For everyday dust and dirt, wipe a RIMOWA aluminum suitcase with a clean, soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge dampened with clean water. For stubborn scuffs, rubber marks or sticker adhesive, RIMOWA recommends a gentle spot treatment with its Aluminum & Polycarbonate Care Cream. Deep scratches and dents are different: RIMOWA says they cannot be cleaned away.
Clean dust and ordinary dirt with water
- Dampen a clean, soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge with clean water.
- Wipe the aluminum shell gently to lift dust or dirt. Avoid abrasive rubbing.
- Let the surface dry. RIMOWA’s routine-care instructions do not call for a specialty cleaner for ordinary dust and dirt.
RIMOWA’s owner manual recommends this water-and-cloth approach and cautions against harsh or abrasive cleaners.
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Treat scuffs and rubber marks carefully
For visible travel marks that water alone does not remove, RIMOWA recommends its Aluminum & Polycarbonate Care Cream as a spot cleaner. Use it only on the affected area, rather than treating it as a general-purpose shell polish.
The Tool Desk
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- Use the first dry cloth to remove loose dust from the spot.
- Put a small amount of care cream on the second cloth. Dab the mark, then rub gently in a circular motion.
- Dampen the third cloth with warm water and wipe away excess cream. Allow the area to dry.
- Wash your hands after applying the cream; its product guidance says to avoid prolonged skin contact and wash thoroughly after use.
See RIMOWA’s US cleaning tutorial for the spot-treatment method. The Aluminum & Polycarbonate Care Cream product page describes it as intended for spot-cleaning scuffs, sticker residue and rubber marks on aluminum or polycarbonate luggage; it lists a 200 ml / 6.8 oz size and says the product is made in France.
#1 Best Overall
- Easy Luggage Cleaning: Spray directly onto suitcase surfaces and use the included sponge to gently remove dirt, scuffs, stains, and grime. Safe for all hard and soft luggage materials not damaged by water for a polished, travel-ready look.
- Effective Stain & Dirt Removal: Gently lifts away everyday buildup, grease, fingerprints, and scuffs from hard and soft suitcases. For tough stains, allow the cleaner to soak for 5 minutes or more before wiping for optimal results.
- Natural Citrus Formula: Uses bio-derived, plant-based ingredients and the natural cleaning power of citrus to clean effectively while being safe, eco-friendly, and sustainable. Leaves luggage smelling fresh without harsh chemicals.
- Protects & Revives Surfaces: Maintains the finish of your luggage while cleaning. The sponge and formula help prevent scratches, watermarks, and residue, keeping suitcases looking like new for travel, work trips, or daily use.
- Complete Travel Cleaning Kit: Includes premium liquid cleaner and sponge for fast, streak-free cleaning. Perfect for hard and soft suitcases, carry-ons, backpacks, duffel bags, and travel gear to remove dirt, stains, odors, and scuffs.
Remove airline stickers without scraping the shell
- Gently lift the sticker with a plastic card. Do not use a sharp blade or abrasive scraper.
- If adhesive remains, put a small amount of care cream on a clean, soft cloth and spot-treat the residue.
- Wipe away excess cream with a separate soft cloth dampened with warm water.
RIMOWA notes that glue may remain after peeling a sticker and recommends the plastic-card and care-cream approach in its cleaning tutorial.
Clean the interior and respond to spills
- Remove the Flex Divider and strap, and open zipped compartments.
- Carefully vacuum loose dust using a soft-brush attachment.
- If liquid spills on the lining, promptly dab the area with a clean, soft cloth dampened with warm water.
These interior steps are described in RIMOWA’s Canada cleaning tutorial.
Rank #2
- Complete luxury luggage care in one kit — the Aervé Jet Set Pack includes our signature Cleaner, Protectant Spray, and sponge applicator; everything you need to clean, restore, and shield your bags before every trip
- Cleaner works on hard shell and soft shell luggage — our green formula safely lifts dirt, scuffs, and travel grime from luggage and travel bags; for tough stains apply and wait 10–20 seconds before wiping
- Use the right applicator for your surface — use the included sponge on hard shell luggage for best results; switch to a soft cloth on fabric, leather, or soft shell to protect delicate materials
- Protectant creates an invisible shield in 24 hours — spray onto soft shell luggage, tote bags, backpacks, and more; wait 24 hours and watch water, liquids, dirt, and grime slide right off
- Eco-preferred and travel-ready — consciously formulated with an eco-preferred solution; reusable packaging makes the Jet Set Pack the perfect gift for any frequent flyer or traveler
Cleaners and tools to avoid
RIMOWA’s owner manual and care FAQ warn against using the following on the case:
Recommended Free Tools
- Scouring detergents, abrasive cloths or sponges, and scouring pads
- Window-cleaning agents, vinegar-based cleaners, disinfectants, bleach or ammonia
- Solvents, dilutions, aggressive alcohols, petroleum distillates, acetone or nail-polish remover
Although the owner manual discusses isopropyl alcohol for certain stubborn residue, the separate care FAQ cautions against aggressive alcohols. For aluminum-shell marks and sticker adhesive, use the material-specific spot-cleaning method rather than applying alcohol or another harsh household cleaner. See RIMOWA’s care FAQ and owner manual.
Rank #3
- Exclusively for RIMOWA Original Check-In L: Designed with millimeter precision specifically and only for the Original Check-In L model. Shields your large suitcase from the brutal realities of travel, preventing deep dents and severe scratches. If you own a different model, please select your exact suitcase from the drop-down menu for a perfect fit.
- The myth of patina: We believe every dent does not tell a story – it just looks unkempt. This cover preserves the pristine condition of your case. The puristic design wraps your luggage like a second skin during its most vulnerable moments.
- German engineering & precision fit: Developed in Germany. This is not a generic sleeve. We analyzed the exact geometry of the Original Check-In L. Side handles, wheel arches, and telescopic poles are perfectly cut out for a seamless, wrinkle-free fit.
- Ultimate failsafe security: Designed to perform when it gets rough. If premium locks burst open under extreme force, the high tension of our neoprene sleeve holds your heavy suitcase firmly together, keeping your belongings secure and your privacy intact.
- Built for ruthless baggage handling: The moment your luggage leaves the check-in counter, you lose control. This heavy-duty protector absorbs high-impact drops from baggage handlers and protects the vulnerable corners of your large checked suitcase. TSA-friendly.
Know what cleaning cannot fix
Cleaning can address surface dirt, some travel marks and adhesive residue; it cannot undo deep physical damage. RIMOWA’s care FAQ says deep dents and scratches cannot be removed and describes them as the case’s unique patina. Do not expect a cleaner or care cream to erase them.
Quick Recap
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