Just Got Back From a Trip? Here's How to Deep Clean Your Luggage in 4 Easy Steps

Disinfect, inside and out.

Whether you have hard or soft luggage, your disinfectant can be the same: hydrogen peroxide or rubbing alcohol. Reichert advises wiping down the entire suitcase with either.

Fill a spray bottle with hydrogen peroxide and spray liberally on hard-faced luggage. Use "just a light mist if your luggage has a fabric surface," Reichert says.

Or, Reichert recommends filling a spray bottle about 60% of the way with rubbing alcohol and then adding water. This solution will also rid your luggage of any viruses or harmful bacteria.

Lift spills, stains, and scuff marks.

Now let's talk about those pesky stains. Fabric bags may be able to hold slightly more clothing, but they can be a pain to de-stain after a spill.

"Stains on soft fabric surfaces can be sprayed or dabbed with hydrogen peroxide," says Reichert. "Let it sit overnight to see if it lifts the stain."

That said, to remove grease-based stains, Reichert says to use rubbing alcohol or diluted dishwashing detergent. She also notes that you can add a few teaspoons of rubbing alcohol to a diluted dish soap and water mixture. "The soap will lift the dirt, and the alcohol will cut through the grease," she says.

For hard surfaces, you may be able to dodge stains, but if you start to notice scuff marks, Reichert's trick is to grab a tennis ball or Mr. Clean Magic Eraser sponge.

Refresh and deodorize.

If your luggage has picked up an odor or been left with a stale smell over time, there are some quick fixes to try. For odor, sprinkle baking soda inside the luggage and let it sit for a few days to absorb any odors, Reichert explains.

"You can also make a linen spray by mixing witch hazel and a few drops of your favorite essential oil," she says. "Spray the inside of the [suitcase] and it will smell great when you go to use it again."

Assuage anxieties.

Reichert also has some advice for people who are afraid of bringing home lice or bed bugs. "I'd recommend storing the piece of luggage in a garbage bag for 48 hours to prevent contamination, then washing it inside and out with warm, soapy water," she explains. "Then spray it with hydrogen peroxide or rubbing alcohol."