How to Extend the Life of Your Sustainable Luggage

Using sustainable luggage is good for you and the planet. Whether it’s parts made from recycled materials, vegan leather or a suitcase that’s fixable, ensuring your bag is well taken care of will make it last for years of future trips.

In fact, being sustainable includes what happens after purchase too. Choosing to make your luggage last longer helps the environment a lot. All things considered, using one bag for several years uses less than one that needs to be switched out every few years.

 In this guide, we’ll offer advice on keeping, safeguarding and fixing your sustainable luggage—so it can travel for years.

Why Caring for Your Luggage Matters

Luggage goes through a lot—airports, cobblestone streets, bus terminals, extreme weather, and the occasional overhead bin battle. Even high-quality, eco-conscious luggage isn’t immune to wear and tear.

But here’s the truth: with the right care, even a well-travelled bag can look and function like new for years.

By maintaining your luggage, you’re:

• • Reducing landfill waste

  • Minimizing your carbon footprint

  • Saving money on replacements

  • Supporting the slow-consumption movement

1. Clean Your Luggage Regularly

Dirt, spills, and stains don’t just look bad—they can weaken fabrics, zippers, and hardware over time. Regular cleaning can dramatically extend the life of your bag.

How to Clean Different Materials:

• Recycled Polyester/Nylon: Wipe with a damp cloth using mild soap and water. Avoid bleach or harsh detergents that break down fibers.

• Canvas or Cotton: Spot clean with a gentle brush and diluted soap. Air dry completely before storing.

• Waterproof Coatings: Gently clean with a microfiber cloth and avoid abrasive sponges that can scratch the surface.

Always empty all compartments and brush out debris before deep cleaning.

2. Repair, Don’t Replace

Most luggage damage is minor and easily fixable. A zipper snag, small rip, or broken wheel doesn’t mean the end of your bag’s life.

Common Repairs:

• Zipper issues: Try a graphite pencil or zipper lubricant to loosen stiff zippers. If the pull tab breaks, replace it with a keyring or zipper pull.

• Tears or holes: Use fabric patches, gear repair tape, or hand-stitch for canvas and polyester materials.

• Wheels and handles: Many sustainable luggage brands offer replacement parts. Check if your luggage was designed with modular or repairable components.

Learn basic sewing skills or keep a travel-friendly repair kit with you on longer trips.

3. Store It Properly

How you store your luggage can significantly affect its longevity.

Do:

• • Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight

  • Stuff with clean clothes or packing cubes to help it maintain its shape

  • Leave zippers slightly open to prevent stress on seams

Don’t:

• Store damp bags (can lead to mould/mildew)

• Leave it compressed under heavy objects

• Keep near heaters or in hot garages (especially for synthetic fabrics)

Pro Tip: Use reusable desiccant packs inside your luggage to prevent moisture buildup during long-term storage.

4. Waterproof It (If Needed)

Even if your sustainable luggage is water-resistant, just like Koora’s, consider reapplying a non-toxic waterproof spray once a year, especially if you travel in rainy climates.

Choose eco-safe formulas without harmful fluorocarbons (PFCs). These help fabrics repel water and dirt while maintaining breathability.

Apply waterproofing spray in a ventilated area, and let it dry fully before use.

5. Handle With Care During Transit

Airports and buses can be tough on luggage. Being intentional about how you handle and pack your bags can help avoid unnecessary damage.

Tips:

• Use luggage tags with protective covers (to prevent snags or rips)

• Wrap fragile components like wheels or handles in clothing

• Avoid overstuffing—this strains zippers and seams

• If checking your bag, use a lightweight luggage cover made from recycled material

When possible, carry your luggage onboard to reduce the risk of it being thrown around or damaged in cargo holds.

6. Rotate Your Gear

If you own more than one sustainable bag—perhaps a backpack and a suitcase—rotate their use depending on the trip. This gives each bag a rest, reduces constant wear, and extends its overall lifespan.

Also, alternating your bags helps you spot wear or damage early before it becomes a bigger issue.

7. Choose Versatile Accessories

Accessories like packing cubes, compression bags, and organisers not only improve efficiency but also reduce internal wear. By preventing clothes from shifting or overloading compartments, you protect zippers, linings, and seams.

Stick to travel accessories made from recycled materials, or reuse ones you already have.

8. Know Your Brand’s Warranty & Repair Policy

Many sustainable carry-on luggage companies understand that durability is key to eco-friendly design. They often offer:

• Lifetime repair warranties

• Affordable part replacements

• Buy-back or recycling programs

If something breaks, check their website or customer support to see if a repair is covered before throwing it out.

Register your luggage if the company offers it—it can make claiming repairs or support much easier.

9. Customise for Longevity

Simple customisations can help you adapt your bag to evolving travel needs and reduce damage risks:

• Add removable straps for flexibility

• Use carabiners or loops to secure loose gear

• Attach a reflective patch if walking at night in unfamiliar places

• Replace worn zipper pulls with durable paracord or natural fiber ties

Personalizing your gear also makes it easier to identify and less likely to be taken accidentally.

Final Thoughts: Extend the Life, Reduce the Impact

It’s important to use eco-friendly check-in bags, but keeping them maintained makes the difference.

A little attention will help your luggage travel with you numerous times without problems. You’ll use eco-friendly methods, cut back on your costs and ensure your action benefits a longer-lasting economy.

Whenever you’ve been away and return with your bag, pay it some attention by cleaning it and giving it some love before you store it away. Good care for your luggage means it provides good care for the earth and everyone involved.