After enduring all the rough handling and various weather conditions, now your duffel bag is asking for proper maintenance and cleaning. Duffel bags are often used for travel, gym, and outdoor adventures. It usually face unpredictable conditions that may worse in rainy season. Over time, dirt, moisture, and wear can cause damage if you don’t take care of it. Proper maintenance will not only keeps your bag looking good and functioning well for a long time but also it can extend its Longevity. Here we’ll share some valuable tips that helps you to keep your bag in lush condition for years to come.
Regular Maintenance Tips
- Empty the Bag After Every Use: If you’re a lazy fellow and won’t empty it after usage it can cause serious damage to your baggage. Therefore it is recommended, After each trip or use, make sure you remove everything from your duffel bag. This prevents dirt, crumbs, or moisture from building up inside.
- Check for Wear and Tear: Investing in duffel bag can be a good investment, it is always better to fix small issues on the spot. Look for any signs of wear such as frayed seams or broken zippers. You can easily repair these issues at home.
- Store It Properly: After a long trip, your duffel bag deserves to be kept in a safe place. Store your duffel bag in a dry and cool place when you’re not using. Avoid keeping it in damp areas like basements or garages where mold and mildew can form.
How to Clean Your Duffel Bag
Whether your bag is designed to clean in machine, it is best to wash it in hand which is considered as a safest method. For a delicate bag follow these few steps:
Step 1: Empty the Bag Completely
Make sure all pockets are emptied and shake out any dirt or debris inside. It is better to clean the outer layer with a dry cloth to remove dust.
Step 2: Prepare Soapy Water
Pour some tape water and mild soap in a basin. Avoid harsh detergents or chemicals that can damage the fabric.
Step 3: Gently Scrub
Using a soft cloth or sponge, scrub the exterior and interior of the bag. Microsoft fabrics is the best option for this purpose. Don’t neglect any stained areas to get good results.
Step 4: Rinse and Dry
Rinse the bag thoroughly with clean water and air dry it. Do not put your duffel bag in the dryer, as high heat can shrink or damage the fabric. Moreover it is not recommende to dry the bag under direct sunlight as it can fade its color.
Machine Washing Your Duffel Bag
On the other hand, if you’re sure enough to wash your bag in machine, you can follow these few steps. However, you need to check the care label first.
Step 1: Place in a Laundry Bag
Put your duffel bag in a large laundry bag or pillowcase to protect it from getting damage in the machine. You can easily purchase one online or from a good store.
Step 2: Use a Gentle Cycle
To wash the bag in a machine it recommended to use a gentle cycle and normal water. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals to prevent damaging.
Step 3: Air Dry
Let the duffel bag air dry. Don’t expose the bag directlyin the sun as it may fade the color. Moreover make sure to dry it completely to prevent it from moisture or molds.
Special Care for Leather Duffel Bags
If you’ve a leather duffel bag, don’t skip the page, because we’ve got the solution. Leather duffel bags need extra care to keep the material looking fresh and free from cracks. You can easily clean it with a damp cloth for minor stain. Avoid soaking the leather in water. Use a leather conditioner every few months to keep the material soft and prevent it from cracking. When not in use, stuff the leather duffel bag with soft material, like a towel, to help it hold its shape. Store it in a dust bag or a cotton pillowcase to prevent scratches.
Taking a little extra time to care for your duffel bag will ensure it serves you well on all your future adventures.
