Try TikTok's Latest Hack For Removing Scuff Marks From Your Favorite Luggage
Keeping your luggage looking as good as the day you bought it is no easy task — especially if your bag has hit the luggage claim belt more than once. After all, even our favorite bags often endure quite the beating — from minor scratches and scrapes to dreaded scuff marks, because despite our best efforts to prevent it, a well-traveled suitcase usually ends up with metaphorical scars to prove just how well-traveled it truly is.
However, according to TikTok user @cleanthatup, using a melamine sponge — also known as a "magic eraser" — can help get rid of those annoying marks, at least until your next trip comes along. And what's even better is that the process is surprisingly simple: Just fill a bucket with some warm water, add a splash of dish soap, dunk your sponge, and gently scrub the scuff, watching as it disappears right before your eyes. Then, once you're happy with the results, simply wipe down your luggage using a damp towel, and ta-da — the scratches and marks are gone.
Quick tips for using a magic eraser
Made from melamine foam, "magic erasers" have been around since about 2003 when they were first introduced by the widely-loved cleaning brand, Mr. Clean. Designed to get rid of even the toughest stains, these sponges have a fine, sandpaper-like texture which makes them the perfect ally for removing marks without damaging the surface of whatever you're trying to clean.
Overall, the magic eraser has many pros. For one, it's incredibly versatile. From cleaning kitchen countertops to bathtubs and removing price stickers to polishing your shoes, these handy sponges work perfectly on a variety of different surfaces, materials, and types of grime. Additionally, they're also non-toxic and safe for the environment. This means that you're free to use them without worrying about introducing any harmful chemicals into your home or contributing to pollution.
Nonetheless, there are also some cons to be aware of. For example, magic erasers can sometimes be a little too effective. This means that if you scrub too hard, they can eventually end up removing the paint or finish — not just the dirt. So, while they're typically a great solution for cleaning certain scuff marks off luggage, they shouldn't be used on items made of wood, stainless steel, screens, or varnished surfaces.
Other alternatives to keep your luggage clean
Now, if you ever run into a scuff or mark on your suitcase that even a magic eraser can't handle, there's no need to panic. There are other ways to keep your luggage looking its best. For softside luggage, for example, a simple spot-cleaning solution to try is using a mixture of baking soda and water. This natural cleanser can help remove marks and other stains that might look tough to beat. Just apply the paste mixture to a cloth, gently rub on the scuff, and then wipe clean.
Meanwhile, there are also additional quick and easy cleaning solutions that can help tackle different problems. For freshening up the inside of your luggage after a long trip, a combination of warm water and fresh detergent can help get rid of any stains and lingering smells. And, if the smell continues to linger, experts agree that leaving some activated charcoal inside your suitcase for a few days will work wonders.
Even if your suitcase made it back from your travels unscathed, it's always a good idea to show it some love. Regular cleaning — even without visible dirt or scratches — can enhance the longevity of your luggage, keep it fresh, and ensure it's ready for your next journey. So, whether visibly dirty or not, giving your luggage a little TLC is always a good move.