Cleaning and caring for canvas and nylon backpacks and bags
Styles from a/u by aunts & uncles are made for everyday city life. Whether PU-coated canvas in densely woven organic cotton or certified recycled nylon, our materials are weatherproof, hard-wearing and easy to care for. Most marks can simply be wiped off with water and a little soap. A few simple steps will keep your companion looking good for a long time. Here's what to bear in mind.
Do you have a leather bag from aunts & uncles? Leather care
How to keep your backpack or bag looking good for longer
- Store it properly: keep it in a cool, dry and dark place, such as a wardrobe. Damp cellars and hot attics are not suitable.
- Avoid heat and sun: don't leave it in a hot car or in direct sunlight in summer.
- Clean gently: regular, gentle cleaning with soapy water and a soft cloth is recommended, especially for light colours, so that stains don't penetrate deeply. Harsh cleaning products, alcohol and disinfectants can attack the coating and dry it out. Leather care lotions and other greasy products such as oils and waxes can damage it too. Special care products for PU, on the other hand, restore moisture to the material.
Step-by-step cleaning
1
ALL SERIES
Remove dust
First remove dust and loose dirt with a soft, dry cloth. This stops grit from being rubbed into the material during cleaning and prevents scratches.
2
ALL SERIES
Clean with mild soap
Wiping regularly stops dirt from building up. Surface dirt can be removed with water and mild soap or washing-up liquid. Add a small amount to lukewarm water, dampen a colourless cloth, wring it out well and clean the surface with gentle movements. Then carefully wipe away any soap residue with a clean, damp cloth.
3
JAPAN
Treat canvas stains
For stubborn stains on canvas, a cleaner for PU-coated fabrics can also help. Test it on a hidden area first and avoid heavy rubbing. Afterwards, gently wipe the spot with a damp cloth.
4
ALL SERIES
Let it dry thoroughly
Pat your backpack or bag with a clean cloth and leave it to dry in the open air at room temperature. Don't use a hairdryer or place it on a radiator or in direct sunlight.
5
ALL SERIES
Clean zips and metal elements
Wipe zips, buckles and other metal elements with a dry cloth.
6
JAPAN & JAPAN RE · LEATHER DETAILS
Care for the leather
Used occasionally, a lotion for open-pored genuine leather keeps leather panels and details supple. Put a small amount of lotion on a soft cotton cloth and work it into the cloth before applying it. Never put it directly on the leather, and always use it sparingly. Use the lotion on leather only, not on canvas or nylon.
Frequently asked questions about canvas and nylon care
What should I do if my backpack gets wet?
Don’t worry, our backpacks and bags are made for all weathers. The materials are water-repellent, and we use high-strength thread with a water-repellent finish as well as rain-resistant zips. This keeps your belongings well protected, even in a downpour. Afterwards, simply leave it to dry in the open air at room temperature. Avoid hairdryers, radiators and direct sunlight, as heat can damage the material.
How do I clean the lining of my backpack or bag?
We recommend a soft, damp cotton cloth for the lining. Light marks can be removed with mild soap, while an oxygen-based multi-stain remover helps with heavier soiling. Please avoid heavy rubbing, sponges and rough cloths.
Can I put my backpack or bag in the washing machine?
Our backpacks should not go in the washing machine, as reinforcements and padding can clump together. Handbags from the JAPAN RE LITE series, on the other hand, can be washed on a gentle cycle at a low temperature, ideally in a laundry bag or pillowcase.
Will my backpack stay weatherproof in the long run?
As with all water-repellent materials, the effect can wear off over time. It can then be refreshed with a fluorine-free water-repellent spray for textiles. We’ve had good experiences with IMPREGNO Textil. Apply the spray to freshly cleaned fabric, avoid any leather details and test it on a hidden area first.
Can I have my backpack or bag repaired?
Our repair service fixes the vast majority of defects quickly and easily.
Upcycling tip: cut up an old cotton T-shirt and use it as a cloth for care and cleaning.
We're here for you
Couldn't find the answer to your question? Our Bag Doctor will gladly advise you personally on anything to do with care and repairs: taschendoktor@auntsanduncles.de
