Dust Off That Luggage Because You Are Taking A Summer Vacation!

So you have decided to take a Summer vacation and now you need to get your luggage out of storage (i.e. your attic, your closet, under your bed, etc.)   You're ready to pack but you discover your luggage is in desperate need of cleaning.  I found online some basic cleaning tips you can do to your luggage to revive it and bring back to life:

Step 1: Determine whether the suitcase is worth cleaning. If the suitcase isn't very dirty, don't bother cleaning it, or simply empty it and vacuum it off.  Often times just a simple vacuum is all it can take to revive a piece of luggage.

Step 2: When cleaning your luggage brush the surfaces, especially the fabric ones, with a dry brush or broom to loosen dust. Then, use the dusting or upholstery attachment on a vacuum cleaner to extract anything that is loose. Don't forget to vacuum inside all the little pockets on the interior and exterior of the suitcase. Remember to feel around first so you don't suck up any missing earrings or cuff links. Depending on how dirty your suitcase is, this may be good preparation for not making mud on subsequent steps. On the other hand, if removing the dust is enough, you're done.

Step 3: Test anything wet on a small area. Take a damp cloth and, if you like, a bit of soap or mild liquid cleaner, and try rubbing gently at a small, inconspicuous area on the outside of the suitcase. If the test is successful, wipe the rest of the bag, changing cleaning cloths as necessary. Follow up with a moist cloth to remove as much soap residue as possible.

    * For a leather suitcase or bag only, wipe the outsides with saddle soap or oil soap formulated for leather. Use these products according to package instructions. Avoid getting leather surfaces wet.
    * For a hard-sided suitcase, try a mild spray cleaner. Simply spray it on and wipe it off with a cloth. Follow up with a moist cloth to remove residue from the cleaner.

Try a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser or a mild abrasive such as Bon Ami or even toothpaste to remove bad scuffs on a hard-sided suitcase. Try a small area at first, to make sure you're not making matters worse. Follow up with a damp cloth to remove any residue.

Step 4: Let the suitcase dry before putting away or filling it in preparation for vacation

Step 5: Clean out the inside and spray with an odor-reducer such as Fabreeze then let the suitcase air out

Step 6: When you return from your vacation be sure to store your suitcase properly by storing it in a cool, dry place.  If you prefer you can put dryer sheets or an used bar of soap to help reduce any odor.  Another option is to put cedar chips or cedar balls inside your suitcase.  This will leave a great odor in your suitcase.

I hope these quick tips help as you prepare for your Summer vacation.  If you find our luggage is damaged and in need of repair please call Jamestown Shoe and Luggage Service in Altamonte Springs at 407-869-7757.  Happy travels!