How to clean and care for an aluminium suitcase

An aluminium suitcase can accompany you for years. Keeping the shell clean and the moving parts pleasant to use does not require complicated products: a soft cloth, some water and a few regular checks will do much of the work.

Clean the shell gently

After travelling, remove loose dust with a dry microfibre cloth. Then use a cloth lightly dampened with warm water and a little mild soap. Wipe without scrubbing hard, remove the soap with a clean damp cloth and dry the shell straight away with microfibre.

Avoid abrasive sponges, steel wool and harsh cleaning products; they can damage the finish. Test anything intended for a stubborn mark on an inconspicuous area first, and follow the manufacturer’s advice.

Scratches and small dents

Aluminium can show where it has been. Surface scratches and small dents may appear in use, particularly when a case travels in the hold. They are part of the material’s patina. Do not try to straighten a dent or polish a finish without checking that the method suits your model. Contact customer care before attempting to repair a part that no longer works properly.

Wheels, handle and locks

• Wheels: gently remove hair and fibres caught near the axles, then check that each wheel turns freely.
• Telescopic handle: wipe the visible rails when extended. Do not force it if it sticks.
• Locks: use them occasionally and keep your combination somewhere safe, away from the case.

Freshen the interior

Empty the suitcase. Vacuum crumbs and dust with a suitable attachment, then use a barely damp cloth on the lining if its care instructions allow it. Leave the case open until the inside is completely dry before storing it.

Between trips

Store the case somewhere dry, away from heat, without heavy objects on top. A quick check of shell, wheels and locks before your next departure can prevent an awkward surprise.