How to clean a nylon bag
Washing machine: Yes. Most nylon bags are safe to machine wash – although hot water may strain the fabric, making it less durable for future use. So use warm temperatures around 40°C (100 °F).
Hand wash: Yes
Mixed wash: No. A mixture of nylon and other fabrics can cause discoloring and graying of the fabric.
Dryer: No. The intense heat can damage the fabric as well as zipper pulls, straps, etc.
Bleach: No. Bleach can cause damage and yellowing of the fabric.
Hot water: No. When cleaning nylon, using hot water can cause damage and lead to wrinkles.
Detergent: Yes. Preferably use mild detergent when cleaning and removing stains from nylon. Stronger detergent may damage the coloring and the waterproofing of the backpack.
(In this picture: Thule Paramount backpack)
How to clean a polyester bag
Washing machine: Yes. Polyester can in most cases can be machine washed. Hot temperatures should be avoided, though. Go for warm temperatures around 40°C (100 °F).
Hand wash: Yes
Mixed wash: Yes. Polyester doesn't mix with the dye from other fabrics.
Dryer: No. The intense heat can damage the fabric as well as zipper pulls, straps, etc. Polyester is a quick-drying fabric, so just hanging it up will do the trick.
Bleach: No. Bleach can cause miscoloring and damage to the fabric.
Hot water: No. The high heat can cause the fabric to break down and lose its color. Warm water, on the other hand, will not harm the material and is more effective against stains in comparison to cold water.
Detergent: Yes. Average or mild detergent won't harm the fabric. Strong detergent should be avoided.
(In this picture: Thule Exeo backpack)
How to clean a canvas bag
Washing machine: Yes. Canvas can be machine washed, though this process should be done in cold water since the fabric is prone to shrinking.
Hand wash: Yes
Mixed wash: No. Canvas can become discolored when mixed with other fabrics.
Dryer: No.
Bleach: No. Bleach can cause damage and yellowing of the fabric.
Hot water: No. Hot water should be avoided since it can shrink the fabric.
Detergent: Yes. Mild detergent, soap or baby shampoo works just fine.
(In this picture: Thule AllTrail hiking backpack)