How to Clean a Suitcase (and Why You Should), According to Luggage Experts

Have you ever thought about how, once you’ve checked your luggage, it goes on a journey of its own? Traveling down conveyor belts, bumping around on baggage carts and in cargo holds, suitcases quickly pick up scuffs which can be hard to remove. Not only that, they can also bring home any number of germs, bacteria, and allergens. Suitcases can even be carriers of bed bugs, especially if they have spent time in hotel rooms and on hotel beds. 

To learn exactly how to clean a suitcase, we consulted luggage experts. Read on so that you can protect your house and home while keeping your suitcase in pristine condition.

Why You Should Be Cleaning Your Suitcase

According to Andy Choi, co-founder and head of operations at Aer, a travel gear company, "A clean suitcase lasts longer, works better, and feels better to use." So it's worth taking the time to care for your luggage piece. Regular cleaning will prevent stains and long-lasting odors from setting in, plus help avoid dirt and grime build-up.

Fortunately, cleaning your luggage is a simple process and can be done with mild household products. (You'll want to avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the materials.)

How Often Should You Clean Your Suitcase?

It’s important to regularly and consistently clean your suitcase for best results. TUMI luggage expert Sarah Harris recommends cleaning your luggage after every trip, no matter how short or long, in order to best maintain and extend the life of your luggage.

Choi adds to pay special attention to wheels and handles, especially if you travel often. He also suggests a thorough cleaning before placing your luggage away in storage.

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Supplies

• Soft-bristled cleaning brush (or old toothbrush)
• Mild dish soap
• Cleaning cloth
• Cotton swabs
• Rubbing alcohol
• Antibacterial wipes
• Handheld vacuum or brush attachment
• Mild laundry detergent
• Baking soda
• Mr. Clean Magic Eraser (optional)

How to Clean Luggage Wheels

“Wheels take on the most wear,” says Choi, ”from sidewalks to airport floors.”

1. Use a soft brush or an old toothbrush to remove any dirt and debris from the wheels. 
2. Using a clean cloth, wipe down the wheels with a mixture of warm water and mild dish soap. 
3. Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to clean around the axle, if needed. 
4. Make sure that the wheels are fully dry before your next trip or before putting in storage. 

How to Clean Luggage Handles 

“Since handles are constantly touched," Choi notes, cleaning them thoroughly is essential.

1. Wipe down grab handles and telescoping handles with a cleaning cloth dipped in warm soapy water or a disinfecting wipe.
2. Extend the telescoping handle fully so that you can clean the entire surface.
3. Wipe down the long handles with a cleaning cloth and the same soap and water mixture.
4. Allow to dry before re-inserting the handle into the luggage.

For Zippers

Zippers can acquire a lot more grime than you might think. To clean, Harris recommends using a soft-bristle cleaning brush with warm water and a mild dish soap and water mixture.

How to Clean Suitcase Interiors

You may think that the interior of your suitcase is protected from dirt and germs, but our experts say otherwise. Follow these steps to clean the interior of your suitcase to have a fresh start on your next trip.

1. Empty the suitcase and shake out any debris, advises Choi.
2. Use a handheld vacuum or brush to clean corners and seams.
3. If needed, use antibacterial wipes for surfaces, pockets, and seams.
4. Spot-clean any stains on the lining by dabbing with a cleaning cloth and mild laundry detergent. (Remember to spot test first.)
5. If the interior contains an odor, sprinkle baking soda liberally, let sit for a few hours, then vacuum it out.
6. Make sure that everything is completely dry before storing or packing your suitcase.

How to Clean Hardcase Luggage Exteriors 

The hardcase exterior of your luggage sees a lot of action and can get visibly scuffed quickly. "Hard-shell suitcases will naturally pick up signs of wear, turning each one into a record of your travels," says Choi. "Over time, those marks become part of the story, and proof of a well-traveled companion."

While some scuffs might become permanent travel memories you can proudly wear on your suitcase, others can be buffed away with the following method.

1. Wipe the shell with warm, soapy water and a microfiber cloth. (Avoid abrasive sponges that can scratch the surface.)
2. For stubborn marks and scuffs, use a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, performing a spot test first. 
3. Towel or air dry the exterior of your suitcase before storing.

How to Clean Soft-Sided Luggage Exteriors

Softshell and soft-sided exteriors require different treatment from hardshell exteriors. Follow these simple steps to clean your soft-sided suitcase

1. Vacuum loose dirt and dust from the exterior.
2. Scrub the surface gently with a soft-bristled brush or cloth dipped in a mixture of water and mild dish soap.
3. Rinse off any soap residue with another clean, damp cloth.
4. Allow your suitcase exterior to air dry completely out of direct sunlight, says Choi.