How to Clean Silicone Wet Bags Properly
By Bumkins | Published: 2026-10-17
Category: How-to Guides
Learn the correct way to wash and care for your Bumkins reusable wet bags. This step-by-step guide covers cleaning, drying, and common mistakes to avoid.
Quick answer
Rinse your Bumkins wet bag immediately after each use, then hand wash or machine wash on a gentle cycle with mild detergent. Air dry completely before storing. Never use bleach, fabric softener, or high heat, as these can damage the waterproof coating and heat-sealed seams.
Why proper cleaning matters
Bumkins wet bags are made from waterproof fabric with heat-sealed seams, not silicone. The single-ply construction prevents mold between layers, but only if you dry the bag thoroughly after each wash. Skipping the drying step or using harsh chemicals can break down the fabric's waterproof barrier, leading to leaks and odors.
Step-by-step wet bag cleaning routine
- Step 1: Empty and rinse immediately: Turn the bag inside out over a trash can to dump any contents. Rinse the interior with cool or lukewarm water to remove residue. Do not let the bag sit soiled for hours, as stains and odors set in faster on waterproof fabric. Checkpoint: If the bag held wet items, rinse both sides to prevent mildew before the next step.
- Step 2: Hand wash or machine wash gently: For hand washing, use a mild detergent and a soft cloth or sponge. For machine washing, place the bag in a mesh laundry bag and select the gentle cycle with cold water. Avoid bleach, fabric softener, and dryer sheets, as they degrade the waterproof coating. Common mistake: Using hot water or harsh detergents can cause the heat-sealed seams to fail prematurely.
- Step 3: Air dry completely before storing: Hang the bag open, inside out, in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Do not use a dryer or place it on a radiator. The bag must be fully dry on both sides before you zip it shut or store it, or moisture will get trapped. Checkpoint: If the bag still feels damp after 12 hours, flip it right-side out and let it dry for another few hours. Never store a damp bag.
Our recommended wet bags
- Wet Bag: Watercolor: The better alternative to single-use plastic bags, our reusable Wet Bags are made from the same waterproof fabric as Bumkins award-winning SuperBib. Our bags feature heat-sealed seams for true waterproof protection. A smooth zipper closure locks away the mess and single-ply construction means no worrying about icky stuff growing between layers of fabric. Single-ply construction directly addresses the common worry of mold or mildew growing between fabric layers, making this bag easier to keep clean and odor-free.
