If you're not regularly cleaning your suitcase between trips, you might want to reconsider
It's pretty common now for most of us to travel with hand sanitiser, wet wipes, and maybe even a face mask to stay clean and healthy while on the road.
But there's one important thing that most of us are overlooking.
When was the last time you cleaned your suitcase?
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Your bags can pick up a lot of germs and bacteria. Getty
Sure, maybe you're one of those diligent people who unpacks as soon as they get home. However, experts recommend that we should also be taking the extra step to clean your actual suitcase as well.
Cleaning your suitcase isn't just about making sure it looks good, but is also an important step in keeping you healthy and warding off germs.
"Your luggage picks up more dirt and germs than you might realise, from conveyor belts to hotel rooms," said Courtney Landry, a product development manager with Norwex, according to HuffPost.
"The exterior of your suitcase becomes a host to millions of bacteria as it travels, collecting dust, dirt and debris."
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The handles and wheels are especially grimy. CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Imag
Microbiologist Jason Tetro, aka "The Germ Guy," told the publication that luggage is a common vehicle for the spread of infection.
"Luggage touches everything on the journey, so the best thing to do is keep the surface clean and safe."
"Put it this way ― ask yourself if you have cleaned your hands before you touched your face," he said. "Most likely the answer is no. What was on that handle that could potentially make you sick? You won't know. No one can, really. So, it's best to take the precaution and ensure that you are not putting yourself at risk."
The best way to clean the exterior of your suitcase is to use warm soapy water and a soft cloth or scrub brush, and wash down the whole thing. If you have a soft suitcase, use a little less water, but enough to work up a lather.
Pay close attention to the wheels and the handles, which tend to harbour the most bacteria.
You could also use a spray and wipe-style product to sanitise your suitcase.
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It's a good idea to clean your suitcase between holidays. Getty
The interior of your suitcase can get dirty, too.
The shoes and clothes we wear on holiday can bring in dirt and bacteria, so it's a good idea to also clean the inside of your luggage.
Start by using a hairdryer or small vacuum to get rid of any debris (like sand or dirt), then use a disinfecting wipe or spray to go over the interior fabric.
You can also spray rubbing alcohol onto the surfaces and let it dry, which acts as a sanitiser.
Then, leave your luggage open to air-dry and prevent moisture buildup.
