According to an airport baggage worker, you should never put your luggage or packages on your furniture or bed when you are unpacking.
Why You Should Never Put Your Luggage on Your Bed—No Matter How Clean It Looks
Let’s face it: luggage isn’t exactly known for its hygiene. Between being tossed on conveyor belts, dragged across public transport, and wheeled into public restrooms, your suitcase is picking up way more than just souvenirs on your travels.
But here’s the kicker: it’s not just dirt you should worry about. That trusty travel companion could actually be a hotspot for germs.
A Vehicle for Germs
It may seem very odd that your luggage could result in an infection, but you should be aware that your luggage is just a vehicle for transporting your belongings and it is being touched by so many different people at the airport including the baggage handlers, but also the TSA agents.
In addition, warm and humid climates make your suitcase a breeding ground for bacteria, especially if it’s not cleaned after every trip. You should always disinfect your luggage regularly to avoid catching an infection. It might feel like a hassle, but skipping this step could mean bringing home unwanted microscopic passengers.
The “Bag Dirt” You Don’t See
If that doesn’t convince you, maybe, you should listen to this from the perspective and experience of an airport baggage handler who sees hundreds of suitcases daily—can. In one Tiktok video, which went viral with almost 200K views, an airport baggage handler whose last name is Craig revealed the grimy truth about luggage. In her video, she said she hated to break the bad news, but that every luggage that goes through the airport process is gross.
Craig shared that after every shift, she has to shower—not because she’s sweaty, but because she’s covered in what she calls “bag dirt.” She even shows her fluorescent yellow vest turned gray from handling luggage coated in grime.
And it’s not just her. The cargo holds of airplanes are often layered with this mysterious “bag dirt,” which transfers onto your luggage—and then potentially onto your bed, chair, or any surface it touches.
So, Craig’s advice is not to put your suitcase on a chair, bed or other furniture; not anywhere that you have to put your hands on. Now, let’s get into how you would clean your luggage to make sure that you follow this advice and even go a step further.
How to Clean Your Luggage Like a Pro
If you’re ready to tackle your travel grime, here’s how to keep your suitcase fresh and germ-free:
- Start the Routine at the Door:
When you get home, don’t let your suitcase waltz straight into the house. Unpack washable items and toss them directly into the laundry. For everything else, wipe them down before tackling the suitcase itself. - Handle the Handle:
While the wheels might seem like the dirtiest part, the real culprit is the handle. Everyone touches it—drivers, bellhops, you name it. A quick swipe with a disinfectant wipe can work wonders. - Wheel Check:
Wheels only need cleaning if they’re visibly dirty. Use a soapy rag to wipe them down and remove stuck-on grime. - Exterior Care:
- For hardshell luggage, an all-purpose cleaner or soapy water will do.
- For soft fabric luggage, go for a mild soap and water solution. Treat stubborn stains with baking soda, soap, or even rubbing alcohol.
- Freshen Up the Interior:
Suitcase linings can absorb odors and stains over time. Sprinkle baking soda inside to eliminate odors and follow up with a fabric spray or a few drops of essential oils for a pleasant scent.
It’s Not Just Luggage—Your Packages Are Dirty Too
Think your online orders are squeaky clean? Think again. A former worker who handled packages for UPS, FedEx, and Amazon pointed out that even a short shift of unloading trucks can leave you covered in dirt. Just like your luggage, anything shipped to your doorstep has traveled through its own version of “bag dirt.”
Why Germs on Luggage Are More Concerning Than You Think
You might be wondering, “How bad can it really be?” The answer: bad enough to take precautions. Germs and bacteria love the nooks and crannies of your luggage, from zippers to seams, and can survive for days or even weeks. Research has shown that high-touch surfaces like your luggage handle can harbor harmful bacteria, including E. coli and Staphylococcus.
And it’s not just bacteria—your suitcase can pick up mold, fungi, and even traces of viruses. Combine that with the warm, dark environment of your luggage, and you’ve got the perfect petri dish for unwanted visitors.
A Look at Where Your Luggage Travels
Think about this: from the moment you check in your bag, it starts a journey of its own. It’s handled by baggage staff, tossed onto conveyor belts, and stored in cargo holds that may not have been cleaned in years. On layovers, it gets shuffled around by multiple handlers, and when it’s finally returned to you, it’s spent hours in environments you can’t control.
Now imagine placing that suitcase on your bed—the same bed where you sleep. It’s not a pleasant thought, is it?
Pro Tips to Protect Your Home From Luggage Germs
Here’s how to stop luggage germs from creeping into your home:
- Set Up a “Dirty Zone”: Create a designated area near your entryway where luggage can be unpacked. This keeps germs contained and away from your living spaces.
- Use a Luggage Cover: A protective luggage cover can prevent grime from building up on the surface. Simply remove the cover and wash it after each trip.
- Invest in an Antimicrobial Spray: Products like travel-safe disinfectant sprays are great for a quick clean-up while on the go.
What About Carry-On Bags?
While carry-on bags avoid the cargo hold, they’re still exposed to germs. Think of all the places they go: under your airplane seat, onto bathroom floors, and into overhead compartments. Treat them the same way as checked luggage by cleaning the handles, wheels, and exteriors regularly.
How to Prevent Luggage Odors
Even if your luggage looks clean, it might not smell that way. A simple trick to keep odors at bay is to use activated charcoal bags inside your suitcase. These natural odor absorbers trap smells and moisture, keeping your bag fresh for your next trip.
You can also use dryer sheets in the lining or spray a mix of water and essential oils for a refreshing scent.
Travel Etiquette: Don’t Be “That Traveler”
Another reason to clean your luggage? It’s just good manners. Dirty bags can transfer grime to hotel furniture, rental cars, and even other travelers’ belongings. By maintaining clean luggage, you’re not only protecting yourself but also being considerate of others.
The Psychological Benefit of Clean Luggage
Travel can be stressful, and returning home to unpack is rarely fun. But taking the time to clean your suitcase can provide a small sense of control and routine. It’s a way to mentally “close the chapter” on your trip and prepare for your next adventure with a fresh start.
The Bottom Line
Your luggage isn’t just carrying your belongings—it’s also picking up a lot of dirt, germs, and grime along the way. So, the next time you come home, resist the temptation to plop it on your bed. A quick cleaning routine can protect you from hidden germs and keep your suitcase in great shape for your next adventure.
Travel smarter—and cleaner!
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