Have You Ever Sanitized Your Suitcase? For most people, the answer is probably no. However, a quick swipe with a disinfectant wipe on the handle could actually help prevent illness. After all, your luggage might just be a breeding ground for germs.
The gray skies that have lingered for months can be wiped away with a trip abroad! Every little ray of sunshine piercing through the clouds makes it easier to imagine a vacation. Whether you’re traveling in Europe or further afield, to the beach or countryside, one thing is for certain: a suitcase or travel bag is essential. But even though they’re tied to one of the most anticipated times of year, these items can also bring unexpected issues. Rarely cleaned, they accumulate dust and germs over the years, which could impact your health.
Germs Hitching a Ride in Our Suitcases
During a trip, suitcases certainly get around. They are passed from hand to hand, tossed in the hold of an airplane or bus, and sometimes tested by the steps of a bustling subway. When we return from vacation, clothes are tossed in the washer, but the suitcase? It typically goes right back into the closet… and that’s a mistake. You’re not the only one bringing back souvenirs from your trip: luggage collects its own unpleasant surprises. “Luggage is a vector for transferring pathogens, meaning it can spread infections,” explains microbiologist Jason Tetro in The Washington Post.
Risks from Foreign Microorganisms
Once out of their natural habitat, some foreign microorganisms present a broader risk. “Each tourist carries enormous amounts of microbes in their intestines, on their skin, and on their belongings (suitcases, clothing…), which colonize far-off destinations. These exchanges increase the resistance of microorganisms and accelerate the spread of infectious diseases,” notes Dr. Kierzek, Medical Director at Doctissimo, speaking to the specialized health site.
How to Sanitize Your Suitcase
It is recommended to clean the handle of your suitcase first, as well as the zipper, using a cloth and disinfectant. You should also avoid placing your suitcase on your bed to limit contact with germs or parasites that might be on the luggage. For the inside, a quick vacuum is usually sufficient.
Read Also: Bedbugs: Tips to Avoid and Eliminate Them
A Balanced Approach to Hygiene
While it’s good to be aware of the germs on luggage and to adopt better habits, there’s no need to obsess over cleaning it. “Too much hygiene kills hygiene,” Dr. Kierzek reminds us via Doctissimo. In the long run, the pursuit of a completely sterile environment can be far more harmful to health than a dusty suitcase.
