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Does RIMOWA scratch?

Built for a lifetime of journeys, our aluminium suitcases are a work in progress. They might be made by our hands, but they're defined by those who travel with them. Hallmarked with the inevitable dents and scratches of time, every RIMOWA is a vehicle for storytelling.



Yes, RIMOWA luggage—particularly the aluminum "Original" and "Classic" lines—scratches and dents easily, and this is actually an intentional part of the brand's heritage. The high-grade aluminum is designed to develop a "patina" of travel, where every scuff, scratch, and "ding" tells the story of your journeys. In 2026, RIMOWA enthusiasts often view a pristine, unblemished bag as a sign of a "rookie" traveler, while a heavily dented one is seen as a high-value badge of honor. If you prefer a bag that stays looking "brand new," the RIMOWA Essential (polycarbonate) line is the better choice, as it is much more resistant to permanent scratches and can "pop" back into shape after an impact. A peer-to-peer tip for 2026: if you own the aluminum version, you can minimize unsightly surface scratches by using a luggage cover during transit, but the characteristic "dents" from baggage handlers are inevitable. Most scratches can be buffed out slightly with a specialized metal polish, but the overall "weathered" look is considered the defining aesthetic of the world's most recognizable luxury suitcase.

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All you need are cotton pads. 70% is a purple alcohol and a damp microfiber cloth. Apply the alcohol to your cotton pad. then wipe the scratch away.

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That attention to detail extends to the materials themselves, too. Rimowa crafts its luggage from tough-as-nails anodized aluminum and ding-resistant polycarbonate for extra durability.

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A hardshell suitcase is typically better than a softside bag for protection (as long as your items are packed safely inside, too). However, all hardshell materials are prone to getting scuffed, scratched, or possibly cracked more so than with fabric suitcases.

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A simple way to guard against scratches and dings is to buy a protective sleeve to encase your bag. There are a slew of products to choose from, ranging from clear plastic sleeves to patterned fabric wrappers, and luggage manufacturers such as Hartmann are getting into this game.

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Our Lifetime Guarantee is covering all functional damage to your suitcase - including that caused by transports. This means we will repair it so you can keep your RIMOWA - and all its memories - for life. RIMOWA provides a lifetime guarantee for new suitcases purchased from July 25, 2022.

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The Original Cabin S luggage is one of the most emblematic offerings of the Rimowa label, which specializes in handmade baggage. This inimitable cult piece is sturdy, waterproof, and lightweight: the three qualities behind its reputation.

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Monos Check-In Large. For those looking to secure a sturdy and dependable checked baggage option, Monos' large Check-In is made out of aerospace-grade polycarbonate, known for its extreme durability, and features tough YKK zippers that can withstand every type of pull.

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The main drawback is that hard-shell luggage can't be twisted to fit into a small space. Hard-shell suitcases also require a lot of room to store at home, making them less convenient in this sense.

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If you like to have the ability to access small items on the go, a soft-sided style with exterior pockets might be best. But if you want a suitcase that you can easily wipe off (after that airport latte spill), a hard-sided option is worth considering.

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Aluminum is very strong, but it scratches and dents very easily, and it shows every little ding.

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