How To Clean Osprey Backpack (Wash & Care Guide)
Osprey backpacks are renowned for being some of the best backpacks on the market. They’re known to be durable, compact, and stylish, but they're also one of the easiest backpacks to clean and maintain. This guide will take you through all the best ways to take care of your backpack so you can help it last longer.
All About Osprey Backpacks
Osprey was founded in 1974 in California, so they have almost 50 years of experience making backpacks. They started with a really simple idea, to make innovative backpacks that combine function with form. They may have started small, but now Osprey is one of the most recognized brands on the market with a presence in all major countries in the world.
Osprey are backpack specialists, and unlike some of their competitors, they have stayed pretty focused. In 1976 they launched their unique breathable mesh, which is extremely durable but lightweight. This has been developed over the years but has fundamentally remained the same.
Osprey is a luxury brand. They have an ethos to make long-lasting products that are more eco-friendly, and this comes with a higher price tag. Many of their most popular products are made from leather and require specialist maintenance, but you should consider an Osprey backpack an investment. They really are well made and do stand out, so if you put the time in, you'll get a lot out of it.
Popular Osprey Backpack Models
Osprey has become so popular not just because of their products but because of their ethos. They guarantee all bags for life, and really it’s the quality that’s created a dedicated customer base. Osprey bags come in all sizes, shapes, and models, but they are definitely best suited for traveling. They have a wide range of bags which suit backpackers, climbers, cyclists and for a range of sports. Osprey bags are all designed with a unique purpose and have different features built into them.
There are a few features you can see in all of the best Osprey backpacks. The materials are particularly durable and, in most models, designed to be resistant to the elements. They have a wide variety of sizes to suit the user, with smaller backpacks for day outings and larger backpacks for longer trips. They have many different pockets and compartments so you can easily store all your belongings, and they have resistant zips and pockets to help keep it all secure.
Alongside these features, Osprey has a wide variety of styles to meet your needs. This allows function to meet form in a way that other brands don’t. They also have an impressive lifetime warranty to guarantee your purchase. There’s a lot of reasons to pick Osprey, and these are some of the most popular models:
How to Wash Osprey Backpacks: Step by Step Guide
Osprey backpacks are washable, and you should make an effort to take good care of them. However, you usually can't just throw it in a washing machine, and you have to be careful about how you approach cleaning an Osprey backpack.
A step by step guide to washing an Osprey backpack is below, but before you get started, make sure you have a soft sponge, a soft brush (a toothbrush works best), and clean, warm water.
1. Check the label
Before starting anything, you should check the label on the backpack. This will give you step-by-step instructions of what you need to do for that specific model.
2. Remove everything from the bag
Take everything out of the bag and make sure it’s completely empty. You should remove all the different detachable parts, the straps, harnesses, and other parts that clip on or off the backpack.
3. Using lukewarm water and mild soap, clean the backpack.
Add mild soap to the warm water. Make sure you don’t use any harsh or chemical products because they can damage or stain the backpack. Take your sponge and with the warm water, gently clean the surface of the backpack. Don’t scrub or press too much; this will come in the next step.
4. Start gently scrubbing
Take the toothbrush (or other brush) and scrub the backpack. This will help get rid of any tougher stains or spots, but make sure you don’t press too hard, or you may damage the backpack.
5. Remove tough stains
Some tough stains can be more challenging to remove. This is specially for hiking or even hunting backpacks. Take your brush with warm, clean water and move it in concentric circles to slowly remove the stain. This may take time, and be patient, don’t force the process.
6. Allow to air dry
A common mistake is to use a hairdryer or other device once the backpack is clean. You should never do this, and always allow it to dry naturally, or the material can change shape or become damaged because of the heat. It may take up to 24 hours for the backpack to dry.
7. Avoid using washing machine
If you’re in a rush, it may be tempting to just throw it in the washing machine. Don’t do this.
Using a washing machine to clean your Osprey backpack can damage the material, cause colors to run, and impact the shape of the backpack.
This is the best way to clean an Osprey backpack, but you can find our full guide to cleaning backpacks here.
Soft Cleaning & Maintenance of Osprey Backpacks
Soft cleaning is where you use gentle products and tools to clean without causing damage. This is a great method to use with backpacks because it will help you maintain them without damaging the materials and shape of the bag.
You should use soft sponges for a broad stroke approach across the backpack and only focus on specific stains as needed. This will help maintain the material and prevent you from scrubbing off any of the material that helps keep your laptop durable and weather resistant.
Be sure to clean gently and don’t rush the process. Look for specialist, gentle soaps where possible, and always avoid any harsh cleaners which could damage or stain the backpack. There is no hard or fast rule for how often you should clean your backpack, so only do it as needed. This will help keep your backpack in optimum condition for longer.
People Also Ask (FAQs)
Can I machine wash Osprey backpacks?
No, you should avoid machine washing Osprey backpacks as it can damage them.
How do you get rid of the bad smell on Osprey backpacks?
If washing your backpack doesn’t get rid of the bad smell, you should use a specialist odor removal spray.
Are all Osprey backpacks waterproof?
All outdoor Osprey backpacks are waterproof and resistant to the elements. You should check the individual specifications of the model before you use it in different conditions.
How often should you clean your water bladder?
Water bladders that are attached to your backpacks should be cleaned every time you use it and rinsed out thoroughly. If you aren’t using it, you should try and clean it once a week to stop any bacteria from building up.
Conclusion
Osprey backpacks are a luxury, and there’s a reason everyone wants one. They do cost more, but if you look after them, then you really can use them for a lifetime. Make sure you don't rush the cleaning process, and use this guide to clean and maintain your backpack in a safe and durable way.
