How to Clean the Interior of Your TOM BIHN Backpack and Remove Odors

Your TOM BIHN backpack goes everywhere with you—commutes, hikes, travel, and daily errands. Over time, the interior can accumulate crumbs, dust, sweat, and even spills, leading to unpleasant odors. Keeping the inside clean not only extends the life of your bag but also makes it more pleasant to use. In this guide, we'll walk you through safe, effective methods to clean the interior of your TOM BIHN backpack and remove odors without damaging the fabric or hardware.

Whether you own a TOM BIHN Daylight Backpack, Packable Daypack, 17L or a larger TOM BIHN Aeronaut 45, Multi-carry duffel, 45L, the cleaning principles are similar. Always check your bag's care tag first, but most TOM BIHN bags are made from durable nylon or polyester and can be spot cleaned or hand washed with mild soap.

1. Empty and Prep Your Bag

Start by removing all contents from your backpack. Check every pocket and compartment—you'd be surprised what lurks in the zippered mesh pockets! Turn the bag inside out if possible to access the interior fully. Shake out loose debris and use a soft brush or vacuum with a crevice tool to remove dust and crumbs from corners and seams.

For bags with removable foam frames or stiffeners, take those out if you can. For example, the Aeronaut 45 has a removable foam frame sheet that can be cleaned separately. If your bag has a built-in laptop sleeve, be careful not to soak it—electronics compartments often have padding that retains moisture.

• Remove all items and check every pocket.
• Turn the bag inside out and shake out debris.
• Use a vacuum with a brush attachment for hard-to-reach areas.

2. Spot Clean Stains and Spills

Mix a small amount of mild detergent (like dish soap or a gentle laundry soap) with cool water. Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the solution, wring it out well so it's damp, not wet, and gently blot stained areas. Avoid scrubbing vigorously, as that can damage the fabric's coating or cause pilling. For greasy stains, add a drop of dish soap directly to the stain and let it sit for 5 minutes before blotting.

For stubborn stains inside the main compartment of a bag like the TOM BIHN Daylight Briefcase, Light EDC Briefcase, 8L, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently work the soap into the fabric. Rinse the cloth with clean water and blot away the soap residue. Repeat until the stain lifts.

• Use mild detergent and cool water—no bleach or harsh chemicals.
• Blot stains, don't rub, to avoid damaging the fabric.
• For tough stains, let soap sit for a few minutes before blotting.

3. Deodorize Naturally

Odors often come from bacteria buildup. To freshen the interior without harsh chemicals, sprinkle baking soda generously inside the bag, close it, and let it sit overnight. The next day, shake out the baking soda thoroughly or vacuum it out. Baking soda absorbs moisture and neutralizes odors.

Another effective method is to place a bowl of white vinegar inside the bag (in a well-ventilated area) and let it sit for a few hours. The vinegar smell will dissipate as it dries, taking other odors with it. For a quick refresh, you can also use a fabric-safe disinfectant spray or a mixture of water and a few drops of tea tree oil. Always test on a hidden area first.

• Baking soda: sprinkle, wait overnight, then vacuum.
• White vinegar: place an open bowl inside the bag for a few hours.
• Essential oils: add a few drops to water and mist lightly.

4. Hand Wash the Entire Bag (If Needed)

If your bag is very dirty or smells despite spot cleaning, you can hand wash the entire bag. Fill a bathtub or large sink with cool water and a small amount of mild soap. Submerge the bag and gently agitate it with your hands. Pay extra attention to the interior, especially the bottom and back panel where sweat accumulates. Rinse thoroughly with cool water until no soap remains.

For bags with multiple compartments like the TOM BIHN Truck, 3-Compartment, Large Multipurpose Tote Bag, 25L, make sure water circulates through all sections. Avoid twisting or wringing the bag; instead, press out excess water gently. Never machine wash or dry your TOM BIHN bag, as the agitation can damage stitching and hardware.

• Use a bathtub or large sink with cool water and mild soap.
• Gently agitate, then rinse thoroughly.
• Press out water—do not wring or machine dry.

5. Dry Properly to Prevent Mildew

After cleaning, stuff the bag with clean towels to absorb moisture and help it hold its shape. Let it air dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat sources, which can cause fading or damage to the fabric and zippers. Turn the bag inside out periodically to ensure both sides dry completely. Drying can take 24-48 hours depending on humidity.

For smaller bags like the Forager Cinch Bag, Cinch-Top Bucket Bag, 12.5 L, you can hang it to dry using a clip hanger. Make sure all pockets are open and the bag is fully dry before storing to prevent mildew. If any odor persists, repeat the deodorizing step with baking soda.

• Stuff with towels to absorb moisture and maintain shape.
• Air dry in a shaded, ventilated area.
• Ensure the bag is completely dry before storing.

6. Prevent Future Odors

To keep your backpack smelling fresh, adopt a few simple habits. After each trip, empty the bag and shake out debris. Store it open or with a moisture-absorbing packet inside. Use a small pouch like a TOM BIHN Minimalist Wallets, Slim Style, Fits 6-10 Cards to hold snacks or toiletries separately, preventing spills from reaching the main fabric. Periodically air out your bag, especially after sweaty commutes or gym sessions.

If you carry food or wet items, consider using a waterproof stuff sack or a packing cube. For bags with a dedicated shoe compartment, like the Aeronaut 45, always store shoes in a separate bag. Regular maintenance will keep your TOM BIHN bag looking and smelling great for years.

• Empty your bag after each use and shake out debris.
• Store with a moisture absorber or open to air.
• Use pouches or packing cubes to contain spills and odors.

Cleaning the interior of your TOM BIHN backpack doesn't have to be a chore. With gentle methods and a little patience, you can remove stains, eliminate odors, and keep your bag fresh for every adventure. For a quick daily refresh, consider adding a TOM BIHN Minimalist Wallet to your EDC—it's slim, stylish, and helps keep your bag organized. Explore our full collection of care accessories and bags to find the perfect match for your lifestyle.