How to clean your pack

A solid hike or hunt leaves more than memories. It leaves dust, sweat, mud, blood and that unmistakable scent of honest work pressed into every thread of your pack. Grime may be a badge of honour, yet leave it there, and your gear will wear faster, hold more water on future trips and smell like the back of an old ute. Cleaning your pack is not a chore. It is smart aftercare that protects your investment and keeps your gear performing at its best for seasons to come.

Nikwax keeps things simple. Environmentally friendly aftercare that actually works. Everything is water-based, biodegradable and free from nasty chemicals, which means you can clean your pack properly without harming the bush you love.

Step one: empty, shake, brush

Start by stripping your pack of every loose item. Turn it upside down and give it a good shake to release dirt, leaves and any old biscuits you forgot were in there. Use a soft brush to remove dried mud and loose debris. The cleaner the surface, the better the wash will work.

Step two: hit grime (even blood!) with Nikwax Stain Scrub

Hiking and hunting can leave stains that are stubborn by nature. Blood, fat and ground-in soil can cling to fibres and resist a normal wash. This is where Nikwax Stain Scrub earns its keep.

Wet the stained area with cold water, then apply a small amount of Stain Scrub. Massage it gently with a soft brush or cloth. The biodegradable formula breaks down tough organic residues without damaging technical fabrics. Rinse lightly to remove the lifted grime. This pre-clean makes the rest of your washing far more effective.

Step three: washable parts straight into the machine

If your pack has removable harnesses, frames or hip belts, detach them. Pop the washable parts into a front loader with the recommended amount of Nikwax Tech Wash. Run a cycle at 30 °C. Tech Wash removes dirt, revives breathability and restores the fabric’s durable water repellent properties.

Avoid standard household detergents. They leave residues that attract moisture and reduce the fabric’s performance.

Step four: hand wash rigid or structured packs

If the frame cannot come out, use a tub or bath filled with 30 °C water and Tech Wash. Work over the fabric with a sponge or soft brush. The earlier pass with Stain Scrub means you will not need to scrub aggressively. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.

Step five: reproof the fabric

Clean fabric is only halfway there. To restore full water beading and long-term protection, apply Nikwax TX Direct wash in or spray on while the pack is still damp. The treatment bonds to the fibres and helps water roll straight off. Your pack will absorb less water, weigh less in the rain and dry faster back at camp.

TX Direct is water-based and environmentally responsible, ideal for hikers and hunters who do not want their aftercare to harm waterways or soil.

Step six: air dry in the shade

Let your pack air dry out of direct sunlight. Heat and harsh UV can weaken coatings and shorten the life of your gear.

Ready for the next adventure

A pack that has been treated with Stain Scrub, Tech Wash and TX Direct feels lighter, works better and lasts far longer. This is the full Nikwax system in action. Three simple steps. No harsh chemicals. No fuss. Just reliable aftercare that keeps NZ outdoor adventurers ready for whatever the bush throws next.