How To Clean A Vintage Style Suitcase

By: Frances Smith

Break Studios Contributing Writer

Clean a vintage style suitcase to make a great piece of luggage new again. Vintage style suitcases have character and style unlike newer luggage. If you're lucky enough to find a vintage style suitcase in good working order, the next step is to clean it up. Travel in style, but first, clean that suitcase in such as way so you don't damage it.

To clean a vintage style suitcase, you will need:

  • Paper towels
  • Water
  • Mr. Clean Magic Eraser
  • Vacuum cleaner
  • Baking soda
  1. Wipe the vintage style suitcase with damp paper towels. No matter the condition, most vintage suitcases are at least dusty from sitting somewhere unused. Wipe down the luggage making sure to get in all the cracks and crevices. The dirtiest spots are usually around the handle and closures.
  2. Use a damp Mr. Clean Magic Eraser for tough dirt. If you've ever used one, you know how effective a Magic Eraser can be. They seem to scrub off dirt from nearly everything. Scrub stains or especially dirty spots with the Magic Eraser. Be sure to rinse it often and to scrub gently on any parts of the vintage suitcase that may be delicate or showing wear so you don't damage it.
  3. Clean the inside. Open the vintage suitcase and remove any large items. Vacuum out the inside if needed then wipe down the interior to remove any bits of paper, dust, or other debris left over from the previous owner.
  4. Remove any odors. If the suitcase has a scent you don't care for, it's possible to remove these odors. Place the suitcase outside in the sun and leave it open for at least a couple of hours. If the odors remain, place a bowl of baking soda inside and close the suitcase overnight. The baking soda should absorb the odors.
Posted on: Jul. 20, 2010