How To Wash A Duffel Bag? Step-by-Step Instructions

Key Takeaways

• The duffle bag is one of the most favorite bags recently because of its spacious design. Either natural or synthetic fabric can be used to make this fashion item.
• After long-time use, your bag may get dirty and smelly. How can you wash a duffel bag and remove uncomfortable odors in the right way? Let's dive in to explore our tips!

What Is A Duffle Bag?

Duffel bags are cylindrical-shaped bags with a lot of space inside to carry a bunch of things. Tired of carrying bulky suitcases for short trips? This item is a perfect companion making your next vacation more enjoyable.

The name "duffel bags" comes from Duffel in Belgium. This was the first place to produce this bag, which was intended to serve soldiers and sailors in the U.S. The Belgian neighborhood, in English, calls this bag a Barrel. This term refers to a bag with a horizontal cylindrical design that musicians often use to contain the drums.

Before learning how to wash a duffel bag properly, we need to know what it is made of. The two most popular materials used to produce a duffel bag are canvas, polyester, and nylon. They are durable, sturdy, easy to clean, and suitable for outdoor activities and travel. A leather duffel bag is an excellent premium choice.

Duffle bags have become more popular today.

How To Wash A Duffle Bag

Let's imagine that your duffle bag goes with you everywhere, from your home to the airport, in the hotel rooms, and even on the road. It probably gets smelly with dust, sweat, and bacteria. 

So, how to clean a duffle bag and remove those odors? Can you wash a duffel bag in the washing machine or otherwise? Here is a detailed guide for you:

What Types Of Duffle Bags Can You Wash?

The good news for you is that duffle bags are easier to clean than other types of luggage. And, of course, no matter what your bag material is, you can give it a "spa day." However, it requires different washing methods:

• Canvas, polyester, nylon, cloth, and similar fabrics: Duffel bags made of these materials can be washed in the washing machine or by hand. Getting wet with soap and water is safe without fear of damaging the fabric.
• Leather and suede: The cleaning process of these bags is more complicated. Leather is sensitive to water and chemicals. Therefore, leather bags cannot be washed by soaking them in water or using a machine like other materials. This can cause stains or even damage the bag's surface.

Remember always to check the care label on your bag. It provides detailed instructions for the manufacturer's care and maintenance of consumers. These tips help if you need help knowing where to start or how to wash a duffel bag.

Remember to check the bag materials to opt for a suitable washing approach.

We've quickly reviewed what your bag is made of; now, it's time to give it a fresh look. Are you ready yet? Let's go!

Preparing Your Duffel Bag For Washing

Before cleaning your bag, you need to follow these steps:

• Take everything out of the bag: First, make sure your duffel bag is empty. Then, double-check the side pockets and compartments for any forgotten items.
• Shake out your bag: Then, shake your bag and turn it upside down to remove dirt and sand.
• Check and pretreat stains: This action will help remove stubborn stains proactively. Apply a gentle detergent and gently rub your bag with a soft brush or damp cloth.
• Detach all accessories and parts: If your bag has removable straps and decorative items like tags or keychains, remove them before washing. This will save your bag and these components from damage in the laundry.
• Open all zippers: To clean your bag deep, unzip all the pockets, main and auxiliary. This prevents the bag fabrics from tangling, scratching, or tearing during washing.
• Reverse the bag: Finally, turn the bag inside out to thoroughly cleanse it. This enables the soap to reach the inner fabrics, washing the bag more comprehensively and efficiently.

You shouldn't overlook the preparations before the washing process. These small steps have a significant impact on your later bag washing. It will help preserve your bag's quality and prolonged usability. Thus, why don't we make it our new bag-washing routine today?

Remember to prepare your duffel bag before washing.

