- About the Author -
Dr. Dickson W. is a renowned, Atlanta-based research scientist with a passion for public health safety and travel. As the founder of Loomis Travel, he has created a line of stylish, chemically-safe travel luggage featured at the end of this article.
As a scientist and frequent traveler, I place a high priority on keeping my luggage clean and well-maintained. Although I don't consider myself a germaphobe (I deal with them daily in the lab), the idea of microbes gathering on the surface of my luggage and proliferating during storage is unappealing. Over the years, I have developed simple yet effective processes for cleaning my luggage after every trip, ensuring it remains fresh, hygienic, and ready for the next adventure
In this blog post, I'll share my personal experience and tried-and-true methods for effectively cleaning both soft-side and hard-side luggage without causing any damage. Whether you're dealing with stubborn stains, or unpleasant odors, or simply want to maintain a clean travel luggage, these step-by-step cleaning tips will be of great help.
CLEANING SOFTSIDE LUGGAGE AFTER TRAVEL
Preparing to Clean Soft Luggage
- Empty the luggage, including any pockets or compartments.
- Vacuum the interior using the upholstery attachment to remove loose dirt, crumbs, or debris.
Spot Cleaning Soft Luggage
- For spot cleaning, use a mild detergent or shampoo diluted with water.
- Gently scrub the affected areas with a soft-bristled brush or a damp microfiber cloth.
- For tougher stains, consider using a stain remover or a degreaser, always test it on an inconspicuous area first.
Deep Cleaning Soft Luggage
- For a deep clean, mix a solution of warm water and a mild detergent or fabric cleaner.
- Using a soft-bristled brush or a clean cloth, gently scrub the entire exterior and interior of the luggage with the cleaning solution.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue.
Cleaning Luggage Wheels and Handles
- Use a small brush or old toothbrush to remove dirt and grime from the wheels
- Wipe down the handle with a disinfectant wipe or mild soap and water
- Lubricate the wheels and handle mechanism with a silicone-based lubricant
Drying Soft Luggage
- After cleaning, allow the luggage to air dry completely before storing it.
- Stuff the interior with clean towels to help absorb moisture and maintain shape.
- Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources, as they can cause fading or damage to the fabric.
- Consider nesting the carryon inside your checked bag to save on storage space
Deodorizing Soft Luggage
- If your soft luggage has acquired unpleasant odors, sprinkle baking soda inside and let it sit for several hours or overnight.
- Vacuum out the baking soda to remove any lingering odors.
- For stubborn odors, you can use an enzyme-based cleaner or odor eliminator specifically designed for fabrics.
Protecting Soft Luggage
- Once dry, you can apply a fabric protector like Scotchgard to repel future stains and spills.
- Spray or wipe the protector onto the exterior and interior surfaces, following the product instructions.
- Allow the protector to dry completely before using or storing the luggage.
- Consider using a luggage cover or storage bag for added protection
CLEANING HARDSIDE LUGGAGE AFTER TRAVEL
Spot Cleaning Hardside Luggage
- Use a soft cloth or sponge dampened with mild soap and water
- Gently wipe away any dirt, stains, or spills on the luggage surface
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners since these an damage hardside materials like polycarbonate
Removing Stubborn Stains
- For tough stains, make a paste with baking soda and water
- Gently rub the paste onto the stained area using a soft-bristled brush
- Let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it clean with a damp cloth
Cleaning Luggage Wheels and Handles
- Use a small brush or old toothbrush to remove dirt and grime from the wheels
- Wipe down the telescoping handle with a disinfectant wipe or mild soap and water
- Lubricate the wheels and handle mechanism with a silicone-based lubricant
Drying Luggage After Cleaning
- Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe away any remaining moisture
- Allow the luggage to air dry completely before storing or using it again
- Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources, as they can cause discoloration or warping
Deodorizing Hardside Luggage
- Sprinkle baking soda inside the luggage and let it sit overnight
- Vacuum out the baking soda the next day
- Use a luggage deodorizer spray or place dryer sheets inside for a fresh scent
Storing Hardside Luggage Properly
- Store luggage in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
- Avoid stacking heavy items on top of hardside luggage to prevent dents or cracks
- Consider using a luggage cover or storage bag for added protection
Softside luggage offers the advantages of being lightweight and more flexible, making it easier to fit into tight spaces or overhead bins. Loomis Travel offers some of the most stylish and durable softside luggage options in the market, combining fashion-forward designs with high-quality materials for long-lasting performance.
Tips for keeping your luggage clean during travel
Keeping your suitcase clean during travel is essential to maintain its longevity and to ensure your belongings stay clean. Here are some tips to prevent your suitcase from getting dirty:
- Use luggage covers: A cover can shield your suitcase from dirt, dust, and scratches during transit.
- Pack items in sealed bags: Store your clothes and other items in sealed plastic bags or packing cubes to prevent spills and leaks from making a mess of your suitcase interior.
- Clean items before packing: Ensure that items like shoes or outdoor gear are clean and dry before placing them in your suitcase to avoid transferring dirt and debris.
- Choose darker-colored suitcases: Opt for a suitcase in a darker color or pattern that is less likely to show stains or dirt marks.
- Avoid placing the suitcase on the ground: This will minimize contact with dirt and germs.
- Wipe down your suitcase: Give your suitcase a quick wipe down with a damp cloth before and after your trip to remove any surface dirt or stains.
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