HOW TO CARE FOR SOFT SHELL LUGGAGE

Soft shell luggage like the Heritage Softshell Medium and the Heritage Softshell Carry-On are popular for good reason. They’re lightweight, flexible, and easy to squeeze into overhead bins or crowded car boots. But to keep your soft shell luggage looking nice and lasting trip after trip, it’s worth taking a little extra care.

Here’s a simple guide to cleaning and maintaining your soft shell luggage so that they are your go-to for many adventures to come.

Soft shell luggage can pick up dust, dirt, and stains when you’re traveling through airports or rolling over footpaths. After each trip, do a quick wipe-down. Use a soft, damp cloth to remove surface grime. For hard to clean spots, mix a little mild soap with warm water and gently scrub with a sponge. Make sure to avoid harsh cleaners or bleach on your travel bags as they can damage the fabric and fade the colour.

If you have a bag like the Heritage Softshell Medium Luggage, spot cleaning after each trip will help preserve its clean look over time. Always let the bag air-dry completely before storing it. Never use a hair dryer or direct heat, as that can warp materials or weaken stitching.

Our soft shell luggage is made from durable materials, but it’s still wise to protect your bags from heavy rain or long exposure to moisture. If you expect wet conditions, consider using a luggage cover or storing the bag under shelter while you wait for transportation. After any exposure to rain, always wipe your Herschel bag dry with a towel and let it air out when you reach your destination.

Zippers are one of the most important parts of your luggage, however they are often overlooked when it comes to maintenance. Zippers take a lot of wear and tear, so it’s best to give them some attention. Give the zippers on your soft shell luggage a once-over for any dirt or lint. If you notice them getting stuck or feeling rough, rub a little bit of zipper lubricant or even a dab of petroleum jelly along the teeth to keep them gliding smoothly.

When packing, avoid overstuffing your luggage as filling your soft shell luggage beyond capacity can strain zippers and put pressure on the seams. Instead, pack your clothes and travel accessories mindfully, and close zippers gently without taking too much force.

Proper storage goes a long way towards extending the life of your Herschel bags. When you’re not using your soft shell luggage, empty it out completely and store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading or damage to the fabric. If you have limited space, place smaller bags inside larger ones to save some room.

Avoid stacking heavy items on top of your soft shell luggage, as this can flatten or damage the bag’s structure over time. If you can, keep bags standing upright or lying flat without pressure.

Even though soft shell luggage is built to withstand everyday knocks and scrapes, handling it with care will keep it in top shape longer. Always use the side handles and telescoping pull rods the way they’re meant to be used so avoid yanking or twisting them. When you lift your bag onto a conveyor belt or into a car trunk, support it from the bottom so you’re not putting all the stress on one handle. Never lift your luggage by the pull handle, always stick to the sturdy side handles for safe carrying.

Soft shell luggage like the Herschel Heritage series is designed for life on the go. With a little regular cleaning, mindful packing, and safe storage your luggage travel system will stay in great shape for years of insta-worthy adventures. Treat your soft shell baggage well, and it will be ready for wherever you’re headed next.

Check out more care guides including our guide to caring for hard-shell luggage.