Have you ever thought about what's living on the surface of your suitcase after a long journey? According to InsureandGo's bacterial study, the average piece of luggage harbours around 80 million bacteria, with suitcases carrying up to 58 times more bacteria than a public toilet seat. How to clean luggage properly isn't just about keeping it looking sharp. It's about protecting your health and making sure your investment lasts. Whether you own hard shell cases, aluminium suitcases, or fabric bags, good luggage care starts with knowing the right techniques for each material.
Why Luggage Care Matters More Than You Think
Your suitcase picks up grime from airport floors, conveyor belts, hotel rooms, and taxi boots every time you travel. The wheels and base are the worst offenders, harbouring hundreds of bacterial colonies that you then bring straight into your home.
Regular cleaning also extends the life of your luggage. Dirt buildup wears down zippers, corrodes metal components, and weakens fabric over time. A few minutes of care after each trip saves you from replacing your suitcase far sooner than necessary.
How to Clean Hard Shell Luggage Step by Step
How to clean hard shell luggage comes down to a gentle, thorough technique. Start by emptying all compartments completely and vacuuming with a brush attachment to remove particles from corners and pockets.
For the exterior, mix warm water with mild dish soap and wipe the entire surface using firm, circular motions with a soft cloth. Pay close attention to the wheels, handles, and any protruding components. Rinse away all soap residue with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly with a microfibre cloth to prevent water spots.
Never use abrasive sponges or harsh chemicals on your trolley bags or hard cases. You risk scratching the protective coating. For stubborn scuff marks, a slightly dampened melamine sponge works well, but test on a hidden area first.
Cleaning Aluminium Cases
Aluminium luggage needs extra attention. Avoid hot water, which can cause discolouration or warping. Stick to lukewarm water mixed with mild soap, and always wash the entire surface rather than spot-cleaning to prevent dark patches in the finish. Rinse thoroughly and dry immediately with a clean cloth to stop oxidation before it starts. Can you put luggage in a washing machine? Never. The agitation damages wheels, frames, and internal components regardless of material.
How to Clean Soft Luggage and Fabric Suitcases
Soft luggage requires a different approach. Empty everything, vacuum thoroughly, and shake the bag vigorously to dislodge trapped particles.
Mix warm water with mild laundry detergent and gently scrub the exterior with a soft brush in circular motions. For stubborn stains, a soft-bristled toothbrush with fabric stain remover does the job. Wipe away all soap residue with a clean, damp cloth and air dry completely in shade. Direct sunlight accelerates fabric fading, so keep your bags and backpacks out of harsh light during drying.
How to Clean Luggage Interior and Remove Odours
The lining inside your suitcase collects dust, crumbs, and bacteria just as quickly as the exterior. Vacuum every compartment using a crevice attachment, then wipe down all surfaces with a cloth dampened in warm water and mild detergent. Leave the suitcase open to air dry completely. Never close your luggage whilst damp, as trapped moisture creates the perfect environment for mould.
How do you remove mould from luggage? Mix equal parts white vinegar and water, apply to affected areas, scrub gently, and let it sit for an hour. Wipe clean and dry in sunlight, as UV rays help kill remaining spores.
For musty smells, sprinkle baking soda inside overnight, or place activated charcoal bags in the case for 24 hours. Keeping silica gel packets and dryer sheets inside during storage prevents odours from developing between trips.
How to Store Luggage Properly Between Trips
Good luggage care doesn't stop after cleaning. Store your cases in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep zippers partially open for airflow, store hard shell luggage upright, and avoid stacking heavy items on top. Use breathable dust covers rather than plastic bags, and drop a silica gel packet inside your check-in cases and cabin luggage to absorb any lingering moisture.
How EUME Makes Luggage Care Easier
If you want luggage that's built for easy maintenance, our aluminium collection features smooth, non-porous surfaces that resist bacterial growth and clean effortlessly with mild soap and water. The scratch-resistant finish holds up after extensive travel, whilst sealed construction prevents moisture from seeping into crevices where mould thrives. From our trunk collection to our carry-on range, every piece is engineered to stay clean with minimal effort, so you spend less time scrubbing and more time planning your next trip.
A Clean Suitcase is a Long-Lasting Suitcase
Knowing how to clean luggage properly takes just a few minutes after each trip, but it adds years to your suitcase's life. Wipe down the exterior, disinfect the handles and wheels, vacuum the interior, and store it correctly. That simple routine keeps bacteria at bay and your luggage looking and performing like new.
Ready for luggage that's as easy to maintain as it is to travel with? Browse our full range at Eume World and find your perfect travel companion.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you clean hard-shell luggage?
Mix warm water with mild dish soap and wipe the exterior with a soft cloth using circular motions. Rinse away soap residue with a damp cloth, dry with a microfibre cloth, and never use abrasive sponges or harsh chemicals that could scratch the surface.
What is the best way to clean soft-sided luggage?
Scrub the fabric exterior gently with warm water and mild laundry detergent using a soft brush. Wipe away residue with a damp cloth and air dry completely in shade, as direct sunlight causes fading over time.
How often should I clean my luggage?
- Wipe down the exterior, wheels, and handles with disinfectant after every trip whilst grime is still fresh
- Deep clean both interior and exterior surfaces quarterly, and inspect zippers, wheels, and handles for wear during each session
How do you remove tough stains from a suitcase?
- For hard shell cases, a dampened melamine sponge gently buffed over scuffs usually removes them (test on a hidden area first)
- For fabric luggage, apply a fabric stain remover or baking soda paste, let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes, then scrub gently with a soft-bristled brush
How do you clean and maintain luggage wheels and handles?
Wipe wheels and handles with disinfectant wipes containing at least 60% alcohol after every trip. Remove hair and debris from wheels with tweezers regularly, and apply silicone spray occasionally to keep them rolling smoothly.
