How to Maintain and Clean Your Suitcase for Long-Term Use

June 19 2025, by Carolina Batista, 7 min reading time

When you invest in a good suitcase, you want it to last. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or an occasional holidaymaker, taking proper care of your luggage can help extend its life and keep it looking fresh. Suitcases go through a lot—being tossed around by baggage handlers, dragged over uneven pavements, and squeezed into tight spaces. Regular maintenance can save you money, hassle, and potential travel disasters.

In this blog, we’ll break down simple, practical ways to keep your suitcase in top condition for years to come.

Clean After Each Trip

The first step in keeping your suitcase in great shape is to give it a quick clean after every trip. Dust, dirt, stains, and even odours can build up if you leave it sitting in a corner after use.

Wipe the exterior and interior with a damp cloth to remove surface dirt.
Empty all compartments and pockets to avoid crumbs or moisture being trapped.
Let the suitcase air out before storing to prevent musty smells.

This basic habit can go a long way in preserving your luggage’s look and functionality.

Wipe Hard Shells with Mild Soap

Hard shell suitcases are popular for their durability and sleek appearance, but they can easily show scuff marks and dirt.

Use warm water mixed with mild soap to gently wipe down the outer shell.
Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the surface or cause discolouration.
For stubborn marks, a soft sponge or cloth works best—never use abrasive materials.

Regular cleaning not only keeps your suitcase looking smart but also protects the shell from gradual wear.

Vacuum Soft Fabric Luggage

Soft fabric suitcases tend to collect dust, lint, and crumbs, especially in zipped compartments and crevices.

Use a handheld vacuum or nozzle attachment to clean fabric surfaces and inside pockets.
If the fabric is stained, spot clean with a mild fabric cleaner.
Allow the suitcase to dry completely to prevent mould or mildew.

Vacuuming keeps your luggage fresh and prevents dirt from becoming embedded over time.

Lubricate Zips Regularly

Zips are one of the most used parts of any suitcase, and they’re often the first to give out if neglected.

Apply a silicone-based lubricant or zip wax to keep zips running smoothly.
Check for debris stuck in the zip teeth and gently remove it.
Avoid forcing stuck zips as this can cause permanent damage.

Well-maintained zips mean you won’t find yourself struggling with stuck compartments at the airport.

Check Wheels for Damage

Suitcase wheels take a lot of abuse, especially when rolling over rough pavements or cobblestones.

Inspect wheels regularly for cracks, wobbling, or uneven wear.
Clean away any hair, string, or debris that might get tangled around the axles.
If a wheel is loose or damaged, it’s usually cheaper to replace it early rather than waiting for total failure.

Smooth, functioning wheels make a huge difference in travel comfort.

Store in a Cool, Dry Place

How you store your suitcase between trips plays a big role in its lifespan.

Avoid damp areas like basements or garages, as moisture can cause mould, rust, or fabric damage.
Store in a closet or cupboard with good air circulation.
Leave the zips slightly open to prevent musty smells.

Proper storage keeps your suitcase fresh and ready for your next adventure.

Avoid Overstuffing to Keep Shape

While it’s tempting to cram in that extra jumper or squeeze in a last-minute souvenir, overstuffing your suitcase can cause long-term damage.

Overloading puts strain on zips, handles, and seams.
It can cause the suitcase to lose its shape, especially for soft-sided bags.
Use packing cubes to maximise space without forcing the bag.

Keeping your packing reasonable will help your luggage maintain its structure and prevent burst seams.

Use Luggage Covers When Possible

Luggage covers are a simple but highly effective way to protect your suitcase from scratches, dirt, and moisture.

Invest in a fitted luggage cover, especially for hard shell cases.
Covers can be easily removed and washed after each trip.
They add a layer of protection during handling and transit.

Plus, luggage covers often come in bright, unique designs, making your bag easier to spot on the carousel.

Repair Scratches Early

Don’t wait for minor damage to become a major issue.

Small scratches on hard shells can be buffed out with a magic eraser or mild polish.
Tears in fabric can often be patched or sewn before they worsen.
Broken zip pullers, loose screws, and damaged handles should be fixed quickly to avoid bigger repairs later.

Catching problems early keeps your suitcase travel-ready and saves you the cost of buying a new one too soon.

Rotate Luggage to Spread Wear

If you have more than one suitcase, try not to rely on the same one every time you travel.

Rotating your luggage spreads out wear and tear, giving each suitcase a longer life.
Using the right-sized suitcase for each trip also reduces unnecessary strain.

This simple switch can make all your bags last longer.

Final Thoughts

Your suitcase is more than just a travel companion—it’s an investment. With a little care and regular maintenance, you can keep it rolling smoothly for years. Cleaning after each trip, checking for wear, storing it properly, and avoiding overstuffing are all easy habits that pay off.

By giving your luggage the attention it deserves, you’ll save money in the long run, avoid annoying travel mishaps, and always travel in style.

So before you tuck your suitcase away until your next holiday, take a few minutes to clean, check, and store it properly—it’s a small effort that makes a big difference.