How to Clean and Maintain Your Away Aluminum Edge Trunk

Quick Answer

Clean your Away Aluminum Edge Trunk with a soft damp cloth and mild soap, then dry thoroughly to preserve the aluminum finish. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Routine

1. Step 1: Empty and Dust: Remove all contents from the trunk. Use a soft microfiber cloth to wipe away loose dust and debris from both the interior and exterior, paying attention to corners and edges. Skipping this step can grind dirt into the surface when you start wiping.
2. Step 2: Prepare a Gentle Cleaning Solution: Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water in a bowl. Dampen a clean microfiber cloth with the solution—do not soak it. Wring out excess water so the cloth is just slightly damp. Avoid using vinegar, bleach, or ammonia-based cleaners; they can discolor or damage the aluminum edge.
3. Step 3: Wipe the Exterior and Edges: Gently wipe the entire exterior, including the aluminum edges, with the damp cloth. Use light pressure and straight strokes along the edge lines. For stubborn smudges, let the soapy cloth sit on the spot for a few seconds before wiping again. Do not scrub in circles—this can create swirl marks on the aluminum surface.
4. Step 4: Clean the Interior: Wipe the interior lining with the same damp cloth. For any stains, use a soft-bristled brush (like a clean toothbrush) with the soapy solution to spot-clean. Blot with a dry cloth afterward. Never saturate the lining; excess moisture can lead to odors or mildew inside the trunk.
5. Step 5: Dry Completely: Use a separate dry microfiber cloth to buff the entire exterior, especially the aluminum edges, until no water spots remain. Leave the trunk open for 30 minutes to air-dry the interior fully. Water spots are more visible on aluminum than on matte plastic—drying immediately prevents them.
6. Step 6: Polish (Optional): For extra shine on the aluminum edges, apply a small amount of aluminum-safe polish (like a non-abrasive metal polish) to a soft cloth and buff gently. Test on a hidden area first. Skip this step if your trunk has a matte or brushed finish; polish can alter the texture.

Product Facts

• The Aluminum Edge Trunk: The Aluminum Edge Trunk from Away features aluminum edge construction for enhanced durability. The aluminum edges are more prone to visible smudges and require gentle, non-abrasive cleaning to avoid scratching the finish.