Every traveller knows the drill: after a long journey by plane, train or car, your suitcase often shows signs of wear and tear. It’s collected dust, got wet in the rain or has dirt on the wheels from all that rolling. And let’s not forget the stains on the inside, which can be caused by spilled liquids or cosmetics. We’ll show you the right tips on how to clean your suitcase so that you can enjoy your travel companion for years to come.

Why is it important to clean a suitcase?

Regular maintenance of our luggage is often overlooked, even though a clean suitcase contributes significantly to the travel experience. After all, whilst travelling, our luggage is exposed to countless factors – from dust and dirt to changing weather conditions and bacteria in various environments. 

A clean suitcase not only reflects the owner’s care, but also has direct practical benefits. A well-maintained exterior and a fresh interior extend the lifespan of the suitcase and also ensure hygienic storage of our clothes and valuables. An important side effect is that this also reduces the risk of pollutants or allergens settling on our belongings. 

A well-maintained suitcase therefore conveys a pleasant sense of order and preparedness – and who wouldn’t want to set off on a new adventure feeling confident?

Cleaning your suitcase: tips for a thorough clean

Would you like to give your suitcase a thorough clean whilst keeping it smelling fresh for longer? This will make packing a pleasure and you’ll be ready for your next trip: 

1. Cleaning the outside of your suitcase: consider the material

When cleaning the outside of your suitcase, it’s crucial to take the material into account. Different materials require different cleaning methods to ensure the suitcase is cleaned effectively without damaging the material.

How to clean a hard-shell suitcase properly

A damp cloth with a mild detergent is all you need. Specialised plastic cleaners can help with stubborn stains.

How to clean soft-sided luggage properly

You should use a damp cloth and a soft brush, combined with lukewarm water and soap, to clean it. 

2. Cleaning the inside of your suitcase properly

• Vacuuming: Before you start wet cleaning, you should vacuum the interior. This allows you to remove coarse dirt such as crumbs straight away. Make sure the vacuum cleaner has a brush attachment. This makes it easy to remove even dried-on dirt. 
• Removing stains: A mixture of water and mild detergent can work wonders. Simply soak a cloth in the mixture and gently rub the stains away.
• Removing odours: Leaving a small bag of bicarbonate of soda in your suitcase overnight can help neutralise unpleasant odours. Coffee is also a real miracle cure for neutralising odours.

As a general rule for cleaning the inside: your suitcase should be well aired afterwards and only closed again once it is completely dry.

3. Don’t forget the wheels and handles

• Wheels: Sand and dirt can block the wheels. An old toothbrush is perfect for cleaning them.
• Handles: A disinfectant wipe can both remove dirt and combat bacteria here.

4. Regular maintenance for longevity

For light to moderate soiling, all travelite products can be easily wiped down regularly, both inside and out, using a clean cloth and lukewarm soapy water (e.g. diluted with washing-up liquid). Alternatively, a vinegar-based cleaner is also suitable. It’s perfect for neutralising odours when cleaning your suitcase.

Suitcases that are cleaned and looked after regularly not only show less wear and tear but also remain in good working order. We recommend giving your suitcase a quick clean after every trip – this not only saves you a lot of time before your next journey, but may also spare you any nasty surprises. 

Additional tips for cleaning your luggage

Cleaning your rucksack

Cleaning your rucksack is just as important as looking after your suitcase, because after all, it accompanies you on many adventures and journeys. A clean rucksack not only looks better, but also ensures that it lasts longer and remains hygienic. One of the most effective ways to clean your rucksack is to use your washing machine on the wool and delicates cycle*. Here are some additional tips to help you look after your rucksack in the best possible way:

*Please do not machine wash products from the Venture Line range

1. Preparation: Before you put your rucksack in the washing machine, make sure it’s actually suitable for machine washing. Then remove all loose items and protect delicate parts such as buckles and zips by stowing them in a linen bag, a laundry net or a pillowcase. This prevents damage during the wash cycle.
2. Removing dirt and stains: First, brush any coarse dirt and dust off your rucksack. For stubborn stains, you can use a gentle cleaning solution made up of water and mild detergent. Dab the stains gently without rubbing, so as not to damage the material.
3. Preparing the washing machine: Make sure your washing machine is clean to prevent contamination. Use a wool or delicate cycle with cold or lukewarm water and a gentle detergent. Avoid using bleach or harsh cleaning products, as these can damage the material of your rucksack.
4. Drying: After washing, your rucksack should be left to air-dry. Do not hang it in direct sunlight or near a heater, as this can dry out, fade and damage the material. Leave your rucksack to dry in a well-ventilated place until it is completely dry.
5. Aftercare: Once your rucksack has dried, you can treat it with a waterproofing spray to protect it from future stains and moisture. Make sure to choose a spray that’s suitable for your rucksack’s specific material.

Cleaning your bags

Bags are also indispensable companions in everyday life, whether it’s a weekend bag, a carry-on bag or a travel bag. They’re constantly in use and, over time, accumulate dust, dirt and stains. Proper cleaning and care of your bags is therefore essential to extend their lifespan and keep them in the best possible condition. Here are some additional tips on how to clean your bags effectively:

1. Preparation: First, remove all items from your bag. Empty all the pockets and gently shake out the bag to remove any loose dirt.
2. Exterior cleaning: Use a soft cloth or sponge lightly dampened with warm soapy water to clean the outer surfaces of your bag. Take care not to use the cleaning solution too vigorously to avoid damaging the material. Gently wiping the surface should be sufficient to remove dust and surface dirt.
3. Stain removal: If your bag has stains caused by liquids or spills, you can use a stain remover that is suitable for the material of your bag. However, test the stain remover on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t cause any colour changes or damage.
4. Cleaning the inside: The inside of your bag should also be cleaned, especially if it’s used as a handbag for everyday use. Shake the bag out again and vacuum it to remove dirt and crumbs. A damp cloth with a mild detergent can be used to treat any stains on the inside.
5. Trocknen: After cleaning, allow your bag to dry completely before using it again. Do not expose it to direct sunlight or heat, as this can damage the material. Instead, hang it up in a well-ventilated place or lay it flat on a clean towel.

Conclusion: Travelling is better with a clean suitcase

A clean suitcase makes all the difference. By cleaning it regularly, you not only protect your travel companion from wear and tear, but also ensure that your clothes and kit are stored cleanly and hygienically. It may seem like a small step, but a clean suitcase gives you that satisfying feeling of being well prepared and adds an important touch of comfort to your travels. So take the time to look after your suitcase. We hope you have a great time on your travels!