Travel bags go through a lot—overhead bins, dirty train luggage racks, hotel carpets—and the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 30 and 45 are no exception. When it’s time to clean yours, keep it simple.
Start by filling a sink or tub with warm water and adding a bit of Dawn Ultra Dish Soap. Let the bag soak for a few minutes to help loosen any dirt and grime. Then, using a microfiber cloth, gently scrub the exterior—paying extra attention to heavily used areas. Once you’re done, be sure to rinse the bag thoroughly with clean water to remove all soap residue. Leftover detergent can attract dirt or cause fabric issues over time.
After cleaning, lay the bag on a towel outside to dry. Unzip everything and open the top flap so air can flow through. On a warm day (around 87°F or 30°C), it’ll dry enough to bring inside after 5 hours. Still, let it fully air dry for at least 24 hours before packing it again.
That’s it. No special sprays or machines—just a bit of soap, time, and airflow to get your bag looking and smelling fresh for your next adventure.
No bleach, no fabric softener, no dryer. The Aeronaut’s materials hold up well to regular use but don’t respond well to heat or harsh chemicals. A dryer will damage the fabric and potentially warp any structural components. Same goes for leaving it in direct sun for extended periods while drying.
After emptying the bag completely, use a slightly damp microfiber cloth to wipe down the interior lining. For stubborn spots, a small amount of dish soap on the cloth works well. Rinse by wiping again with a clean damp cloth, then leave the bag open and upside down to let the interior dry fully before use.
For minor dirt or scuffs, a full soak isn’t always necessary. A damp cloth with a drop of Dawn handles most surface marks. Worth doing after a long journey through dusty train stations or a particularly rough travel day rather than waiting until a deep clean is needed.
The zippers and buckles collect grime in the teeth and hinge points over time. A soft toothbrush dipped in the soap solution will get into zipper teeth. Wipe hardware down with a damp cloth after. Tom Bihn zippers are quality — they just need occasional attention to keep running smoothly.
Once or twice a year is enough for most travelers, or after any trip where the bag got genuinely dirty. A quick spot clean after each trip is better than letting grime build up and requiring a more aggressive wash later.