You probably already know that placing your suitcase on the hotel bed isn’t the best idea because it can pick up bed bugs. But there’s an even bigger reason to rethink where you set your luggage. A recent study by Insure and Go found that your suitcase can collect a bunch of unwanted "travel companions" along the way, including harmful bacteria and black mold. This is especially concerning since 38% of people regularly put their suitcase on the bed or table while packing or unpacking. Keep reading to learn expert tips on handling your luggage safely and avoiding hidden hygiene hazards.
What’s Lurking on Your Suitcase?
The study tested 10 hard- and soft-shell suitcases at a London airport train station. Swabs were taken from different spots on each suitcase. The results were shocking:
The suitcase wheels held 58 times more bacteria than a public toilet seat, including E. coli, staphylococcus, and black mold.
“Tests confirmed that suitcase wheels are by far the dirtiest part of a traveler’s bag,” said Amy-May Pointer, the study’s lead microbiologist.
“Suitcase wheels literally roll over bacteria-covered surfaces worldwide, carrying a whole ecosystem with them. They constantly touch sidewalks, streets, airport restroom floors, train platforms, and almost never get cleaned.”
It’s not just the wheels. The bottom of the suitcase also harbors significantly more bacteria than a public toilet seat, and luggage cart handles can be highly contaminated since many people touch them and they’re rarely cleaned. The study also found that soft-shell suitcases tend to hold onto bacteria, fungi, and other microbes more than hard-shell ones. Not surprising—when was the last time you cleaned your suitcase? Rolling suitcases constantly touch the ground, from your home to streets and airport restrooms, then get packed tightly with other travelers’ bags, whether in overhead bins or checked luggage. Here’s what to watch out for to minimize germs and keep your travels safer.
Watch Where You Roll Your Suitcase
Lift your suitcase instead of rolling it through especially dirty or wet areas like sidewalks, rainy streets, or spots where other travelers’ wheels have picked up grime. Pointer advises avoiding taking your suitcase into airport restrooms because these places are loaded with E. coli and other common toilet bacteria that can transfer to your suitcase bottom, then to your hands or clothes. If you must use the restroom, hold your suitcase by hand or on your shoulder—never let it touch the floor. Covering the wheels with a clean cloth or plastic wrap can also help reduce dirt and bacteria pickup.
Clean Your Suitcase Regularly
When you arrive or return home, wipe down your suitcase’s exterior with disinfectant wipes, soapy cloths, or spray, focusing especially on the wheels and bottom since they touch the most surfaces. Use a small brush or old toothbrush to clean wheels and hidden corners thoroughly. Regular cleaning not only cuts down bacteria but also extends your suitcase’s life by preventing wear from dirt and moisture. If you disinfect your suitcase regularly, every stage of your trip will be safer and more hygienic.
Use the Hotel Luggage Rack
The luggage rack in your hotel room is perfect for keeping your suitcase off surfaces like the bed or table, cutting down infection risks. If there’s no rack, bring your own suitcase mat or place your bag on a clean towel on the floor. This not only reduces bacteria but also protects hotel furniture from dirt and scratches.
Wash Your Hands After Touching Your Suitcase
Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water or use hand sanitizer after handling your suitcase, especially the wheels and bottom. This helps prevent bacteria from spreading to other surfaces like your phone, laptop, or snacks.
If you don’t wash your hands, you can transfer germs from your suitcase to almost any surface, increasing your chance of getting sick.
Just one small, mindful step can greatly lower infection risks and let you enjoy your vacation with peace of mind—without an unexpected illness ruining your fun.
