How to Clean and Care for Your Pencil Case

By Home - Fox & Fallow | Published: 2026-10-22

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to clean and care for your pencil case, including fabric pencil case cleaning, washing tips, and maintenance to keep it looking great.

Quick Answer

To clean and care for your pencil case, start by emptying it, then spot-clean or hand wash with mild soap, air dry completely, and store it properly to prevent damage.

Why Regular Care Matters

A pencil case goes through a lot—tossed in backpacks, stuffed with pens and pencils, and exposed to crumbs, dust, and ink marks. Regular cleaning keeps it looking fresh and prevents stains from setting in, while proper care extends its life so you don't have to replace it as often.

Fabric pencil cases, like the Lilac Stripe Large Pencil Case from Fox & Fallow, are durable and functional, but they still need gentle handling to maintain their appearance. Knowing whether your case is machine washable or needs hand washing is the first step to avoiding damage.

Know Your Material

Before you start, check any care label or product details. Many fabric pencil cases are made from cotton or polyester blends, which are usually safe for gentle machine washing, but some may require hand washing to preserve the print or shape.

If you're unsure about the material, treat it as delicate. Avoid harsh detergents, bleach, and high heat, as these can fade colors or warp the case. When in doubt, spot cleaning is the safest option.

Step-by-Step Pencil Case Care

Empty and shake out: Remove all contents, including pens, pencils, erasers, and any debris. Turn the case upside down and shake it over a trash bin to dislodge crumbs and dust. Check pockets and seams for stuck items. Check for ink leaks or damaged pens that could stain the interior.
Spot clean stains: Use a soft cloth or old toothbrush dipped in a mild soapy water solution to gently scrub any visible marks, like ink or dirt. Work from the outside of the stain toward the center to avoid spreading. Rinse the cloth and blot the area with clean water. Test the soap on a hidden spot first to ensure it doesn't fade the fabric.
Hand wash or machine wash gently: For a deeper clean, hand wash in cool water with a small amount of mild detergent, gently squeezing (not wringing) the fabric. If the care label allows, machine wash on a gentle cycle in a laundry bag with similar colors. Use cold water and a mild detergent to protect the fabric and print. Never use bleach or fabric softeners; they can break down fibers and dull colors.
Air dry completely: Reshape the case to its original form and lay it flat on a towel to air dry away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Avoid tumble drying, which can shrink or warp the case. Make sure it's completely dry before refilling to prevent mold or mildew. If the case is still damp after a few hours, flip it inside out to speed up drying.
Store properly: Once dry, store the pencil case in a cool, dry place. Keep it unzipped when not in use for a while to allow air circulation and prevent musty odors. Avoid overstuffing, as this can stretch the seams and zipper. Regularly empty and air out the case between uses to prolong its life.

Pencil Case Care

Lilac Stripe Large Pencil Case - PRE-ORDER (OCTOBER): Fox & Fallow's pencil cases are super durable and super functional, with a beautiful touch of Fox & Fallow Bougie. This means the Lilac Stripe Large Pencil Case is built to withstand daily use, making regular cleaning and proper care worthwhile to maintain its quality and look.
Lilac Stripe Large Pencil Case - PRE-ORDER (OCTOBER)