How To Wash A Duffel Bag: 2 Common Cleaning Methods

When completing all fundamental tasks, it's time to clean your bag. Here are how to wash a duffel bag with two different methods:

By Washing Machine

As mentioned, you only use a washing machine for a polyester, nylon, or canvas duffel bag. Again, double-check the manufacturer's instructions to make sure your bag is machine-friendly. Then, follow these steps:

• Use a mesh laundry bag (optional): Learning how to wash a duffel bag in the washing machine starts by placing the duffel bag in a laundry bag to protect the bag from sharp objects in the washing machine.
• Fill the bag with mild detergent: Clean the bag with mild soap or gentle laundry detergent. This will help maintain its structural integrity and color vibrancy. Avoid adding fabric softener or bleach, as these may harm specific fabrics.
• Choose a gentle washing cycle: Use a delicate cycle with a duffel bag to minimize rough handling and damage. Also, tick the cold water option.
• It's washtime! Start the washing machine and let it run. When it concludes, check the bag carefully. If there's any soap left, rinse it again.

Make sure your duffel bag is machine-friendly before washing it.

By Hand

Manual wash is the ideal approach, especially for those with leather and suede surfaces. Here is how to wash a duffel bag manually:

• Prepare the soapy solution: Mix 4 cups of warm water with a teaspoon of non-bleach detergent. You can also use the recipe of 50% water with 50% alcohol. Remember to avoid harsh chemicals, which will damage and fade the bag's color.
• Test on a small area first: Before washing the entire bag, test the washing solution on a small, hidden area of ​​the bag. This action ensures the mixture does not discolor or damage the fabric.
• Immerse your bag in the soapy solution: When everything is fine, place the bag in soapy water and let it soak for a few minutes to loosen dirt and sweat.
• Gently scrub stains: Rub the bag's surface with a soft brush or a cloth. Wash tough strains thoroughly and soak for a few more minutes until the spot is removed.
• Rinse the bag: After cleaning, wash the bag with fresh water to remove all soap. Repeat this process until the soap suds are clear.

Washing duffel bags by hand is the best approach.

Deodorize A Duffle Bag

After long days of travel and gym, your duffle bag may have bad smells. Here are a couple of tips for you to deal with these odors:

• White vinegar solution: Dilute one cup of white vinegar with one cup of water. After that, use a soft cloth soaked in the solution to clean the bag. Vinegar can deodorize and kill bacteria, removing unpleasant smells from your bag.
• Use baking soda: This ingredient can eliminate the smell from your bag because it neutralizes odors. To do this, add a cup of baking soda to the washing solution or washing machine and then watch it do its duty.
• Use dryer sheets or desiccant bags: This quick and effective solution absorbs moisture and reduces odors. However, this method is only suitable for addressing minor odors, not strong ones.
• Use tea bags: This is one of the best deodorizers for all cases. Leave 2-3 tea bags with aromatic herbs inside your duffle bag for a few days.

Drying Your Washed Duffle Bag

Can you put a duffel bag in the dryer? The answer is no because it may ruin the bag's shape and original form. After washing, don't wring or twist your bag. Instead, use a dry towel to blot out the excess water, then let it air dry. This is a better way to dry your bag because it helps keep its shape and prevents heat damage. 

Also, avoid exposing your duffle bag to direct and intense sunlight, as this may fade the color and age the fabrics. What's more, open all the compartments on your bag, including pockets and side pouches. Stuffing crumpled papers inside smaller pockets can help keep their shape.

Be patient and let your bag air dry completely. It may take 24 to 48 hours. Avoid using a hairdryer or heater, as these can damage the fabric and make your bag less durable and attractive.

Let your bag air dry.

Tips to Maintain Your Duffel Bag Post-Washing

We've gone through a guide on how to wash a duffel bag; what's about after that? Proper post-washing care and maintenance are essential for the bag's durability. There are some easy-to-do practices to ensure your bag is in good condition for years to come:

• Often inspect your bag: Regularly check for any loosens in the stitching, malfunctioning zippers, or tears in shoulder straps. This early detection will help you promptly prevent significant damage.
• Avoid packing over capacity: Overstuffing your bag can strain the fabric and lead to tears. Even though it can hold more, you must balance the bag's capacity and durability.
• Store the bag properly: To prolong its lifespan, put your bag in a dry and well-ventilated area. This will avoid moisture and limit mold, bacteria, and odors growing in your bag.
• Invest fabric protector spray: This product will be a guard to protect your bag from repelling water and stains. However, to pick the best spray, you should verify the manufacturer's guide on the label.