IS your canvas bag looking a bit grubby or with pesky stain? Here’s how to clean canvas bags, no matter the type you have.

It’s summer and a canvas bag is a win-win for always on-the-go.

Following these tips on proper washing of canvas bags could extend the life of your tote bag.

But the first reminder here is not to use hot water in bright-colored canvas bags as the heat encourages color to run. Always test in a small part first.

* Empty all the pockets and zippers.

* Remove any excess dirt or garbage in the bag.

* Check the care labels for washing guidance.

* Make sure every element of your bag is safe for washing, such as any prints or decorations. If it does have any prints or paintings on it, be sure to wash it at a cooler temperature.

Before you begin cleaning the entire canvas bag, you should remove any stains first:

— Use some liquid detergent or other stain remover and slowly remove the stains with a damp white cloth.

— Don’t scrub the stain, as this could damage the canvas material. Dab firmly instead.

Once any stains are out, you can continue through these steps for how to clean a canvas bag. While most canvas bags are fine for the washing machine, it’s best to play it on the safe side and just hand wash your tote.:

You need soft white cloth, warm water, and dish detergent:

* Dip a clean, soft white cloth in a basin of warm water.

* Wring out any excess water from the cloth.

* Wipe the entire canvas.

* Avoid any printed or colored parts of the bag to prevent color fading and bleeding.

* If contact with water won’t damage any elements of the bag, soak the entire tote in the basin of warm water.

* Clean the bag with the cloth in a circular motion.

How to remove stains from canvas bags

Some stains are quite difficult to get out, such as ink or coffee and require a bit more work. If you need to know how to remove ink from a canvas bag, follow these steps:

* Spray the stain with hairspray to prevent it from spreading.

* Dab the ink stain with paper towels to soak up the ink.

* Blot dry cleaning solvent onto the stained area with a clean paper towel.

* Combine ½ cup of cream of tartar and one quart of hot water.

* Place a sponge in the mixture and squeeze out any excess water.

* Scrub the ink stain with the sponge and continue blotting the ink away with paper towels.

* After removing as much of the stain as possible, dampen the entire canvas with water.

* Leave the bag for 30 minutes before patting the canvas with paper towels and leaving it to dry.