How to Clean Your Neoprene Dakota Backpack
By Dagne Dover | Published: 2026-10-23
Category: Tips & Care
Keep your Dagne Dover Dakota backpack looking fresh with this simple cleaning routine. Learn the right way to wash neoprene without damaging it.
Quick Answer
Clean your neoprene Dakota backpack by hand with mild soap and cool water, then air-dry away from direct heat. This method preserves the fabric's shape and color without causing damage.
Why Hand Washing Works Best
Neoprene is a closed-cell foam that can break down in high heat or aggressive agitation. Machine washing can stretch the seams, crush the padding, or cause the bonded layers to separate. Hand washing keeps the structure intact and extends the life of your bag.
What to Avoid
Skip bleach, fabric softener, and dry cleaning—they can degrade neoprene's elasticity and water resistance. Also avoid wringing or twisting the bag, which can distort its shape. Instead, press out excess water with a clean towel.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Routine
- Empty and Shake Out: Remove all items from your Dakota backpack and turn it inside out. Shake out any loose debris or crumbs from the pockets and main compartment. Check the key leash and zipper tracks for trapped dirt.
- Spot Clean Stains: Mix a few drops of mild dish soap or laundry detergent with cool water. Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the solution and gently rub any visible marks or stains on the neoprene. Avoid scrubbing hard—neoprene is durable but abrasive scrubbing can dull the surface. Test the solution on an inconspicuous area first, especially on Onyx Shearling.
- Hand Wash the Entire Bag: Fill a sink or basin with cool water and add a small amount of mild detergent. Submerge the backpack and gently agitate it with your hands for 2–3 minutes. Pay attention to the bottom corners and straps, where dirt accumulates. Do not soak for more than 10 minutes, as prolonged soaking can weaken the neoprene.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Drain the soapy water and refill the sink with cool, clean water. Rinse the bag by swishing it around until no soap residue remains. Repeat if necessary. Residual soap can attract more dirt later, so rinse well.
- Press Out Water: Lay the backpack on a clean, dry towel. Roll the towel up with the bag inside and gently press to absorb excess water. Do not wring or twist. Use a second towel if the first becomes saturated.
- Air Dry Away from Heat: Unroll the backpack and reshape it by hand. Hang it over a drying rack or lay it flat on a dry towel in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, radiators, or dryers. Allow 24–48 hours for complete drying. Stuff the main compartment with a dry towel to help it hold its shape while drying.
Product-Specific Care Notes
- Dakota Backpack in Onyx Shearling , Small: The Small Dakota in Onyx Shearling features a plush shearling trim. Spot-clean the shearling separately with a damp cloth and mild soap; do not submerge it fully to avoid matting the fibers.
Dakota Backpack in Onyx Shearling , Small - Dakota Backpack in Dune, Small: The Small Dakota in Dune has a lighter neoprene color. Lighter shades like Dune may show dirt more easily, so clean promptly to prevent stains from setting.
Dakota Backpack in Dune, Small - Dakota Backpack in Storm, Small: The Small Dakota in Storm is a darker, heathered gray. Darker colors hide dirt well, but still require gentle cleaning to avoid fading or uneven color loss.
