How To Sanitize & Kill Germs On Your Child's School Bag

Stopping the spreading of germs is of utmost concern lately especially since the new Coronavirus outbreak. Washing hands, covering coughs and practicing good overall hygiene is key but what about dangerous germs that are lurking on your kid's backpack, gym bag or even your own purse? How do you get rid of them?

Who knows what kinds of germs your child's bag has picked up from the school floor, locker room or bus but it is time to eliminate the germs before they make your little one or you sick. 

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How To Effectively Sanitize Your Child's Backpack & Your Purse

Before we got to the cleaning part you will need either a large bucket, sink or bathtub so that you can completely submerge the bag or purse. It is recommended to clean one bag or purse at a time with fresh water for each.

1 - The first step is to completely empty the bag or purse tossing out all wrappers, food, and other items that need to be tossed out. Once your child's bag or your purse is completely empty flip the bag inside out. 

*Before you begin the deep cleaning please note that this method is only recommended for faux leather, plastic and cloth bags and purses. This could ruin leather purses or bags so please contact a professional for cleaning advice for leather material. 


2 - Next measure 1/4 cup of liquid laundry detergent into a large bucket or tub of cold water. For a smaller purse or clutch use 1/8 cup laundry detergent. Using a yard stick, broom handle or even a sturdy hanger, stir the detergent and water together then submerge your bag or purse into the soapy water. 

Continue stirring for 2-3 minutes. You might notice the water becoming dark and dirty- YUCK! Empty the dirty water out of the bucket or drain the tub. Rinse the bag with cool fresh water to remove the soap. 

3 - Refill the bucket or tub with fresh water and add 1 gallon of vinegar to the water. For a small bag or purse use a half gallon of vinegar. Again submerge your bag or purse completely for 1-2 minutes. Empty the bucket or tub and rinse with fresh cool water again. 

4 - It is highly recommended to hang your bag or purse outside to dry however if the weather does not allow for this you could put the bag in the dryer on the low or air dry setting to help speed the drying process along. 

Alternative Method To Quickly Sanitize The Outside of Your Backpack, Bag or Your Purse

If you are short on time and can't thoroughly clean your child's bag or your purse grab a multi-purpose Clorox disinfecting wipe and wipe the outside surfaces of the bag. Don't forget the handles or straps! 

Caution - Don't Put Your Purse On The Kitchen Counter!

It is best to make sure bags and purses are not placed on any surface where food is prepared. The kitchen counter top or island is NOT a good place for bags and purses. Food and other things like plates and utensils can easily become contaminated with the germs from the bottom of your purse or bag!

Instead create a place specifically for your kids to hang up their bags after school. Pre-made hook racks are easy to install, look great and keep bags organized and off of counter tops. 

We are all trying to stay healthy so do your part and clean your child's bag to help prevent the spread of those nasty germs!