Is it possible to wash the thermal bag in the washing machine and the rules for safe cleaning
A cooler bag is an essential item on long hikes. Due to its design, such a bag is able to maintain the temperature of the food inside itself, significantly extending its shelf life. Contrary to the name, the design serves more as a thermos. To prevent unpleasant odors from building up on the unit, it should be cleaned regularly. Let's see how to clean a cooler bag and whether the thermal bag can be washed in a washing machine.
What is an accessory
The thermal bag and cooler bag are essentially the same device. It is a practical and spacious accessory designed to keep food warm during hikes. As a rule, the device keeps the temperature inside itself at the same level for several hours.
Cooler bags are designed to keep the temperature cool. The thermal bag is more versatile and is used as a thermos, able to maintain cold and hot food temperatures. In addition, this device is used to transport frozen food to stores.
thermal bag
The thermal bags have an insulated layer which can maintain the temperature of the food inside. This accessory serves as a large thermos.The isothermal layer is demanding in terms of maintenance, it cannot be cleaned with products containing abrasive substances. The device has a waterproof and transparent design that protects the contents from leaks.
fridge bag
A refrigerator bag is a more expensive and technologically advanced version of the device. It differs first of all by the presence of one or more cold accumulators. Thanks to the battery, the device can cool food to more than four to five degrees Celsius. It comes in the form of a plastic or polyethylene shell with a saline solution. The battery is frozen before using the bag.
Cleaning methods
The method of cleaning a thermal bag from dirt and unpleasant odors depends on the particular variety. Simple models that only work with the thermal layer can be machine washed. Models with batteries connected to the mains or the car cigarette lighter, of course, cannot be washed in any way, otherwise the device will fail and may cause a short circuit when connected to electricity. When washing, it is better to choose the manual option, but you can also use an automatic washing machine.
There are two main ways to safely clean the instrument.
First of all
The first way to clean an accessory is to wash it automatically in the machine. It is possible to wash the bag in the typewriter only if there is no battery connected to the mains. It is better not to use automatic washing if the bag is new, because in this case the fabric and the thermal layer will wear out quickly. The appearance of the accessory and its functional properties deteriorate.The washing temperature should not be set above thirty degrees and should not include a strong spin.
The base plate must be removed before the process. If the stocking is sewn, you will have to tear it and after drying, sew it back on.
Second
The second way to clean the accessory is to wash it by hand. This process is simpler and safer for the thermal bag. You will need a cleaner and a brush. The brush should be moistened with a cleaning agent and gently rubbed over the surface. It is more convenient to use a cloth to clean the interior. Grease stains are best removed with a dishwasher solution. You can use citric acid to remove color stains like fruit.
Rules of care
Rinse the accessory with water after each use. It is better to clean it by hand, since when washing in automatic mode, the bag wears out faster, the properties of the thermal layer are lost. Unfold the bottom before washing. Do not use abrasive cleaners.
When using a thermos bag to store food, fill the space evenly and as much as possible. The bag maintains the temperature better when the food is well wrapped, since, in addition to the thermal layer, they will transmit the desired temperature to each other. Place the most essential products at the top for quick access when opening.
To ensure maximum insulation of the food inside the container, keep the zipper completely closed. For easy storage after use, the bag should be folded horizontally along the folds, fixing the structure with Velcro. If after use an unpleasant smell remains on the surface of the products, there is a way to effectively get rid of it.Simply hold the tea bag inside for a while.
Thermal bag - the accessory is fragile enough, it is easy to damage it if used incorrectly. Therefore, always read the instructions for your model carefully before use. Information on how to wash and care for the bag is usually found directly on the label.
How to dry after washing
To dry your bag, after washing, lay it on a horizontal surface with the open container facing down. Water should drain as much as possible from the inside. After that, the accessory is tightly wrapped with paper. This is to ensure that the bag does not lose its shape. Let the product dry away from heat sources. Make sure it is not exposed to the sun. Once dry, rub the inside of the container with petroleum jelly. Leave it for a while. Then wipe the container thoroughly.
How not to
Do not wash the bag with aggressive products containing solvents and abrasives - this can damage the thermos layer and render the product unsuitable for its intended purpose. Never wash battery bags that are plugged into the mains.Cleaning methods and permitted substances vary by model, so always pay attention to the label that comes with your purchase.