Clean a dry bag by hand: rinse out sand and salt, wash it inside and out with mild soap and warm water, rinse again, then hang it open until it is completely dry before you store it. Skip the washing machine, the dryer, and harsh cleaners, which can damage the waterproof coating.
Most dry bags get dirty in predictable ways. Sand works into the roll-top, salt water dries into a crust, and damp gear leaves a musty smell if the bag gets rolled up wet. All of that is easy to fix with a sink or a hose.
Start by emptying the bag and shaking out any sand, then turn it inside out if it flips easily. Use a soft cloth or sponge with a little mild dish soap and warm water, and pay attention to the roll-top edge where grit collects and can keep the seal from closing cleanly. Rinse thoroughly so no soap film is left behind, especially after a day in salt water.
Then let it dry all the way. This is the step people skip, and it is the one that matters most. Hang the bag open, upside down, out of direct sun, until the inside is bone dry. Rolling up a damp bag is what causes mildew and that locker-room smell.
A few things to avoid: no machine washing, no tumble drying, no bleach or solvents, and no scrubbing with anything abrasive. Those break down the laminated waterproof fabric that keeps your gear dry in the first place. For long-term storage, keep the bag loosely rolled or flat and dry, not sealed tight while damp.
A simple roll-top design like the NIXY 10L Waterproof Dry Bag ($29) makes this easy, since there are no zippers or liners to trap water and it wipes down in a couple of minutes. Rinse it after each salt-water day and it will keep sealing for years.
Frequently asked questions
Can you put a dry bag in the washing machine? No. A washing machine and dryer can crack or peel the laminated waterproof coating and warp the roll-top. Always hand wash with mild soap and air dry instead.
How do you get a musty smell out of a dry bag? Wash it with mild soap and warm water, rinse, then add a little baking soda or a diluted vinegar rinse to neutralize odor. The real fix is drying it fully open every time, since the smell comes from storing it damp.
How do you dry a wet dry bag? Hang it open and upside down in a well-ventilated spot out of direct sun until the inside is completely dry. Never roll it up while any moisture remains, or it will grow mildew.
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