The Tool Desk
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For routine dust and dirt, wipe a RIMOWA aluminum suitcase with a clean, soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge dampened with clean water. For stubborn travel marks or sticker adhesive, RIMOWA recommends a careful spot treatment with its Aluminum & Polycarbonate Care Cream. Deep scratches and dents are not cleaning problems: RIMOWA says they cannot be removed.
Clean ordinary dust and dirt with water
- Dampen a clean, soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge with clean water.
- Wipe the aluminum shell gently. Avoid abrasive rubbing.
- Let the case dry. For ordinary dust and dirt, RIMOWA’s basic care instructions do not call for a specialty cleaner.
RIMOWA gives this routine in its owner manual. Avoid household cleaners and abrasive tools; the brand warns that they can damage the case.
Treat scuffs, rubber marks, and other stubborn travel marks
For selected marks that do not come off with water, RIMOWA recommends its Aluminum & Polycarbonate Care Cream. This is a spot treatment, not a way to restore a scratched or dented shell.
- Gather three clean, soft cloths and a small bowl of warm water. RIMOWA’s US tutorial says the water should be no warmer than 104°F (40°C).
- Use one dry cloth to remove loose dust from the area.
- Put a small amount of care cream on the second cloth. Dab the mark, then rub gently in a circular motion.
- Dampen the third cloth with warm water and wipe away excess cream. Allow the area to dry.
- Wash your hands after applying the cream. RIMOWA’s product guidance says to avoid prolonged skin contact and wash hands thoroughly after use.
See RIMOWA’s cleaning tutorial for the spot-treatment directions. Its Aluminum & Polycarbonate Care Cream product page describes the cream as intended for spot-cleaning scuffs, sticker residue, and rubber marks on aluminum or polycarbonate luggage; the listed container is 200 ml / 6.8 oz.
#1 Best Overall
- Easy Luggage Cleaning: Spray directly onto suitcase surfaces and use the included sponge to gently remove dirt, scuffs, stains, and grime. Safe for all hard and soft luggage materials not damaged by water for a polished, travel-ready look.
- Effective Stain & Dirt Removal: Gently lifts away everyday buildup, grease, fingerprints, and scuffs from hard and soft suitcases. For tough stains, allow the cleaner to soak for 5 minutes or more before wiping for optimal results.
- Natural Citrus Formula: Uses bio-derived, plant-based ingredients and the natural cleaning power of citrus to clean effectively while being safe, eco-friendly, and sustainable. Leaves luggage smelling fresh without harsh chemicals.
- Protects & Revives Surfaces: Maintains the finish of your luggage while cleaning. The sponge and formula help prevent scratches, watermarks, and residue, keeping suitcases looking like new for travel, work trips, or daily use.
- Complete Travel Cleaning Kit: Includes premium liquid cleaner and sponge for fast, streak-free cleaning. Perfect for hard and soft suitcases, carry-ons, backpacks, duffel bags, and travel gear to remove dirt, stains, odors, and scuffs.
Remove airline stickers and adhesive without scraping
- Gently lift the sticker with a plastic card, taking care not to gouge the shell.
- If glue remains, put a small amount of care cream on a clean, soft cloth and spot-clean the residue.
- Wipe off excess cream with a separate soft cloth dampened with warm water.
RIMOWA’s tutorial recommends a plastic card and notes that some glue may remain after lifting the sticker. Do not substitute a sharp blade or abrasive scraper.
Clean the interior and respond to spills
- Remove the Flex Divider and strap, and open any zipped compartments.
- Carefully vacuum loose dust using a soft-brush attachment.
- If liquid gets on the lining, promptly dab it with a clean, soft cloth dampened with warm water.
These interior instructions are in RIMOWA’s Canada cleaning tutorial.
Rank #2
- Complete luxury luggage care in one kit — the Aervé Jet Set Pack includes our signature Cleaner, Protectant Spray, and sponge applicator; everything you need to clean, restore, and shield your bags before every trip
- Cleaner works on hard shell and soft shell luggage — our green formula safely lifts dirt, scuffs, and travel grime from luggage and travel bags; for tough stains apply and wait 10–20 seconds before wiping
- Use the right applicator for your surface — use the included sponge on hard shell luggage for best results; switch to a soft cloth on fabric, leather, or soft shell to protect delicate materials
- Protectant creates an invisible shield in 24 hours — spray onto soft shell luggage, tote bags, backpacks, and more; wait 24 hours and watch water, liquids, dirt, and grime slide right off
- Eco-preferred and travel-ready — consciously formulated with an eco-preferred solution; reusable packaging makes the Jet Set Pack the perfect gift for any frequent flyer or traveler
Cleaners and tools to avoid
RIMOWA warns against scouring detergents, abrasive cloths or sponges, window-cleaning agents, vinegar-based cleaners, disinfectants, solvents, dilutions, aggressive alcohols, petroleum distillates, and nail-polish remover. Its care FAQ also cautions against bleach, ammonia, acetone, and scouring pads.
Because the care FAQ warns against aggressive alcohols while the tutorial recommends its cream for spot treatment, follow the material-specific cleaning directions rather than experimenting with a household solvent. Check RIMOWA’s care FAQ for the brand’s warnings.
Rank #3
- Exclusively for RIMOWA Original Check-In L: Designed with millimeter precision specifically and only for the Original Check-In L model. Shields your large suitcase from the brutal realities of travel, preventing deep dents and severe scratches. If you own a different model, please select your exact suitcase from the drop-down menu for a perfect fit.
- The myth of patina: We believe every dent does not tell a story – it just looks unkempt. This cover preserves the pristine condition of your case. The puristic design wraps your luggage like a second skin during its most vulnerable moments.
- German engineering & precision fit: Developed in Germany. This is not a generic sleeve. We analyzed the exact geometry of the Original Check-In L. Side handles, wheel arches, and telescopic poles are perfectly cut out for a seamless, wrinkle-free fit.
- Ultimate failsafe security: Designed to perform when it gets rough. If premium locks burst open under extreme force, the high tension of our neoprene sleeve holds your heavy suitcase firmly together, keeping your belongings secure and your privacy intact.
- Built for ruthless baggage handling: The moment your luggage leaves the check-in counter, you lose control. This heavy-duty protector absorbs high-impact drops from baggage handlers and protects the vulnerable corners of your large checked suitcase. TSA-friendly.
What cleaning cannot fix
RIMOWA says deep dents and scratches cannot be removed. The brand describes them as the case’s unique patina, not as marks that a stronger cleaner will erase. Clean removable dirt or residue gently, but do not use increasingly abrasive methods on permanent damage.
Quick Recap
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