For frequent travelers, suitcases or trolley bags are essential items.
However, no matter how careful you are, the suitcase is bound to get dusty during your journey.
Even the check-in process at the airport exposes the suitcase to various stickers and handling by multiple people. That's why it's important to prioritize the maintenance and cleaning of suitcases before the next trip.
Before cleaning, it's crucial to determine the material of the suitcase. Different materials require different cleaning agents and methods.
The material information is usually found on the suitcase tag or in the instructions. Some may even provide specific precautions, cleaning methods, and maintenance information.
Suitcases generally fall into two categories: hard cases and soft cases.
Hard cases are made of materials like ABS, PP, PC, and thermoplastic composites. They offer advantages such as durability, impact resistance, waterproofing, pressure resistance, and heat resistance, making them more suitable for long-distance travel.
Soft cases, on the other hand, are made of materials like nylon, canvas, and leather. They are lightweight and flexible but may not be as strong in terms of waterproofing, impact resistance, and pressure resistance. Soft cases are typically better suited for short-distance travel.
For cleaning, use a dry cloth with neutral detergent to wipe the surface of hard cases and remove stains. Then, use a soft cloth to dry the surface.
Soft cases can be cleaned by using a roller brush or a vacuum cleaner to remove dust. Alternatively, you can use a damp cloth with neutral detergent and gently scrub along the texture of the fabric surface, being careful not to damage the fibers.
If the suitcase is made of EVA material, it is better to brush off the dust from the surface and gently wipe stubborn dirt with a small amount of stain removal oil.
Cleaning the inside of the suitcase is relatively simple. Use a vacuum cleaner or water to clean it, and then let it dry naturally in the shade.
Frequently used suitcases may develop odors. To remove the odor, you can place a few pieces of orange peel inside the suitcase.
Additionally, after the trip, make sure to wipe off any sand, hair, or foreign objects tangled in the wheels with a semi-dry towel. It is also advisable to apply a little lubricant to the wheel axis for smooth rotation.
Check the tips for using suitcases:
1. Always keep the suitcase in an upright position and avoid placing heavy objects on top of it.
2. Avoid exposing the suitcases to high temperatures and direct sunlight to prevent deformation.
3. After use, open the lid and let the suitcase dry in a cool and ventilated place before storing it to prevent mold and odor.
4. Use a dust cover when the suitcase is not in use to prevent dust from accumulating on the surface.
5. Try to avoid walking on uneven surfaces to prevent damage to the wheels.