7 Luggage Care Tips to Keep Your Suitcase in Top Condition

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7 Luggage Care Tips to Keep Your Suitcase in Top Condition

Do you love traveling or often go on trips? If so, you probably have a favorite suitcase you rely on. To keep your suitcase durable, strong, and looking great on every journey, it’s important to know the right luggage care tips. This is especially true if you own a hardcase suitcase, which requires extra attention to prevent damage. Let’s check out these essential tips together!

How to care for and clean
your luggage so it lasts longer

Here are some luggage care tips you should definitely try
to keep your suitcase in great condition:

Wipe the Surface Regularly with a Damp Cloth

After every trip, don’t store your suitcase without cleaning it first. Wipe the surface using a damp cloth to remove dust, dirt, or splashes of water. This step is especially important for hardcase suitcases — it helps maintain their shine and keeps them stain-free. Learning how to clean a luggage properly like this will also prevent dullness or yellowing over time.

Use the right cleaner based on the material

Every suitcase is made from different materials, so it’s crucial to use the right cleaning product. For hardcase suitcases, use a mild cleaner or liquid soap mixed with warm water. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the finish. If you’re dealing with fabric suitcases, use a small vacuum to clean both the inside and outside. This method is also helpful when figuring out how to clean an old suitcases without causing further wear.

Dry the suitcase completely before storing

After cleaning, always make sure your suitcase is completely dry before putting it away. Storing a damp suitcase can cause mold, musty odors, or stubborn stains. Open all the zippers and leave it in a dry room for a few hours. If you store a wet suitcase, it could lead to rusty zippers or stuck compartments.

Store the suitcase in a cool, dry place

Choosing the right way to store luggage is just as important as cleaning it. Try to keep your suitcase in a cool, dry area, away from direct sunlight. Avoid placing it in damp areas like basements or bathrooms, as this can lead to damage. For safe luggage storage at home, place your suitcase in a dedicated closet or under the bed, using a protective plastic cover or cloth.
Avoid storing your suitcase in tightly sealed plastic or closed cardboard boxes, as this can trap moisture and damage the suitcase material. It's better to use a dustbag or a plastic cover simply as an outer layer (without wrapping it tightly or sealing it airtight).

Use a luggage cover when traveling

Another great luggage care tip is to use a luggage cover when traveling. It helps protect your suitcase from scratches, bumps, and water splashes. Choose a thick plastic cover or a stretchy fabric one that’s easy to put on and remove.

Check and maintain the wheels and handles

The wheels and handles are the most frequently used parts of any suitcase, so inspect them regularly. Make sure the wheels turn smoothly and are free from dirt. Clean them with a small brush or a damp cloth. Hair often gets tangled around the wheel axles, causing them to jam—you can clean it off using a small pair of scissors or a cutter to remove the strands. Also, check the handles to see if they are secure or loose. Without regular maintenance, your suitcase might break when you need it the most.

Avoid overloading your suitcase

Sometimes, in the name of convenience, people tend to overpack their suitcases. However, overloading your suitcase can damage the zippers, loosen the handles, or wear down the wheels faster. Check your suitcase’s maximum capacity and pack accordingly. If needed, bring an additional bag to balance the load.

Recommended Hardcase Suitcases

If you’re looking for a stylish, lightweight, and durable hardcase suitcase, I highly recommend checking out the American Tourister luggage collection. Not only do they offer excellent quality, but the designs are also super trendy!

Maxivo Spinner is a Red Dot Design Award-winning suitcase with the PlentiVol™ 20:80 packing system, antimicrobial lining and accessories, and security and convenience features like the Duosaf™ zip and StePause™ wheel stopper.

Argyle Spinner, elegantly designed with a unique texture and TSA security.

Gemina Pro Spinner is a modern-style cabin suitcase featuring shock-absorbing wheels, an antimicrobial interior lining, as well as USB ports and a side hook for maximum travel convenience.

Frontec Spinner featuring a modern look and Duosaf™ Security Zipper.

Curio Spinner with its unique spiral pattern and vibrant colors.