Travelling with a hard shell suitcase offers durability and protection, but over time, these suitcases can accumulate dirt, scuffs, and germs, diminishing their appearance and compromising their longevity.
By regularly cleaning and maintaining your hard shell suitcase, you can preserve its pristine appearance, extend its lifespan, and ensure it remains a reliable travel companion. A simple routine can keep your suitcase looking as good as new, ready for any adventure.
Essential Supplies For Cleaning Luggage
Before you start the cleaning process, it's essential to have the right tools on hand. Here’s a list of the basic materials you'll need to effectively clean your hard shell suitcase:
- Mild soap or detergent for interior and exterior
- Soft cloths or sponges to wipe surfaces down without making additional scratches
- Soft-bristled brush for stubborn dirt or stains
- Lukewarm water for diluting soap and rinsing surfaces
- Disinfectant wipes or spray to sanitise the suitcase and help eliminate bacteria and germs picked up during your travels
- Microfiber cloths for giving it a final polish
Having these supplies ready will make the cleaning process smooth and efficient, ensuring that your suitcase is thoroughly cleaned and well-maintained.
Pre-Cleaning: Inspect and Prepare
Start by completely emptying your suitcase, making sure to check all pockets and compartments. A lot of luggage often comes with additional pockets, like suitcases with laptop compartments, so be sure to check every nook and cranny.
Look for any damage or stains that may need special attention during cleaning. If your suitcase has detachable parts like wheels or straps, remove them to clean those areas more thoroughly.
Cleaning The Outside Of A Hard Suitcase
Your hard shell suitcase’s exterior is the first line of defense against the elements, so keeping it clean is essential for maintaining its durability and appearance. Here’s how to do it:
Basic Cleaning
Begin by preparing a solution of mild soap or detergent mixed with lukewarm water. Dampen a soft cloth or sponge in this solution and gently wipe down the entire surface of the suitcase.
Focus on removing any surface dirt, dust, or light stains. Work in sections to ensure you don’t miss any areas, and be particularly thorough around the edges and seams, where dirt can accumulate more easily.
After wiping down, use a clean, damp cloth to rinse off any soap residue, leaving the surface clean and ready for further treatment.
Addressing Stubborn Stains
For those tougher stains, scuffs, and scratches that basic cleaning doesn’t remove, you’ll need to employ a bit more effort. Use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the affected areas. Be careful not to use excessive force, as this could damage the surface or finish of the suitcase.
It can be easy to scuff your suitcase over the years, particularly with carry-on luggage when taking it in and out of the cabin stow. For scuff marks, a small amount of baking soda mixed with water can be effective—apply the paste to the scuff, gently scrub, and then wipe away with a damp cloth.
If the stains are particularly stubborn, consider using a specialised cleaner designed for the material of your suitcase, following the product instructions carefully.
Polishing and Shining
Once the exterior is clean and free of stains, it’s time to give your suitcase a polished finish. Use a microfiber cloth to buff the surface, which will help remove any remaining smudges and restore its shine.
For an extra touch, you can apply a specialized cleaner or polish designed for hard-shell suitcases. These products not only enhance the appearance but can also provide an additional layer of protection against future stains and scratches.
Apply the polish according to the manufacturer’s instructions, then buff with a clean microfiber cloth to achieve a high-gloss finish. This final step will leave your suitcase looking as good as new and ready for your next journey.
Cleaning the Interior
While the exterior of your hard shell suitcase protects against external elements, the interior is where your belongings reside, making it crucial to keep this area clean, fresh, and free of contaminants. Here’s how to ensure the inside of your suitcase is as well-maintained as the outside.
Vacuuming
Begin by thoroughly vacuuming the interior of the suitcase to remove any loose debris, dust, or dirt. Use a vacuum cleaner with a nozzle attachment to get into all the corners, pockets, and crevices where dirt tends to accumulate.
Pay special attention to the seams and lining, where crumbs, lint, or small particles can often be trapped. Vacuuming not only helps in cleaning but also prepares the interior for more detailed spot cleaning and disinfecting.
Spot Cleaning
After vacuuming, inspect the interior for any stains, spills, or marks that need special attention. Use a gentle, fabric-safe cleaner to treat these areas.
Dampen a soft cloth or sponge with the cleaner and carefully blot the stains, avoiding excessive moisture that could soak through and damage the lining or underlying structure. If the stain is persistent, allow the cleaner to sit for a few minutes before blotting again.
Be cautious with the amount of liquid used to avoid leaving behind damp spots that could lead to mould or mildew.
Disinfecting
Once the stains are removed, it's important to disinfect the interior to eliminate any bacteria, germs, or lingering odours that might have been picked up during your travels. Use disinfectant wipes or a spray that is safe for fabric interiors.
Wipe down all surfaces, including the main compartment, pockets, and any fabric dividers. This step is crucial for maintaining a hygienic environment, especially if the suitcase has been used to transport items like dirty clothes, shoes, or food.
After disinfecting, leave the suitcase open for a while to allow it to air out and ensure it’s completely dry before storing or using it again.
Cleaning and Maintaining Wheels and Handles
The wheels and handles of your hard shell suitcase endure the most wear and tear during travel, often coming into contact with dirt, grime, and rough surfaces. Regular maintenance of these components is essential for ensuring smooth mobility and longevity.
Cleaning the Wheels
Over time, the wheels of your suitcase can accumulate dirt, dust, and debris, which can hinder their performance. Start by using a soft brush or cloth to remove loose dirt from the wheel surfaces and the area around them. For more stubborn dirt, you can use a damp cloth with mild soap to clean the wheels thoroughly.
Rotate the wheels as you clean to ensure that all sides are reached. If the wheels are detachable, consider removing them for a deeper clean.
Cleaning the Handles and Zippers
The handles and zippers are high-touch areas that can easily pick up dirt, oils from your hands, and bacteria. To clean the handles, wipe them down with a disinfectant wipe or a cloth dampened with a mild cleaning solution.
Pay extra attention to telescopic handles, as dust and grime can accumulate in the grooves. Extend the handle fully to clean the entire length, including the joints.
For the zippers, use a soft brush or a dry cloth to remove any dirt or debris lodged in the teeth. If the zipper is sticking, you can apply a small amount of zipper lubricant or even rub a bar of soap along the zipper teeth to make it glide more smoothly.
After cleaning, use a disinfectant wipe on the zipper pull and surrounding fabric to eliminate any bacteria.
Tips for Storing the Suitcase
To maintain the shape and condition of your suitcase, store it in an upright position in a cool, dry place. Avoid stacking heavy items on top of it, as this can cause deformation, especially with lightweight polycarbonate or ABS suitcases.
If possible, keep the suitcase slightly open or place a small, breathable item inside to ensure air circulation and prevent any musty odours from developing. For long-term storage, consider using a dust cover or bag to protect it from dust and scratches.
