Our suitcases go with us everywhere, from weekend getaways to international adventures. Over time, they can get dirty, scuffed, or even develop unpleasant odors. Keeping your luggage clean not only improves its lifespan but also makes traveling a more pleasant experience. Here’s a complete guide to cleaning your suitcase inside and out, with tips to keep it looking fresh and well-maintained.
What You’ll Need
You can shop all my favorite cleaning tools and supplies here: 👇Amazon Shop
Start With the Inside
Cleaning your suitcase begins with the interior. The first step is to shake out any loose dirt, crumbs, or hair. If possible, take it outside and give it a good shake, or use a vacuum to remove debris. This helps remove the first layer of dirt and makes the rest of the cleaning process easier.
Once the inside is free of loose debris, you can move on to washing the lining. A simple solution of a few drops of dish soap mixed with water in a spray bottle works wonders. Lightly mist the interior and wipe it down with a damp microfiber towel. Pay special attention to areas that tend to get the dirtiest, like corners where shoes or toiletry bags sit.
To keep your suitcase fresh and hygienic, consider using a disinfecting spray suitable for fabrics. Spraying the interior occasionally helps eliminate bacteria and odors without damaging your luggage or leaving unwanted fragrances. Always allow the inside to dry completely before closing it or putting it in storage.
Tackle Exterior Scuffs
Over time, your suitcase may develop scuffs from handling, transport, and travel wear. One of the best tools for removing these marks is a melamine sponge, often included with new suitcases. Brands like Scrub Daddy offer durable options that work well for scuff removal. These sponges act like ultra-fine sandpaper, lifting surface marks without damaging the suitcase, though it’s important not to scrub too aggressively.
For heavily soiled luggage, you can start with a drill brush or scrubber to remove stubborn grime before using the melamine sponge. The more often you clean, the easier it becomes to maintain. Keep in mind, however, that deep gouges or heavy wear cannot be fully restored, so prevention and regular upkeep are key.
Clean the Wheels
Don’t forget your suitcase wheels, they travel everywhere your bag goes and collect dirt quickly. Cleaning them is simple: wipe them down with a damp towel sprayed with your soap mixture, then roll the suitcase back and forth. This ensures all parts of the wheels are cleaned thoroughly. Finish by wiping them dry and, if desired, spraying a disinfecting solution to remove lingering germs. Clean wheels make rolling smoother and reduce dirt transfer to other surfaces.
Regular Maintenance
The key to keeping your suitcase looking great is consistency. You don’t need to deep clean after every trip, but periodic care ensures your luggage stays fresh, functional, and visually appealing. Simple practices like shaking out debris, wiping down the interior, removing scuffs, and cleaning the wheels will make traveling a more pleasant experience and extend the life of your suitcase.
