How to Clean BrüMate MagPack Soft Coolers: Step-by-Step Guide

Quick answer

To clean a BrüMate MagPack soft cooler, empty it completely, wipe the interior with a mild soap-and-water solution, rinse with a damp cloth, and let it air-dry fully with the lid open. For odors or mildew, use a baking soda or vinegar solution, then dry thoroughly before storing. Avoid harsh chemicals and never submerge the cooler.

Why regular cleaning matters for your MagPack

A soft cooler like the BrüMate MagPack is exposed to spills, crumbs, and condensation every time you use it. If left uncleaned, these residues can trap moisture, leading to unpleasant odors and mildew growth. Regular cleaning not only keeps your cooler hygienic but also helps maintain the integrity of the insulated lining. Since the MagPack is designed for portability, it often gets stored in warm places like garages or cars, where mildew can thrive. A quick wipe-down after each use and a deeper clean every few trips will extend its life and keep your drinks and snacks tasting fresh.

Gather your cleaning supplies

Before you start, gather a few gentle supplies: mild dish soap, warm water, a soft sponge or microfiber cloth, a small-340299">small soft-bristle brush (like a bottle brush), and optionally baking soda or white vinegar for odor removal. Avoid abrasive scrubbers, bleach, or ammonia-based cleaners, as they can damage the cooler's interior lining and exterior fabric. A clean towel for drying is also helpful. If your MagPack has a removable liner or components, check the care instructions—but as a rule, never put the cooler in a washing machine or dishwasher.

Step-by-step cleaning process

• Step 1: Empty and shake out the cooler. Remove all contents, including ice packs or leftover food. Turn it upside down and shake to dislodge crumbs or debris. Mistake to avoid: skipping this step can leave particles that turn into a gritty paste when wet.
• Step 2: Wipe the interior with soapy water. Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water. Dampen a soft cloth or sponge, wring it out, and wipe down the entire interior, including corners and seams. Checkpoint: the cloth should be damp, not dripping, to prevent excess water from pooling.
• Step 3: Scrub stubborn spots gently. For dried-on stains or sticky residues, use a soft-bristle brush with the soapy solution. Work in small circles. Mistake to avoid: using a harsh scrubber that can scratch the lining.
• Step 4: Rinse with a clean damp cloth. Wipe away all soap residue with a cloth rinsed in plain water. Repeat if necessary until no suds remain. Checkpoint: leftover soap can attract dirt and leave a film.
• Step 5: Tackle odors with baking soda or vinegar. If your cooler smells, sprinkle baking soda inside, let it sit for a few hours, then wipe away. Or wipe with a 1:1 vinegar-water solution, then rinse. Mistake to avoid: mixing vinegar and baking soda together—they neutralize each other.
• Step 6: Clean the exterior. Wipe the outside with the same mild soapy water, paying attention to handles and zippers. Use a damp cloth to rinse. Checkpoint: don't forget the bottom, which often picks up dirt from surfaces.
• Step 7: Dry thoroughly. Leave the cooler open in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight until completely dry. This may take several hours. Mistake to avoid: storing it damp, which invites mildew.
• Step 8: Store properly. Once dry, close the cooler loosely or leave a small gap for airflow, and store in a cool, dry place. Checkpoint: avoid compressing it tightly, which can trap moisture.

Preventing mildew and odors between cleanings

Mildew prevention starts with thorough drying after every use. Even if you only used the cooler for a short trip, condensation can form inside. Wipe it dry with a towel before storing. For extra protection, place a desiccant packet or a small container of baking soda inside the cooler when stored. Avoid leaving perishables or wet items inside for extended periods. If you notice a musty smell, clean immediately with the vinegar solution. Also, avoid storing the cooler in humid or hot environments like a car trunk in summer. Regular maintenance will keep your MagPack fresh and ready for your next outing.

Step-by-step cleaning checklist

1. Empty and shake out: Remove all contents, turn the cooler upside down, and shake to dislodge crumbs or debris. Checkpoint: ensure no food particles remain before wetting.
2. Wipe interior with soapy water: Use a damp cloth with mild dish soap and warm water to wipe down all interior surfaces, including corners. Mistake to avoid: making the cloth too wet, which can leave excess water.
3. Scrub stubborn spots: Gently scrub dried-on stains with a soft-bristle brush and soapy water. Checkpoint: never use abrasive scrubbers that can damage the lining.
4. Rinse with clean damp cloth: Wipe away all soap residue with a cloth rinsed in plain water. Mistake to avoid: leaving soap film, which attracts dirt.
5. Treat odors: Sprinkle baking soda inside and let sit, or wipe with a 1:1 vinegar-water solution, then rinse. Checkpoint: do not mix vinegar and baking soda together.
6. Clean exterior: Wipe outside with mild soapy water, focusing on handles and zippers. Mistake to avoid: forgetting the bottom of the cooler.
7. Dry thoroughly: Leave cooler open in a well-ventilated area until completely dry. Checkpoint: drying may take several hours; be patient.

Product facts

• Hopsulator Slim | Guava | 12oz Slim Cans: Hopsulator Slim | Guava | 12oz Slim Cans features a 100% leakproof BevLockTM lid and BevGuardTM triple insulation. If you use this can cooler alongside your MagPack, its leakproof design helps prevent spills that could dirty your soft cooler, making cleanup easier.
• Default Title: This replacement part from BrüMate is designed to keep your cooler functioning at its best, with durable construction and simple installation. If your hard cooler needs a replacement part, this offers a reliable fix, but note it's for hard coolers, not soft-sided MagPack models.