Cornhole bags always come into contact with dust, sand, grass or moisture while playing. So many players wonder: are you allowed to wash cornhole bags? The short answer is: no. But there are safe ways to clean and properly maintain them.

In this guide you’ll read:

  • Why cornhole bags must not be washed
  • What happens when bags get wet
  • How to safely clean bags
  • How to prevent wear and extend lifespan

Need more maintenance information? Then check out our complete Cornhole maintenance guide.


Are you allowed to wash Cornhole bags?

No. Cornhole bags must never be put in the washing machine or submerged in water. Most high-quality bags are made with special fabrics and granules or corn kernels that are sensitive to moisture and pressure differences.

Water and cleaning agents cause:

  • Clumping of the filling
  • Hardening of the bags
  • Broken seams due to water pressure
  • Sagging filling or filling that is no longer evenly distributed
  • Mold growth when bags dry poorly

Professional ACL competitions prohibit fully washing bags for exactly these reasons.


What if my Cornhole bags got wet?

Were you playing on wet grass? Or did your bags get hit by rain or dew? Then it’s important to dry them well, but without heat.

  • Lay bags separately from each other
  • Let them dry in a warm, dry room
  • Never in direct sunlight
  • Never on heating or a radiator
  • Never use a hair dryer

Drying too quickly can cause deformation. So let them dry naturally.

Are the bags extremely saturated? Then replacement is often the only safe option. Check out professional alternatives here:
Professional Cornhole bags


How do you correctly clean Cornhole bags?

The best maintenance methods are simple and safe:

  • Clean with a soft, dry brush
  • Rub lightly with a microfiber cloth
  • Let dirt dry and then brush it off
  • Shake bags out well after every playing session

This preserves the structure of the fabric and the balance of the filling.

You can read more maintenance factors in our complete maintenance guide.


Why are Cornhole bags sensitive to water?

Cornhole bags contain corn or plastic granulate. Corn absorbs moisture and expands. Granulate can stick together when damp.

Water therefore affects three important properties:

  • Weight
  • Balance
  • Slide behavior

This makes your throws less accurate, especially with techniques such as airmails, blocks and push shots.


How do you prevent wear and dirty bags?

  • Don’t play on wet grass or muddy surfaces
  • Always store bags in a dry place
  • Use bag covers during transport
  • Let bags dry completely after playing
  • Use only microfiber cloths for cleaning

And very important: after intensive use the fabric structure can wear down. Professionals often replace bags every season.

Check out our selection of high-quality Cornhole bags:
Cornhole Bags – Wicked Wood Games


FAQ – Washing Cornhole Bags

Am I allowed to wash Cornhole bags?

No. Washing machines, hot water and cleaning agents damage seams, filling and texture. Only clean bags dry.

How do I clean Cornhole bags?

Use a soft brush or dry microfiber cloth. Rub away loose sand, grass or dust and let bags dry in a dry room.

What do I do if my Cornhole bags got wet?

Let bags dry slowly in a dry room. Never heat them with sun, radiators or a hair dryer.

Are there bags that may be washed?

No. Even the most premium ACL-approved bags must never be washed. Water affects fibers, seams and filling.

When should I replace Cornhole bags?

When seams tear, you see clump formation, or the fabric is visibly worn. Also, when bags feel permanently irregular after moisture, replacement is advisable.


Conclusion

Washing Cornhole bags is not a good idea. Water and pressure damage your equipment and change the balance, texture and performance. By keeping bags dry and clean, you extend their lifespan and maintain a consistent throwing technique.

Are you looking for quality bags that last a long time? Check out our selection with training, competition and ACL-approved options:
Professional Cornhole Bags.