Yet another bag washing question

[aedifica]

I have an aged Smart Alec with Steel exterior (Solar interior!), and lately I've been noticing that the top of the Steel portion is looking pretty grungy. I think I'm clear on how to wash it (use a mild dish soap, let it soak for a while, use a soft toothbrush to scrub anything that needs scrubbing), and when re-waterproofing with Nikwax I know to apply it while the bag is still wet, thanks to other Forum members' experiences.

However, I haven't noticed anyone talking about what parts of the bag they're applying the waterproofing to. Should I apply Nikwax to the lining, too? Or just to the exterior?

[BigBadD]

I have not yet felt any need to reproof my Tom Bihn bags, but on other bags I only reproofed the exterior materials. But that's only because I didn't stop to consider whether any value to also apply to interior...? So interesting question. Agree totally with caution to apply reproofing when bag is still wet.

[ejvc]

Logically waterproofing needs only to be applied to the exterior unless you think it may rain inside the bag? :-)

[Cristina]

It probably isn't necessary unless the exterior waterproofing fails. But I am sure a couple of sprays inside couldn't hurt as long as you follow the same instructions to wipe with a damp cloth. Let us know how it goes!


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[BWeaves]

I washed a stain off my Sidekick and it removed the waterproofing. Since it pours in Florida, I really want to rewaterproof the bag, but I'm having a hard time finding the spray Nikwax.

What's it called (exact wording) and where can I buy it or order it from?

[aedifica]

I washed a stain off my Sidekick and it removed the waterproofing. Since it pours in Florida, I really want to rewaterproof the bag, but I'm having a hard time finding the spray Nikwax.

What's it called (exact wording) and where can I buy it or order it from?

It's Nikwax Tent & Gear Solarproof, it comes in spray and concentrated versions (the latter is to be diluted and put in a spray bottle). TB carriers the latter right now and I found the former on Amazon. Good luck!

P.S. Last night I learned that Nikwax products with green lids are for cleaning and the ones with purple lids are for waterproofing; mentioning it in case that's useful knowledge for you too.

[aedifica]

Logically waterproofing needs only to be applied to the exterior unless you think it may rain inside the bag? :-)

I use the Smart Alec most often for carrying groceries, so it could rain all kinds of things inside the bag! Salsa, distilled water, juice, even eggs...

[aedifica]

I use the Smart Alec most often for carrying groceries, so it could rain all kinds of things inside the bag! Salsa, distilled water, juice, even eggs...

And I think that answers my own question. I'll apply the Nikwax inside and out... after I order the Nikwax and get around to washing the Smart Alec.

[Kirk]

I had a plastic water bottle fail inside my Brain Bag 2nd main compartment while I was traveling in India. The compartment was fully waterproofed and contained all of the water, isolating it completely from my other main compartment - the one with my laptop and iPad in it. Beautiful quality.