Post: #1

Didn't see a thread or post on this, so I thought I'd share a quick and easy way to get rid of odors in your travel gear.

Found this solution after recently dusting off my biggest travel case. Upon opening I realized it had been sitting since Spring with unwashed ski clothes and gear. I'm not squeamish, but mayne dat smell...



What you need:

Dish soap
Baking soda
Essential oil of your preference (I used orange. You can get essential oils at local hobby stores, or just go online.)

How to:

1. Start by vacuum cleaning your luggage bag.

2. Drop 1/2 a teaspoon of dish soap into a bowl of water. Soak a cloth in it, wring it out and start wiping down the entire inside of your case. Make sure the cloth is not too wet.

3. Leave the bag open and let dry for a few hours. Go read RVF.

4. Put baking soda in a bowl (I used a bag of 170 grams). Add 10-20 drops of your chosen essential oil to the baking soda. Mix for a few minutes with a fork until you've worked the oil into the baking soda; it should be grainy and emanate your chosen scent.

5. Sprinkle the mixture into your bag, 50/50 either side or apply where you suspect the smell's epicenter is. Then rub the baking soda/oil mix into the textile interior for a few minutes, making sure to apply it in every corner and cranny.

6. Let sit for at least 12 hours. I let mine sit for a day, allowing the baking soda ample time to absorb the odor. I don't know if it's more effective to close the bag while the baking soda does its magic; I left my bag open and it worked fine. Afterwards empty the luggage of the baking soda and vacuum clean again.

That's it. Total cost around 6$ (1$ for baking soda and 5$ for essential oil). My bag is odorless. If you put your nose really close you can catch a subtle whiff of orange, but it doesn't stick to clothes.

Hopefully it will save you money. My first reaction was "Ah shit man, the bag is ruined now. Better get a new one" figuring the smell was permanent. After some googling I realized it was worth to try a home remedy, and it worked great. Easy way to refresh your travel gear.

Post: #2

Sounds good, but I have a method that is equally as effective and less time consuming - hand to wife/girlfriend/maid.

Post: #3

Fabric softener sheets work very well.

Post: #4

^ Also decent mosquito repellent in a pinch.

Beyond All Seas

"The individual has always had to struggle to keep from being overwhelmed by the tribe.
To be your own man is a hard business. If you try it, you'll be lonely often, and sometimes
frightened. But no price is too high to pay for the privilege of owning yourself." - Kipling

Post: #5

Get a hard shell clam style lock suitcase. No airport thieve will try and pick it and easy to clean / stuff inside has less chance of breakage.