How to Remove Musty Odors From My Suitcase

A musty smell in a suitcase might be an indication of mildew.

If you get caught in the rain while traveling with a suitcase, it's likely you'll dry out before your suitcase will. Moisture can seep into the fibers making it harder to dry, especially if you're in a hurry to unpack and put it away. Since traveling with a musty smelling suitcase only serves to make your clothes smell less than clean, this odor should be addressed before you take your next trip.

Things You'll Need

• Soft-bristled brush
• Dish or laundry detergent
• Spray bottle
• Chlorine bleach
• Baking soda
• Sock

Instructions

1. Inspect the suitcase for signs of mold and mildew. Open it up and look inside and out.

2. Set the suitcase outside and allow it to bake in sunshine for 2 to 3 hours. The warmth will help it to dry out as well as kill any mildew or mold that may be on it or in it. If the weather isn't sunny, place the open suitcase in a well-ventilated room to dry instead.

3. Brush away the dried mold with a soft-bristled brush either outside or over a trash can as airborne mold spores can settle on other surfaces within your home and be problematic later.

4. Wipe down mildew and mold affected areas with warm soapy water and a sponge to remove the remaining stain. Sanitize the area with a very weak bleach solution of 2 tbsp. chlorine bleach in 1 qt. of water. Pour the sanitizer into a spray bottle and mist the area. Let it soak for 15 minutes.

5. Set the suitcase outside in the sunshine again to air dry. Situate the suitcase so dampened areas are uncovered and exposed to the sunlight. Place the suitcase in a well-ventilated room with a fan if the weather isn't cooperating.

6. Fill a sock with baking soda and tie the end so it can't spill out. Place it inside the suitcase to absorb excess moisture and odors. Leave it overnight.

Tips & Warnings

• Talk to a professional dry cleaner about mildew on nonwashable suitcase materials such as leather to avoid damaging it.

• Do not store the suitcase until it is completely dry as this can spur mold and mildew growth.

• Always wear gloves, glasses and a mask when dealing with mold and mildew.

References

• University of Georgia; Mildew Prevention and Removal; Dale Dorman, MS; 1997
• University of Missouri Extension; How to Prevent and Remove Mildew --- Home Methods; Wanda Eubank; April 1998
• University of Kentucky: Odors: What's That Smell?; Linda R. Adler; January 1997