The Ultimate Guide to Caring for Your Ortlieb Bags
When you purchase an Ortlieb bag, you commit to durability. Unlike "disposable" outdoor gear, Ortlieb bags are designed to be washed, cared for, repaired and passed down.
Here is our short FAQ on keeping your gear in peak condition.
How do I clean my Ortlieb bag?
All Ortlieb products can be cleaned with hot water and mild soap. Do not use solvents, alcohol or acidic cleaners.
If your bag is covered in road grime or campfire smoke, fill a bathtub with lukewarm water and a splash of mild detergent or bile soap. Use a soft brush to agitate the dirt off the PVC or PU-coated fabric. Rinse with clean water (not above 60°C / 140°F) and hang to dry.
Note on "Plus" Fabrics: If you have the lighter-coloured Cordura (Plus) version, be aware that dirt can be harder to shift than on the shiny "Classic" material. A dark colour is more forgiving, but a good soapy scrub works for both.
Do I need to re-impregnate my bag?
No. Unlike canvas or leather, Ortlieb bags are not impregnated. The waterproofing is a physical layer (the PVC/PU coating), not a chemical treatment you wash in. As long as youhaven'tburned a hole in the fabric, itremainswaterproof. If the coating fails,look for Ortlieb repair services.
How do I fix a hole or tear?
This is where Ortlieb shines.
- The DIY Method: For small holes (like rodent bites or punctures), reach for GearAid Tenacious Tape or a standard Tip-Top bicycle repair patch. Cut the tape into a circle or rounded square. Apply to a clean, dry surface and press firmly. Users have reported this tape staying on for years, even in saltwater conditions.
- The Pro Method: Ortlieb runs annual "Repair Weeks" (specifically in Canada and Europe) as an alternative to Black Friday shopping. You can send in your bag for professional welding of seams and tears. We also fix loose Velcro patches by upgrading them to the newer buckle systems.
My TIZIP zipper is stiff. What do I do?
For technical reasons, Ortlieb cannot lubricate zippers during production. If your waterproof zipper is grinding or sticking, it needs lubrication. Thesolution: You need a specific TIZIP lubricant (Ortlieb part #E134). Apply it according to the instructions, and it will glide smoothly without compromising the watertight seal. Do not use WD-40 or bike chain lube.
What are the "Top 3 Tips" to extend the life of my bag?
We asked Ortlieb Ambassadors for their wisdom. Here is what they said :
Watch your lean: Most wear comes from abrasion. Be careful how you lean your bike against brick walls or rough wooden fences. The rubbing action is the #1 killer of pannier fabric.
- Belen Toscan
Check your screws: Ortlieb mounting hardware (the QL hooks) can loosen over thousands of kilometers of vibration. Every few months, check the screws on the backplate to ensure your bag isn't wobbling excessively.
-Tristan Bogaard
The Bathtub Soak: After a long tour, soak your bags in the tub to get the heavy mud off. Ensure they are dry inside before storing them to prevent mildew.
-Jonas Deichmann
Can I leave my bag in the sun?
Prolonged exposure to intense UV light can eventually weaken the plastic components of the material. While Ortliebs are tough, if you live in a high-altitude or desert environment, try to store your bags in the shade or indoors when not in use .
Official Recommendation: If your bag is beyond a simple tape patch, contact Ortlieb customer service. Your bag was designed to be repaired, and our repair services ensure it will last for years to come!