How to Clean and Care for Your Neoprene Tote and Backpack

Quick Answer

To clean a neoprene tote or backpack, hand wash it in cool water with a mild detergent, gently scrub stains with a soft brush, rinse thoroughly, and air dry away from direct heat. Avoid machine washing and wringing, as these can damage the neoprene's structure and coating.

Neoprene bags have become a favorite for commuters and travelers because they're lightweight, water-resistant, and surprisingly durable. But that doesn't mean they're maintenance-free. Knowing how to clean a neoprene bag properly keeps it looking sharp and extends its life, whether you're toting a work backpack or a weekend carryall.

The good news: neoprene is forgiving. It resists water and most stains, and a simple routine will keep it fresh. The key is avoiding the common mistakes that ruin neoprene—machine washing, hot water, and harsh chemicals. Here's a practical, step-by-step guide to washing and caring for your neoprene tote or backpack.

Why Neoprene Needs Special Care

Neoprene is a synthetic rubber that's often laminated with fabric on one or both sides. That construction gives it flexibility and water resistance, but it also means the material can be sensitive to heat, agitation, and strong detergents. Machine washing can cause the layers to separate or the neoprene to lose its shape, so hand washing is always the safer choice.

Another reason to be gentle: neoprene can absorb odors and retain moisture if not dried properly. The good news is that with the right technique, you can remove most dirt and stains without any special products. A mild detergent, cool water, and a soft cloth or brush are all you need.

• Always check the care label on your bag first—some styles may have specific instructions.
• Spot test any cleaner on a hidden area before applying it to the whole bag.

What You'll Need

Before you start, gather a few basic supplies. You'll need a basin or sink large enough to hold your bag, cool or lukewarm water, a mild detergent (like baby shampoo or a gentle laundry soap), a soft-bristled brush or sponge, and a clean, dry towel for drying.

Avoid bleach, fabric softeners, and any cleaners with strong chemicals—they can break down the neoprene and ruin the color. If your bag has leather trim or metal hardware, take extra care to keep those areas dry or clean them separately.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process

Start by emptying your bag completely, including all pockets. Turn it inside out if possible, and shake out any loose dirt or crumbs. Use a soft brush or your hand to dislodge debris from seams and corners.

Fill your basin with cool water and add a small amount of mild detergent. Submerge the bag and gently agitate it with your hands, focusing on any stained areas. Use a soft brush to scrub spots gently—avoid heavy scrubbing that could damage the surface. Rinse thoroughly with clean water until no soap remains.

After rinsing, press the bag gently to remove excess water. Do not wring or twist it. Lay it flat on a dry towel, roll the towel to absorb moisture, then reshape the bag and let it air dry away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Never use a dryer.

• For stubborn stains, let the bag soak for 10–15 minutes before scrubbing.
• If your bag has a removable lining or padding, take it out and clean it separately.

Drying and Storing Your Neoprene Bag

Proper drying is just as important as cleaning. Neoprene can hold water in its foam core, so give it plenty of time to dry completely before using or storing it. Air drying in a well-ventilated area is best, but avoid direct sun, which can fade colors, and heat sources like radiators, which can cause warping.

Once dry, store your bag in a cool, dry place. If you need to fold it, stuff it with tissue paper or a soft cloth to help it keep its shape. Avoid hanging it by the straps for long periods, as that can stretch them. With regular care, your neoprene tote or backpack will stay looking fresh for years.

• If your bag gets wet from rain, shake it off and let it air dry before storing.
• Use a fabric shaver or lint roller to remove pilling on the exterior.

Neoprene Bag Care in 5 Steps

1. Empty and prep your bag: Remove all items from pockets and compartments. Turn the bag inside out if possible to access the interior. Shake out loose dirt and debris, and use a soft brush to dislodge crumbs from seams. Checkpoint: Make sure no small items are left in pockets before washing.
2. Hand wash with mild detergent: Fill a basin with cool water and add a small amount of mild detergent. Submerge the bag and gently agitate it, focusing on stained areas. Use a soft brush or sponge to spot-clean without scrubbing too hard. Common mistake: Using hot water or harsh chemicals can damage neoprene. Stick to cool water and gentle soap.
3. Rinse thoroughly: Drain the soapy water and refill with clean, cool water. Rinse the bag until no soap residue remains. Pay extra attention to seams and pockets where detergent can linger. Checkpoint: Soap residue can attract dirt and cause irritation if not fully removed.
4. Press and air dry: Gently press the bag to remove excess water—do not wring or twist. Lay it flat on a clean towel, roll the towel to absorb moisture, then reshape and air dry away from direct sunlight and heat. Common mistake: Using a dryer or hanging the bag while wet can stretch or warp the neoprene.
5. Store properly: Once completely dry, store your bag in a cool, dry place. Stuff it with tissue paper to help it maintain its shape. Avoid hanging it by the straps for long periods. Checkpoint: Proper storage prevents creases and extends the life of your bag.

Neoprene Bags That Benefit from Proper Care

• Landon Carryall in Dune, Large: This lightweight bag is designed to support you on any journey, modest or immense, and unsnaps at the sides to create more room for any unexpected finds you can't leave behind. The Landon Carryall's expandable design means you'll likely pack more, so keeping it clean ensures the neoprene stays fresh even with heavy use.
• Landon Carryall in Dune, Extra Large: Extra long weekend? You need an extra large weekender. Whether you're taking a planned vacay or extending your Sunday into Tuesday, our extra large Landon Carryall has the most room of all its smaller siblings. With extra space for longer trips, this bag is more likely to encounter spills and stains, making regular neoprene care essential to keep it looking its best.

With a little regular care, your neoprene tote or backpack will stay clean, fresh, and ready for whatever you throw in it. Hand washing, gentle drying, and smart storage are all it takes to keep that new-bag look for years.