How to Clean Bikepacking Bags: A Quick Guide
Bikepacking is all about adventure, but after countless trip through mud, rain, and dust, your bags can start to show the miles. Keeping them clean not only prolongs their life and ensures your gear stays protected, but it also helps them look their best. Here’s a quick guide on how to clean your bikepacking bags:
1. Empty and Shake Out Debris
Before cleaning, remove all your gear and shake out loose dirt and debris. Open all pockets and compartments, turning the bags inside out if possible. Compressed air is an effective way of removing dirt from zippers.
2. Brush Off Dirt and Mud
Use a soft brush or cloth to remove dried mud and dirt. For stubborn spots, a gentle rub with a damp cloth can help loosen the grime. Pay extra attention to clamps and quick release systems.
3. Hand Wash with Mild Soap
If your bags need a more thorough clean, fill a basin with lukewarm water and add a few drops of laundry detergent specifically designed for sensitive skin and fabrics e.g. baby or silk detergent. Avoid harsh detergents that can damage the fabric or waterproof coatings. Do not use bleach or solvents (acetone, MEK, toluene, DMF, etc). Submerge the bags and gently scrub them with a sponge or soft brush. For Top Tube Bags specifically, the fabric insole can be removed and cleaned separately. If beyond saving, this can also be bought as a spare and replaced. Pay extra attention to seams and zippers where dirt can accumulate we recommend using Gear Aid Zip Cleaner. (gear-aid-zip-cleaner-lubricant)
4. Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse the bags thoroughly with clean water to remove all soap residues. Leftover soap can attract dirt and weaken the fabric over time. You can use a pressure washer on your bikepacking bags, but make sure to set it to a gentle level, similar to what you would use on your bike’s paint. This ensures effective cleaning of the bags without damaging the fabric or waterproof coatings.
5. Air Dry Completely
Hang your bags in a well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight. Sunlight can degrade the fabric and waterproof coatings over time, so it’s best to dry them in the shade. Make sure the bags are completely dry before storing them to prevent mould and mildew. Some stains may linger on the fabric, but as long as the V-mounts and any other areas that contact the frame are thoroughly cleaned, your bikepacking bag will stay in good condition and perform well. If you removed any hardware when cleaning, please remember to apply threadlocking solution (we recommend Loctite 243) and tighten bolts to the recommended torque.
6. Treat Zippers
After drying, consider applying a zipper lubricant to keep the zippers running smoothly we recommend Gear Aid Zipper Lubricant. (gear-aid-zipper-lubricant-stick)
7. Store Properly
Store your clean, dry bags in a cool, dry place. Avoid compressing them too tightly, as this can damage the fabric and zippers over time. Store with zippers open to make sure moisture is not trapped inside.
By following these steps, your bikepacking bags will stay in great shape, ready for your next adventure. Happy riding!
