Bags are an essential item for people going to school and office. It goes to various places throughout the day, such as bus, metro, office, market and restaurant. For this reason, it is natural for dust to appear on its outer surface. But the problem is not limited to external dirt only. Dust, food pieces and other dirt gradually accumulate inside the bag.
Many times, due to lack of attention to cleaning the bag, it starts smelling from inside and its layer becomes sticky. One of the main reasons for this could be the everyday things kept in the bag.
Things like mobile, keys, purse, tiffin, water bottle, headphones, makeup pouch and tissues keep coming and going in the bag every day. Dust and other particles on the surface of these items can get inside the bag.
If leftover food or small pieces of biscuits-snacks remain in the bag for a long time, the problem can increase. At the same time, leakage of water or any other liquid can cause moisture and dirt to accumulate inside the bag.
The bottom of the bag is often the dirtiest, as it is placed on various surfaces. Sometimes it is on the floor, sometimes under the seat in public transport or on the office floor.
Handles, on the other hand, are in constant contact with the hands. When the bag is held after touching mobile phones, doors, railings and other surfaces with hands, dirt can reach its handle and exterior.
Using the bag as a mini dustbin can spoil its cleanliness. It is a common habit to leave the used tissue in the pocket of the bag after cleaning the nose or face.
Similarly, leftover pieces and packets of food also remain lying in the bag. If these are not taken out on time, the smell and dirt in the bag may increase. Therefore, while emptying the bag every day, check all its pockets.
There is no single rule for cleaning bags that applies to everyone. It depends on its use and the places it comes in daily contact.
If a school or office bag is used daily and is also carried in the bus or metro, it may be better to clean it thoroughly every one or two weeks. At the same time, the handle and the lower part can be cleaned a few times a week.
Cleaning bags that are used occasionally and storing them in a dry place after use can prevent dirt from accumulating.
First of all empty the bag completely. Open all pockets and small pockets and remove dust, pieces of paper, food particles and other debris.
After this, slightly wet the microfiber cloth in a solution of mild soap and water. Gently clean the inside and outside surface of the bag by wringing out the cloth. You should avoid rubbing bags with delicate material too vigorously.
If the bag is made of fabric and is machine washable, wash it as per the care instructions. It is not right to put every type of bag in the machine.
After washing or wiping the bag, it is important to allow it to dry completely. Keeping the bag closed while it is still moist can cause problems like odor or fungus.
Therefore, after cleaning, keep the bag open and allow it to air properly and put the items back in it only after it is completely dry.
Just cleaning the bag is not enough. Mobile, keys, headphones, makeup pouch and other daily used items should also be cleaned from time to time.
Do not keep food items open in the bag. If something leaks from the tiffin or water bottle, do not ignore it and clean the inner surface of the bag immediately. Also, don't let used tissues and other waste accumulate in the bag. This can help keep the bag clean and odor-free for a longer period of time.
