Traveling is great. Exhilarating experiences, new places, lasting memories… but along with the adventure of a fun trip comes all the world’s dirt, right home with you on your luggage. Maintaining a clean suitcase is crucial for both extending the lifespan of your luggage and for ensuring a hygienic travel experience. So what’s the best way to clean luggage, exactly? The methodology depends on whether you have a hard-shell suitcase or a soft-sided fabric suitcase. Below, we’ll delve into the most effective methods for cleaning your luggage, plus a slew of genius luggage-cleaning hacks that will help you make sure it stays in top-notch condition all the time. Ready for a step-by-step guide to cleaning your luggage? Read on!
STEP 1: Prepare, Empty and Assess
Before diving into the cleaning process, empty your luggage completely. Take a careful look at the inside and outside of your suitcase to determine the extent of the dirt and any stains. Check for any spills or leaks that may have happened during your travels. Bonus: Sorting through your belongings will also give you an opportunity to declutter and organize for future trips.
Look for any care tags that might be attached to your suitcase. If you know the brand of your luggage, check the brand’s website for more detailed instructions on cleaning and care.
STEP 2: Organize Your Materials
What do you need to clean your luggage? Here’s a basic list of necessary cleaning items:
- Mild dish soap or laundry detergent
- Warm water
- Soft cloths or sponges
- Baking soda
- Vinegar
- Vacuum cleaner with upholstery attachment
- Toothbrush (optional)
- Soft-bristled brush
STEP 3: Clean the Exterior
How to clean fabric luggage:
- For fabric or soft-shell luggage, start by using a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to remove loose dirt and debris from the exterior.
- Mix a small amount of mild dish soap or laundry detergent with warm water in a bucket.
- Dampen a soft cloth or sponge with the soapy solution and gently scrub the surface of your luggage, paying special attention to any stains or spots.
- Rinse your cleaning cloth or sponge thoroughly and use it to wipe away the soap residue.
- Allow your luggage to air dry completely before packing it away.
How to clean hard-shell luggage:
- Wipe down the hard-shell exterior with a soft cloth dampened in a mixture of warm water and mild detergent.
- For stubborn stains, make a paste using baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the affected areas and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it off.
- Rinse off any remaining soap or baking soda residue with a clean, damp cloth.
- Dry the hard-shell luggage with a soft towel to prevent water spots.
STEP 4: Cleaning the Interior
How to clean fabric luggage:
- Vacuum the interior of your luggage to remove any loose debris.
- Mix equal parts of water and vinegar in a spray bottle.
- Lightly spray the interior with the vinegar solution, focusing on areas that have noticeable stains or odors.
- Use a soft-bristled brush or a toothbrush to gently scrub any stains or grime.
- Wipe down the interior with a clean, damp cloth to remove any excess vinegar.
- Leave your luggage open to air dry completely before packing it for your next trip.
How to clean hard-shell luggage:
- Remove the lining (if possible) and hand wash it with mild detergent and warm water.
- For a hard-shell interior, create a solution of warm water and vinegar, and wipe down the surface with a soft cloth.
- Pay extra attention to any corners or crevices where dirt may accumulate.
- Allow the interior to air dry before reassembling your luggage.
STEP 5: Dealing with Odors
To combat odors, you can place an open box of baking soda or activated charcoal inside your luggage when storing it. These natural absorbents will help neutralize any lingering smells, leaving your luggage fresh and ready for your next adventure.
Bonus hacks for fresh luggage, all the time:
- Dryer Sheet for Odor Removal: Place a scented dryer sheet inside your luggage when storing it. This will help absorb odors and leave your luggage smelling fresh.
- Toothpaste for Scuff Marks: Apply a small amount of non-gel toothpaste to a soft cloth and gently rub scuff marks or stains on hard-shell luggage. Wipe off with a clean damp cloth afterward.
- Baking Soda for Fabric Odors: Sprinkle baking soda inside your luggage’s fabric lining to absorb and eliminate odors. Let it sit for a few hours or overnight before vacuuming or shaking it out.
- Magic Eraser for Stains: Use a melamine foam sponge (Magic Eraser) to remove stubborn stains or marks on hard-shell luggage. Wet the sponge and gently scrub the affected areas.
- Lint Roller for Fabric Luggage: Use a lint roller to remove lint, hair, and other debris from the fabric exterior of your luggage quickly.Dish Soap for Grease Stains: Mix a small amount of dish soap with water and use a soft cloth to gently scrub grease stains on your luggage. Rinse with clean water and allow it to air dry.
