How to Wash a Laptop Bag In Washing Machine? (Step-by-Step)

Laptop bags are bags that hold your laptop and other accessories.

They are usually made of a thick material and are designed to protect your laptop from damage and make carrying convenient and easier.

Just as we keep our laptops clean and tidy, in the same way, we should also take care of our bags.

In this article, we will walk through the step-by-step process of washing them in an effective manner.

What is a laptop bag?

To carry a laptop, we use a laptop bag. These bags come in different sizes to hold laptops and their accessories. Just like other bags they are made using different materials such as leather, cotton,  nylon, neoprene, EVA, polyester, and other synthetic materials.

Over time they tend to accumulate dirt and dust and hence they need regular cleaning. Let us look into the various methods to clean these laptop bags with care.

Can we wash laptop bags in the washing machine?

It depends on the material used to make these bags. Because they are made using different fabric materials and most bags have a care tag with washing instructions. These care labels are printed on a piece of fabric stitched on the inside of the bag. 

Most bags are suitable to wash using hands and some may be suitable for a machine wash. Machine washing a laptop bag has a higher chance of damaging the padding inside the bag, hence hand washing is said to be the best method.

How to Wash a Laptop Bag?

Whenever we think of washing a bag the first thing that comes to our mind is to wash them by hand. This method is the most preferred way when it comes to a laptop bag. You may consider washing them in your washer but you need to be very cautious in doing so.

Let us start with the wash process step-by-step.

Prerequisites

Read the Care Label

You will need to check the care label before you start the cleaning process.

If your bag is made using leather material then you may need to handwash them or treat them with leather cleaning solutions.

Pre-Treat (For washable laptop bags)

Before you start with the pre-treating process remove other belongings from the laptop bag and empty them. Check each and every pocket and the corners.

Next, Pat the bag gently to remove excess dirt.

If the bag is too dirty then simply, soak them in a large bucket mixed with water and a mild detergent.

Let it settle for 15 minutes in the solution.

Hand wash process

To hand wash your laptop bag you will need a large bucket, water, and a mild detergent.

Step 1: Fill a bucket with lukewarm water.

Step 2: Now add a mild detergent and let it mix with water.

Step 3: Place the empty laptop bag in it and rub its outer surface using a soft brush. You may also dip and remove the bag from the bucket multiple times.

Step 4: Now rinse the laptop bag using clean water and follow the dip and remove process to remove soapy residues.

Step 5: You may now soak excess water with the help of a soft towel by wrapping it around the bag. Now hang the laptop bag for air-drying and avoid exposing it to direct sunlight. Dry them in the shade instead.

How to Wash a Laptop Bag in Washing Machine?

If you are washing the laptop bag in the machine, then make sure you are washing them in a front load washer.

Step 1: Empty the laptop bag completely. Pull out any removable pads or sheets from the bags.

Step 2: For added protection place the bag in a pillowcase. This will also avoid the straps from tangling during a wash.

Step 3: Add a mild detergent to the washer.

Step 4: Use cold or warm water settings and run on a delicates cycle.

Step 5: After washing you may leave the bag for air drying on a flat surface or on a drying rack. 

Note – Once the laptop bag dries you can bring it to shape before use. Simply insert a few paper balls or towels inside the bag and leave it for around 30 minutes.

Addressing potential risks and precautions you must take when washing laptop bags

Avoid Harsh Detergents

When washing a laptop bag, avoid using harsh detergents, bleach, or strong chemicals.

These can damage the fabric or leather, fade colors, and weaken stitching.

Instead, opt for mild detergents or cleaners specifically designed for the bag’s material.

Hand Wash for Delicate Bags

If your laptop bag is made of delicate materials like leather or has intricate details, it’s best to hand wash it.

Machine washing can be too rough on such bags and may lead to tears, deformation, or color fading.

Use Cold Water

When washing a laptop bag by hand or in a machine, always use cold or lukewarm water.

Some materials may shrink or become distorted when exposed to hot water.

Check Care Labels

Always read and abide by the manufacturer’s directions on the care label.

The care label will indicate whether the bag is suitable for machine washing, hand washing, or if it requires professional cleaning.

Test Cleaning Products

Before applying any cleaning solution or detergent to the entire bag, test it on a small inconspicuous area.

This will help ensure that the cleaner does not cause discoloration or damage.

Protect Hardware and Zippers

If the laptop bag has metal hardware or zippers, be cautious while cleaning around them.

Harsh scrubbing or machine washing can scratch or damage these components.

Avoid Overloading the Machine

If machine washing is suitable for your bag, do not overload the washing machine.

The bag needs enough space to move freely during the wash cycle.

Use a Gentle Cycle

If you are using a washing machine, select a gentle or delicate cycle to minimize agitation and prevent potential damage.

Air Dry

Always air dry the laptop bag after washing, as using a dryer can lead to shrinkage, warping, or melting of certain materials.

Avoid Direct Sunlight

When drying the bag, avoid exposing it to direct sunlight. Sunlight can fade colors and cause certain materials to become brittle.

Shape the Bag

Once the bag is dry, gently reshape it to its original form. Use tissue paper or towels inside the bag to help it retain its shape.

Recommended cleaning methods for laptop bags made of specific material

Leather Laptop Bags

• Handwash with lukewarm water: To clean your leather laptop bag, dip a towel or microfiber cloth in a cleaning solution, then wipe it down. Next, let your leather bag air dry naturally.
• It’s important that you avoid using harsh chemicals that may damage the leather’s surface.

Cotton Laptop Bags

• Handwash with mild detergent in lukewarm water.
• Gently scrub the surface to remove dirt and stains.

Nylon Laptop Bags

• Handwash or machine wash on a delicate cycle using cold or lukewarm water.
• Place nylon bags in a pillowcase or laundry bag during machine washing to protect them.

By following these specific washing procedures for different materials, you can keep your laptop bag clean and well-maintained for extended use.

Final Thoughts

Cleaning your laptop bags is not a regular task but needs to be followed when required.

Using proper cleaning methods and steps prolongs the life of these bags.

Always refer to the care labels for additional wash instructions for a specific material type.

Do not machine wash a bag if they don’t fit into their wash tub.

Frequently Asked Questions