How to Store Backpacks

To store backpacks, start by emptying them fully and giving them a thorough cleaning before packing them away. Clean, dry backpacks last longer and stay organized for your next trip, school year, or outdoor adventure.

Step 1: Clean Inside and Out

Shake out any crumbs, dirt, or debris. Use a damp cloth to wipe the interior, paying attention to corners and pockets. Spot-clean stains with mild detergent and warm water. For heavy fabric backpacks, a gentle cycle in the washer (if care labels allow) can help, followed by air drying.

Dry completely before storing. Damp fabric can lead to odors or mildew.

Step 2: Maintain Shape

Stuff backpacks lightly with paper or clean towels to help them stand upright. Close all zippers and buckles so straps and fabric don’t snag on other items.

Step 3: Pack in Containers

If you have several backpacks, place each in a cotton bag or a large plastic bin. Store smaller bags inside larger ones to save space. Keep the bin loosely closed to allow airflow. Label it with the types of backpacks—school, travel, or hiking—so you can find what you need quickly.

Step 4: Organize in Your Storage Unit

Store backpack containers on shelves or in the same section as luggage or sporting gear. Avoid stacking heavy boxes on top of them. Keep hiking packs or frame packs upright to preserve their structure.

Step 5: Long-Term Storage

For long-term storage, place silica gel packets in each bag to absorb any residual humidity. Recheck occasionally to keep everything dry and fresh.

Storing Made Simple

A few minutes of prep goes a long way. Clean, stuffed, and labeled backpacks are ready for your next use, whether it’s a school day or a weekend trip. With extra space at Public Storage, you can stash away your backpacks neatly and keep your home decluttered and organized year-round.

Features and amenities vary by location, facility, and unit. “Climate-controlled” and related terms (such as air-conditioned, heated, or humidistat-equipped) describe storage spaces designed to help maintain more consistent temperature or humidity levels compared to non-climate-controlled units. Public Storage does not guarantee temperature or humidity ranges. Availability, features, and unit types may differ by location, facility, and unit. Please confirm with your facility whether specific climate-controlled features are available on units at that location.