Q&A for How to Wash a Kanken

I recommend soaking your Kånken in lukewarm water before you start using it. or gently rub the surface with a soft brush. Make sure it's fully dry (hang it up in the bathroom) before filling it with fun stuff and strapping it on your back. Whatever you do, don't put Kånken in the washing machine.

If you just bought your Kanken, you may want to soak it before you use it to help keep the color from rubbing off on your clothes. Fill a bucket or sink with room temperature water. Place your Kanken in the water and keep it submerged for 30-60 minutes. Then, hang your backpack up to dry for a few hours before you use it and you're good to go!

Some Kanken bags are made to be waterproof. For instance, the Kanken No2 backpack is made out of waterproof material. But not every bag made by Kanken is waterproof. Check the tag or read the product description to find out for sure. If there isn't a tag, look up the bag online to see if it's waterproof.

If you put a Kanken in the washing machine, it could damage or discolor the material. Never wash one in a washing machine. Instead, fill a large bowl with lukewarm water and mix in a few drops mild detergent. Dip a cloth or soft side of the sponge into the washing mixture. Gently wipe to remove light marks or stains. For tougher stains, use a toothbrush to scrub the surface and remove them. Hang up the bag out of direct sunlight to dry when you're finished cleaning it.