Do White Golf Bags Get Dirty?

 

White is a color that is notorious for getting dirtier than all the other colors. But are things different when it comes to golf bags? 

The simple answer is yes.  White golf bags will appear dirtier than other colors, but does it really matter? You can clean dirty white bags easily with simple cleaning solutions.

Personally I feel that if you want a white colored golf bag, just go for it! I’ve seen some beautifully made white leather bags for sale, so don’t let a little dirt stop you.

And if you continue reading this article, you’ll learn a few simple methods of ensuring your new bag stays as clean as possible!

As we have already mentioned, it’s true that a white colored golf bag is more prone to looking dirtier. Although this is just an illusion, the truth is all colors attract the same amount of dust, dirt and grime. However marks will stand out more on a white surface, and it’s something you need to consider when you’re golf bag shopping.

 

How To Stop White Golf Bags Getting Dirty

Fortunately there are some very simple tricks in order to keep your white bag looking as good as new. 

I’ve tried all these methods and can say that I have good success then I follow them:

 

1. Keep Your Bag Off The Grass

The best thing you can do to keep your bag looking as white as can be, is to not lay it down on the ground. What about only for a little while? No! Never lay it on the grass period. 

I made this mistake when I bought my very first white Sun Mountain bag. Back then I was too lazy to always keep the bag standing upright. I soon learnt that the green grass and a white golf bag don’t mix at all.

If you can master this first step, then you’re making your cleaning duties 90% easier!

 

2. Use A Water Repellent Spray

With many modern golfing bags already being water resistant, choosing a white colored bag is nothing to stress about anymore. If your bag isn’t waterproof though, you’ll want to spray your bag with a water repellent spray. Scotchgard is a brand I like to use, but Nikwax is also a good choice. One can will be plenty, as you’ll only need give your bag a fresh coating every few weeks.

 

How Does Water Repellent Spray Work?

A water repellent spray will create a shiny coating on your bag. Not only will rain drops bounce right off the bag’s surface, but dirt and grime will too. A quick wipe using a warm wet cloth will quickly remove any build up of dirt.

All that’s required is to spray your bag using an up and down motion, onto any area where fabric can be seen. Avoid any plastic areas or pieces, as plastic is already waterproof. 

Allow 24 hours for the coating to completely dry.

 

Benefits of Spraying Your Bag With Water Repellent:

1. Eliminates Moisture
2. Increases Durability Of Bag
3. Keeps Bag Dirt-Free
4. Makes Cleaning Easier

 

3. Clean Your Wedges Regularly

Cleaning your clubs before placing them inside your bag may seem excessive, but it sure is effective. Wedges in particular will have a build up of soil and grass stuck in the grooves after playing a round. As soon as you place your wedge inside your bag and travel to your next hole, the damage is already done.

I must say that wiping your wedges with a wet cloth after each shot is an effective method to keep the dirt away from your bag. 

 

How To Clean Your White Golf Bag?

So far we have discussed ways of preventing your lovely white golf bag from getting too dirty. But what shall you do if the bag is already dirty? Never fear, I also have some handy tips on cleaning that dirty (white) bag of yours!

 

1. Magic Eraser

A very effective method for removing marks from leather bags is using a Magic Eraser. This type of product especially works well on bright colored golf bags.

 

Suitable For:

• Leather
• Vinyl
• Nylon
• Lycra
• Cotton
• Linen

 

Not Suitable For:

• Polyester
• Silk
• Wool
• Suede

 

How Magic Eraser’s Work

The secret to magic erasers are the melamine crystals inside the foam material. When combined with water, it produces a surface like nothing else.

This special product removes pretty much any dirt or scuff mark it comes in contact with. However be careful when cleaning over parts that are painted or generally easier to scratch.

 

2. White Vinegar and Water

At the age of 32 I discovered the cleaning powers of white vinegar. Vinegar has been a godsend for cleaning grout from tiles, or even removing tough stains from my own clothing. 

White vinegar can save your hours of frustration. I have had many long days of trying various expensive cleaning solutions, only to have vinegar be the one thing that worked!

Can you use white vinegar to clean your white golfing bag? Yes you can.

Use the following mix:

1. White vinegar (buy the cheapest liquid you can find)
2. Warm water

Method: Mix 1 part white vinegar to 5 parts warm water. If stains persist add more vinegar to make the solution stronger. After cleaning, rinse your bag with clean water.

Caution: To be on the safe side, use as little amount of the mixture as possible. Although vinegar is very effective, it can dry out certain materials if used excessively.

 

Suitable For:

• Leather
• Polyester
• Cotton

 

3. Soapy Water (and a toothbrush)

If you have no cleaning products accessible, old fashioned soap and water can work well too. Add some white vinegar for an even better solution.

 

Use the following mix:

1. Warm water
2. Soap

 

Method:

Simply use warm water and any type of soap you have. Then start scrubbing your bag with a toothbrush to clean stains.

 

4. OxiClean

OxiClean is a popular cleaning product primarily designed for clothing. However it definitely works great with certain golf bags.  They offer a product called White Revive which sounds perfect for any white bag.

As this is a common product in the US, you may already have some stored in your laundry. If you don’t have it, I would recommend trying the other methods I have shared first.

 

Suitable For:

• Polyester
• Cotton
• Nylon

 

Not Suitable For:

• Leather
• Wool
• Wool blends
• Silk
• Rubber
• Or any fabrics that normally require dry cleaning

 

Extra Tips

• If your bag is wet and needs to be dried, avoid using a hair dryer or clothes dryer. Hanging your bag outside is the only recommended method of drying. Avoid exposing bag to direct sunlight.

 

Cleaning Leather Bags

If I could pick one method to clean leather bags I would suggest trying the Magic Eraser first. These are safe to use on leather, and work very effectively. 

Not only can you clean your bag, but Magic Eraser’s can also remove marks from your golf shoes!

Otherwise, try the white vinegar and water method I discussed earlier. Vinegar with water is a cleaning method I have personally tried, and had excellent results.

 

Cleaning Vinyl Bags

Cleaning a vinyl made golf bag can be a little trickier, but that’s why I’m here to help. The reason I say it’s trickier is because it’s easier to ruin a vinyl bag if you don’t know the right cleaning procedure.

This is why I only recommend these 2 methods:

1. Soap and water
2. Buy a vinyl cleaning solution

Try cleaning with a soap and water solution first. If this fails to clean your bag, then it’s time to open up the wallet.

I like to play things very safe when it comes to vinyl made products. Purchase a specifically designed vinyl cleaning product so you can be sure you won’t damage your bag.

 

Summary

I hope you now feel more comfortable buying that lovely looking white golf bag you have been dreaming about! 

Following the advice I have shared will go a long way in keeping your bags looking new. 

Go Waterproof

If ordering a new bag, I would suggest going with a waterproof bag to eliminate any possible cleaning concerns. Most types of markings on a water resistant bag will simply wipe away. You should read another article I wrote detailing the best waterproof golf bags currently available.

If you plan on keeping your current bag for a while, you should buy a can of waterproofing spray. A fresh coat every few weeks will be sufficient in keeping your bag easy to clean.