Quick answer

Clean your Away luggage after every few trips using a soft cloth, mild soap, and lukewarm water. Wipe the shell, brush out zipper teeth, and remove debris from wheels. Avoid abrasive cleaners, soaking the interior, and harsh chemicals. Regular, gentle care keeps polycarbonate and aluminum luggage looking better and working longer.

Your Away luggage is built to take a beating, but a little routine care goes a long way. Dust, grit, and spills don't just look bad—they can wear down wheels, jam zippers, and dull the finish over time.

This guide walks you through a simple cleaning and maintenance routine you can do at home in 15–20 minutes. You'll learn how to clean a carry-on, how to care for polycarbonate luggage, and the small habits that prevent bigger problems on the road.

Gather the right supplies

Before you start, collect a few basic items: a soft microfiber cloth, a soft-bristled brush (an old toothbrush works), mild dish soap or a gentle all-purpose cleaner, lukewarm water, and a vacuum with a brush attachment. For aluminum and polycarbonate shells, avoid anything labeled abrasive, solvent-based, or containing bleach.

You don't need specialty luggage cleaners. The safest approach is the mildest one: a few drops of soap in a bowl of lukewarm water. Harsh chemicals can cloud finishes, dry out rubber seals, and leave residue that attracts more dirt.

  • Never use scouring pads, steel wool, or magic erasers on shell surfaces.
  • Test any new cleaner on a small hidden area first.

Clean the exterior shell

Dip your microfiber cloth in the soapy water and wring it out so it's damp, not dripping. Wipe the entire shell in gentle circles, starting at the top and working down. For scuffs on polycarbonate, a small amount of mild soap and a little extra rubbing usually lifts them without scratching.

Rinse the cloth with clean water and wipe again to remove soap residue. Dry with a separate soft towel. Don't let water sit in seams or around locks—moisture there can cause sticking over time.

  • For textured or pebbled finishes, use a soft brush to get into the grain.
  • Avoid spraying cleaner directly onto the shell; spray the cloth instead.

Care for zippers and expansion features

Zippers collect lint, sand, and tiny debris that can make them stiff. Use a dry soft brush to sweep along the teeth, then vacuum with a brush attachment on low suction. If a zipper feels rough, run a graphite pencil along the teeth—not oil or grease, which attracts dirt.

If your luggage has an expandable zipper, open it fully and clean the fabric gusset with a damp cloth. Let it air-dry completely before zipping it closed. Never force a stuck zipper; work the slider back and forth gently while brushing out debris.

  • Check zipper pulls for loose stitching or fraying before each trip.
  • A stuck zipper often means debris, not a broken zipper—clean first, then assess.

Maintain wheels and handles

Wheels are the hardest-working part of your luggage. Turn the bag upside down and use a brush or toothpick to remove hair, carpet fibers, and grit wrapped around the axles. Wipe the wheel housings with a damp cloth, then dry thoroughly. Spinning the wheels by hand helps you feel for wobbles or rough spots.

For handles, wipe down the grip and telescoping poles with a damp cloth. Avoid submerging the handle assembly. If the telescoping handle feels sticky, extend it fully and clean the poles with a dry cloth—don't lubricate them unless the manufacturer recommends it.

  • Never run water directly into wheel bearings; damp-wipe only.
  • If a wheel is cracked or wobbly, replace it rather than continuing to use it.

Clean the interior and freshen odors

Open the bag fully and vacuum the interior with a brush attachment. For stains, mix a tiny amount of mild soap with lukewarm water, dab with a cloth, and blot—don't rub. Let the interior air-dry completely with the bag open before storing it.

For odors, sprinkle baking soda on the lining, let it sit overnight, then vacuum it out. A dryer sheet tucked inside between trips can help, but remove it before packing to avoid residue on clothes.

  • Never machine-wash or soak the interior lining.
  • Store luggage open or slightly cracked to prevent musty smells.

Protect and store your luggage between trips

When you're not traveling, store your luggage in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. UV exposure can fade colors and degrade plastic over time. If you stack bags, put the heaviest on the bottom and place a cloth between them to prevent scuffs.

For extra protection, use a luggage cover or dust bag—especially for lighter colors and aluminum finishes. Before storing, make sure the bag is completely dry inside and out. A damp bag stored in a closet is an invitation for mildew.

  • Avoid storing luggage in humid basements or hot attics.
  • Empty all pockets and compartments before storage.

Your 7-step luggage care routine

  1. Step 1: Empty and inspect: Remove everything from all compartments. Check for stains, scuffs, and debris. Look at wheels, zippers, and handles for damage. Catch small issues before they become expensive repairs.
  2. Step 2: Vacuum loose dirt: Use a vacuum with a brush attachment on low suction to remove dust and grit from the interior, zipper tracks, and wheel areas. Skipping this step means you'll just grind dirt around when you wipe.
  3. Step 3: Wipe the exterior: Dampen a microfiber cloth with mild soap and lukewarm water. Wipe the shell in gentle circles, then rinse with a clean damp cloth and dry. Never use abrasive cleaners or soak the bag—damp-wipe only.
  4. Step 4: Clean zippers and expansion: Brush zipper teeth with a dry soft brush. Open expansion zippers fully and wipe the fabric gusset with a damp cloth. Air-dry completely. A clean zipper is a zipper that won't jam at the airport.
  5. Step 5: Maintain wheels and handles: Remove hair and grit from wheel axles with a toothpick or brush. Wipe wheels and handles with a damp cloth, then dry. Don't lubricate unless the manufacturer says so. Wobbly or cracked wheels should be replaced, not ignored.
  6. Step 6: Freshen the interior: Spot-clean stains with mild soap and a damp cloth. For odors, sprinkle baking soda, let sit overnight, then vacuum. Air-dry with the bag open. Never machine-wash or soak the lining—it can damage the structure.
  7. Step 7: Store smart: Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Use a dust bag or cover for light colors. Keep the bag slightly open to prevent musty smells. Proper storage is the easiest way to extend your luggage's life.

Away products built for easy care

A consistent 15-minute care routine after each trip keeps your Away luggage looking good and working smoothly for years. Clean gently, dry completely, and store smart—your future self will thank you.