thrive in damp, dark spaces, so ventilation is key.

Final Thoughts: Keep Your Hiking Pack Adventure-Ready

Your North Face backpack is built for rugged adventures—but even the toughest gear needs a little TLC. By learning how to clean your hiking backpack properly, you’re investing in years of reliable performance on the trail.

From gentle hand washing to air drying, caring for your gear doesn’t just keep it clean—it keeps you prepared for whatever the wild throws your way. So before your next summit push or weekend trek, take the time to wash your North Face hiking backpack and hit the trail feeling fresh and confident.

Conclusion: Clean, Safe, and Ready for Adventure

So, how do you wash a North Face backpack the right way? The answer is simple: hand wash it gently using mild detergent, rinse thoroughly, and air dry completely. With a little care and attention, your North Face backpack will stay clean, functional, and looking good for many adventures to come.

Remember, your backpack is an investment—whether it’s for school, travel, or hiking. Cleaning it properly not only improves its appearance but also ensures it lasts for years.

By following this guide, you now know exactly how to clean a North Face backpack safely, without the risk of damage. So the next time you spill coffee or come back from a muddy hike, you’ll be prepared to refresh your backpack like a pro.