Sometimes, sandwiches get forgotten about in backpacks over the weekend. Cool bugs are brought home in dirty pencil pouches. As it turns out, the marker caps weren’t pressed down after all. The list continues. These are the real life stories of school supplies, and when accidents happen, you want to be ready for whatever homework comes your way. Here are a few tips for getting your kids’ school supplies clean before packing them away for the summer.

Be Prepared

Before getting started, make sure to pause and take inventory of your cleaning supplies! You don’t want to begin the cleaning process only to find you ran out of something you need to finish the job. Start simple—these are a few basic items to keep on hand:

  • Mild detergent
  • Warm water
  • Spot treatment or stain remover
  • Soft bristle brush or toothbrush
  • Soft rags or cloths

Stay Organized

It may help to sort out your school supplies into similar groups such as backpacks and bags, lunch boxes and containers, pencil cases and pouches, and clothing/school uniforms, etc. This will make the cleaning process more efficient. Don’t forget to empty and remove any loose items or detachable parts before you start!

Cleaning Different Types of School Supplies

Note: Before you start treating or cleaning anything, it’s important to check care labels and follow the manufacturer instructions for each item.

Backpacks and bags

Backpacks can accumulate a lot of dirt over time, and can also take on stains and odors from spills, misplaced snacks, and the list goes on. Start by removing any excess dirt or loose debris. Be sure to check all pockets and compartments to save yourself from any unwanted surprises during the cleaning process.

For smaller spots or stains, you may be able to get away with a simple spot cleaning or light treatment. For larger spills or a more thorough clean, it’s better to give the bag a good soak first. To do this, you can fill a bin or large container with lukewarm water and add a small amount of detergent. Mix the water and then add the backpack, letting it soak for 30 minutes or so.

Next, take it for a spin through the washing machine. Most backpacks will suggest using cold water and a gentle or delicate spin cycle. It may help to turn the backpack inside out to ensure the interior gets a good clean as well. Once the cycle finishes, promptly remove the backpack and let it air dry. If possible, fresh air and plenty of sunlight will give you the best results. Try not to hang it up where it’s dark or damp. If your options are limited, try to place it near a dehumidifier to help ward off any mold or mildew.

Lunch boxes and containers

Fabric and plastic lunch boxes require regular cleaning. For fabric lunch boxes, gently wipe the exterior surface with a wet, soft cloth and mild detergent solution. For plastic lunch boxes, wash with warm, soapy water to remove any stains or leftover food residue. Thoroughly rinsing and drying your lunch box will help protect from any unwanted stains or odors.

Pencil cases and pouches

Pencil cases or pencil pouches are made with different materials, including fabric and plastic. If you’re cleaning fabric pencil cases, you’ll want to be gentle to avoid damaging the material. Hand-wash first, using mild detergent and warm water, then air dry. For plastic pencil cases, wash with warm, soapy water, paying close attention to any pencil marks or ink stains. Be sure to rinse and dry before reusing.

School uniforms/clothing

Lastly, and it bears repeating, always refer to specific care instructions provided by the clothing manufacturer. Because uniforms and clothing come in so many different materials and fabric blends, there you will find the most helpful advice for washing and removing stains from each garment type. As a general rule, remember to treat any stains promptly for the best results. Dry in the same manner, or air dry if you want to play it safe and avoid any clothes shrinking or colors fading.

General Maintenance and Cleaning Tips

Consistency is key

To keep school supplies in top shape, make regular cleaning a part of your routine. Consider cleaning them once a month or before the start of each semester. This goes especially for items most frequently used or those that really take a good drubbing.

Be on stain patrol

Accidents are sure to happen, and with kids, stains are inevitable! Be sure to move quickly when stains occur, as this will give you the best results when all is said and done. Gentle cleaning methods and milder stain treatments tend to work best for all types of stains as they will do a better job at preserving the material quality of your supplies.

Drying and storage

After washing or cleaning your items, ensure your school supplies are thoroughly dried before putting them away. This step is essential to preventing mold and mildew. Much like stain patrol, keeping things gentle and mild will be your safest bet. Air-drying is usually the best option, but you can also use low heat settings on dryers for some specific items. Finally, be sure to store your supplies in a clean, dry area to protect them for future use.

Routine cleaning and care is the best way to make sure those school supplies last from the morning bell to the last bell of the day. Keep these tips in mind the next time your favorite student brings home a new cleaning assignment.