How to Get Rid of Musty Smells in Luggage

How to Get Rid of Musty Smells in Luggage
Written By
Renee Kristi
Renee Kristi
Published: Dec 18, 2010
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
1 minute read

Things You Will Need

  • Plastic gloves
  • Vacuum cleaner with hose attachment
  • 1 cup rubbing alcohol
  • 1 cup warm water
  • Plastic container or bucket
  • Sponge

However, before you result to an expensive professional cleaning service or abandoning the bag all together, there is a simple, inexpensive at-home cleaning procedure that can clean your bag and eliminate the smell.

  1. Place the luggage and supplies in an outdoor area. Vacuum the interior and exterior surfaces of the luggage using the hose attachment.

  2. Put on your gloves. Combine the alcohol and water in the container. Dip the sponge in the mixture. Wring the sponge until it is damp (but not saturated).

  3. Wipe the interior and exterior surfaces of the luggage with the damp sponge. Dip and squeeze the sponge as needed to replenish the moisture.

  4. Place the luggage in direct sunlight and fresh air. Leave the luggage outside until it is completely dry.

Tips

Follow any instructions for care on your luggage to avoid damaging the bag.

Perform a spot test before treating your entire bag to avoid discoloration or damage.

Photo Credits

valigia sulla nave image by Adriano La Naia from Fotolia.com

valigia sulla nave image by Adriano La Naia from Fotolia.com

Renee Kristi

Based in Atlanta, Renee Kristi has been writing since 2001 and her work now appears on various websites. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Spelman College and a Juris Doctor from Georgia State University College of Law.

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