Hey everyone, it’s Libby here from Organize It—the most organized cleaning company in the world! Today, we’re diving into a topic that’s often overlooked but crucial for anyone on the move. Ever wonder just how clean the essentials of travel really are? I’m talking about your suitcase!

The Dirty Truth About Our Luggage:

While traveling to a video training session in Vegas last week, a thought struck me. We’re diligent about wiping down airplane seats and tray tables, even donning masks for protection, but what about our suitcases? After observing and researching, I was astounded by the reality: our suitcases are breeding grounds for dirt and germs.

By the Numbers:

In 2019 alone, 484 million bags were handled at airports, with approximately 2.8 million mishandled in various ways. Imagine the journey a single suitcase takes—from conveyor belts laden with grime to being tossed into cargo holds. It’s not just the volume of bags that’s staggering but also how they’re handled. An average airport employee might touch over a hundred bags per shift, meaning your suitcase could be touched by multiple people before it even reaches you.

The Ripple Effect of a Dirty Suitcase:

Think about this: your suitcase is handled by possibly 4-6 people per flight, each of whom also handles up to a hundred other bags. This multiplies the potential for your luggage to accumulate dirt and germs dramatically. And yet, after our travels, many of us place our suitcases on our beds or other clean surfaces at home to unpack, unknowingly spreading these germs.

Practical Tips for Keeping Your Suitcase Clean:

Here’s how I tackle suitcase cleanliness:

  • After every trip, I give my suitcase a thorough wipe-down.
  • For hard-shell cases, a Magic Eraser works wonders on scuffs and dirt.
  • For fabric suitcases, use Clorox or similar disinfectant wipes to sanitize the surface.

Conclusion:

It’s essential to treat your suitcase with as much care as you would any other surface in your home. Keep your travel gear in the trunk or on the floor, but never on beds or couches. This simple habit can significantly reduce the spread of dirt and germs into your living spaces.

If you’ve got more “how dirty is this?” topics or tips you’d like me to explore, drop a comment below or subscribe to our YouTube channel. Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel and sign up for our newsletter for more insights from Organize It, the most organized cleaning company in the world!