The odor emanating from this backpack was unbearable.  I really liked the look and style, so I considered washing it to remove the horrible smell.  I have never washed a backpack before, so I was too skeptical to try it; if it did not work, I may not have been able to return it.  Even if washing it did remove the smell, would it be durable enough to survive the process?  I was unwilling to take the chance at this price.