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Travellers Tape Luggage Wheels Before Flights: Does It Work?

Travellers Tape Luggage Wheels Before Flights: Does It Work?
Why Are Travellers Putting Tape On Their Luggage Wheels Before Flights? · NDTV

Some travellers are putting tape around their suitcase wheels before travelling.

The tape covers the part of the wheel that touches the ground.

It may stop some dirt and hair from sticking directly to the wheel.

A study found that suitcase wheels can collect a lot of germs and dirt.

However, the tape does not fix broken wheels or protect the parts inside them.

If the tape is loose or too thick, the suitcase may not roll properly.

Tape can also leave sticky residue that attracts more dust.

Cleaning the wheels and removing trapped hair is still the best way to care for luggage.

Key facts

Hack
Wrap tape around the section of the wheel that touches the ground.
Study date
2025
Researcher
InsureandGo, with microbiologist Amy-May Pointer
Sample
10 suitcases examined at a London airport train station
Wheel measurement
About 400 colony-forming units per 3 sq cm
Comparison
Nearly 58 times the public toilet seat comparison figure
Caution
Loose or thick tape may interfere with wheel movement and leave adhesive residue.

Sources

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