How to clean hard side luggage?

Oct 22, 2025

Hey there, fellow travelers! As a supplier of Hard Side Luggage, I know how important it is to keep your luggage in top - notch condition. Not only does a clean suitcase look great, but it also extends its lifespan and ensures that your belongings stay safe during your trips. In this blog, I'll share some tips on how to clean hard - side luggage effectively.

Why Cleaning Your Hard - Side Luggage Matters

Before we dive into the cleaning process, let's talk about why it's so crucial. Over time, your hard - side luggage can accumulate dirt, grime, and stains from various sources. Whether it's from rolling on dirty airport floors, being exposed to the elements during outdoor adventures, or just general wear and tear, a dirty suitcase can be a real eyesore. Moreover, dirt and grime can potentially damage the surface of your luggage, leading to scratches and discoloration. By regularly cleaning your hard - side luggage, you can maintain its appearance and functionality, making it last for many trips to come.

Gathering Your Cleaning Supplies

First things first, you'll need to gather the right cleaning supplies. You don't need anything too fancy; most of these items can be found around your house. Here's what you'll need:

  • Mild soap or detergent: Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the hard - side material. A gentle dish soap or a specialized luggage cleaner will do the trick.
  • Soft - bristled brush or sponge: This is for scrubbing away stubborn dirt without scratching the surface.
  • Microfiber cloths: These are great for wiping down the luggage and drying it off.
  • Warm water: Fill a bucket or sink with warm water for the cleaning process.
  • Toothbrush: For getting into those hard - to - reach areas like the corners and zippers.

Step - by - Step Cleaning Process

1. Empty and Inspect Your Luggage

Start by emptying out all the contents of your luggage. Check every pocket and compartment to make sure you don't leave anything behind. Once it's empty, take a good look at your luggage for any signs of damage, such as cracks or loose parts. If you find any issues, it's best to address them before cleaning.

2. Remove Loose Dirt

Use a dry microfiber cloth or a soft brush to gently remove any loose dirt, dust, or debris from the surface of your luggage. Pay special attention to the wheels, handles, and corners, as these areas tend to collect more dirt.

3. Prepare the Cleaning Solution

In your bucket or sink, mix a small amount of mild soap or detergent with warm water. Stir the solution gently until it's well - mixed. You don't need a lot of soap; just enough to create a soapy solution.

4. Clean the Exterior

Dip your soft - bristled brush or sponge into the soapy water and start scrubbing the exterior of your luggage. Work in small sections, applying gentle pressure to remove dirt and stains. For stubborn stains, you can use a bit more elbow grease, but be careful not to scratch the surface. If you have a textured hard - side luggage, make sure to clean the grooves and ridges thoroughly.

When cleaning the wheels, use a toothbrush to get into the small crevices and remove any dirt that may be stuck. For the handles, wipe them down with a soapy sponge and then rinse them off.

5. Rinse the Exterior

Once you've scrubbed the entire exterior of your luggage, use a clean microfiber cloth soaked in clean water to rinse off the soap. Make sure to remove all the soap residue, as leaving it on can cause streaks and discoloration. You can also use a hose to rinse the luggage if you're doing the cleaning outdoors.

6. Clean the Interior

Don't forget about the inside of your luggage! Wipe down the interior with a soapy sponge or cloth. Pay attention to the lining and any pockets. If there are any stains inside, you can spot - clean them with a bit of extra soap. Rinse the interior with clean water and then dry it off with a microfiber cloth.

7. Dry Your Luggage

After rinsing, use a dry microfiber cloth to pat your luggage dry. Make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies. You can also leave your luggage open in a well - ventilated area to air dry completely. Avoid using a hair dryer or other heat sources, as this can damage the hard - side material.

Special Cleaning Tips for Different Types of Hard - Side Luggage

Polycarbonate Luggage

Polycarbonate is a popular material for hard - side luggage because it's lightweight and durable. To clean polycarbonate luggage, follow the steps above, but be extra gentle when scrubbing. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or tools that can scratch the surface. If you notice any small scratches, you can try using a plastic polish to buff them out.

ABS Luggage

ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) luggage is also common. It's a bit more rigid than polycarbonate. When cleaning ABS luggage, you can be a bit more firm with your scrubbing, but still use a soft - bristled brush. ABS can be prone to yellowing over time, especially if it's exposed to sunlight. To prevent this, store your ABS luggage in a cool, dark place when not in use.

Maintaining Your Cleaned Luggage

Once your luggage is clean and dry, there are a few things you can do to keep it looking great.

  • Store it properly: When you're not using your luggage, store it in a cool, dry place. Avoid stacking heavy items on top of it, as this can cause dents and damage.
  • Use a luggage cover: A luggage cover can protect your luggage from dirt, scratches, and the elements when you're traveling.
  • Regularly inspect and clean: Make it a habit to inspect your luggage before and after each trip. If you notice any dirt or stains, clean them up as soon as possible to prevent them from setting in.

Explore Our Hard - Side Luggage Range

If you're in the market for new hard - side luggage, we've got you covered. Check out our amazing collection of Travel Luggage with 360°Wheels, which offers smooth and easy maneuverability. Our Customizable Solid Color Luggage allows you to add a personal touch to your travels. And for those short trips, our Lightweight Cabin Trolley is the perfect choice.

Customizable Solid Color Luggage2(001)

If you're interested in purchasing our high - quality hard - side luggage in bulk or have any questions about our products, we'd love to hear from you. Reach out to us to start a procurement discussion and find the perfect luggage solutions for your needs.

References

  • "Luggage Care Guide" - General tips on luggage maintenance from industry experts.
  • "Materials Used in Hard - Side Luggage" - Information on different hard - side luggage materials and their care requirements.