Suitcases can get pretty dirty very quickly - dust and mud from sidewalks, dirt from airport conveyor belts or just dust that builds up when you don't use them for a while. Most stains can be removed quickly with soap and water, but for a thorough cleaning you need to use the right method based on the type of suitcase you have.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Clean the Interior
Step 1. Remove everything from the suitcase
Make sure it is completely empty before starting; check that there are no objects left in the pockets and dividers.
Step 2. Remove any loose cover or case
Some suitcases have additional "pockets" and spaces that can be completely removed from the rest of the package; if present, remove them and set them aside.
Step 3. Use the vacuum cleaner to clean the inside
Turn on the appliance to eliminate dust, dirt, crumbs and any other small residue present; you can use a manual one or a standard one with a tube. Make sure you don't overlook any pockets or linings.
Step 4. Wash the removable parts
If the manufacturer's label says you can safely put them in the washing machine, follow the instructions. If, on the other hand, there is no maintenance instruction or you are advised to proceed with a hand wash, fill the sink with hot water and add a small amount of neutral laundry detergent. Clean the removable parts by hand and let them air dry.
Step 5. Wash the synthetic coatings with water and detergent
Nylon and other lining materials can be washed gently with a damp cloth and mild laundry detergent. If the outside of the suitcase is leather, be very careful not to drop any drops of water, otherwise you could damage it.
Step 6. Eliminate localized stains on canvas and linen coverings
Scrub them with a mixture of water and baking soda, using an old toothbrush. at the end, dry immediately with a hairdryer.
Step 7. Scrub the hard plastic liners
This material can be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap; when finished, immediately dry the suitcase with a clean rag to prevent water stains from forming.
Step 8. Put the removable components back
Once the suitcase and all accessories are dry, you can put them back in their place.
Step 9. Leave the suitcase to air dry
If you plan not to clean the outside or plan to wait before proceeding, leave the suitcase exposed and open for at least a day; in this way, you prevent bad odors or mold from accumulating due to residual humidity. When you are ready to clean it on the outside, you can close it.
Part 2 of 3: Cleaning the Exterior
Step 1. Remove dust and dirt from the outside of the suitcase
To do this, use a small broom or laundry brush. If you have a large bag made of soft material, it may be more effective to use a handheld vacuum cleaner or a standard vacuum cleaner with a hose. If the suitcase is not leather and is covered with animal hair, lint or other material that is difficult to detach, use a lint-free adhesive roll.
Step 2. Clean your skin with a specific cleanser
Proceed by applying a leather conditioner and allow it to air dry out of direct sunlight. If there are a lot of stains, take the suitcase to a company that specializes in cleaning leather.
Step 3. Clean the stains on canvas and linen
Just like you did for the inside of the suitcase - cleaning the stains with water and baking soda - again use an old toothbrush to remove stains and dirt; when finished, dry immediately with a hairdryer.
Step 4. Clean a soft plastic bag with detergent and water
Proceed gently with a damp cloth dipped in neutral laundry detergent and then allow to air dry.
Step 5. Clean the hard plastic
You can proceed with a damp cloth and a mild soap; immediately dry the external covering with a clean cloth to avoid water stains; if there are any marks or imperfections, rub with the magic eraser.
Step 6. Clean an aluminum case with water
Some detergents can leave streaks or marks on metal surfaces, so it is recommended to proceed only with hot water; if there are stubborn stains or marks, use the magic eraser. When finished, wipe dry immediately with a clean cloth to prevent water stains from remaining.
Step 7. Clean the wheels, hinges, latch and other accessories
Wash them with warm soapy water and a washcloth. Remember to turn the wheels to remove dirt, mud and other debris from all over their surfaces; once cleaning is complete, dry immediately to prevent possible water damage. If the metal accessories have scratches, scrub them with a steel wool scourer.
Step 8. Leave the suitcase in the air
Once completely clean, open it and expose it to the air for at least a day to dry; be sure to open any pockets or other dividers as well.
Part 3 of 3: Protect the Suitcase
Step 1. Apply a spray that protects the material
If the suitcase is made of fabric, you can prevent it from getting stained or damaged even more by applying a special product; be sure to read the instructions carefully, as these substances could damage some materials, such as leather.
Step 2. Treat the metal accessories with lacquer
You can protect them from scratches by using a specific metal lacquer or clear nail polish.
Step 3. Spray an air freshener
Fabric suitcases that have a strong odor due to some product spill inside them or that have not been used for a long time can smell a lot. However, you can avoid this problem by spreading a liquid air freshener such as Febreze; but be careful not to spray it directly on the leather!
Step 4. Put a solid air freshener inside the suitcase
Before storing it in some closet, put one of these products inside to prevent a musty smell from developing. You can use a commercial one, a dryer sheet softener, soap residue you no longer use, cedar shavings, or other similar products.
Step 5. Find a safe place to store your suitcase
Often it spoils when it is not stored properly; carefully check that in the chosen place there are no water leaks, mold, odors or humidity, otherwise choose another place.
Step 6. Prevent possible damage
Avoid placing heavy objects on it, as it may deform over time; if the suitcase is made of leather, aluminum or hard plastic, wrap it in a cloth to avoid scratches and scuffs.
