How To Make Luggage Wheels Smoother

Luggage wheels can often be a bit wobbly and rough. This can make maneuvering your suitcase around a challenge, and it can also lead to a lot of noise. Fortunately, we compiled our research on the few things you can do to make your luggage wheels smoother. 

The good news is that there are a few easy steps that you can take to maintain the wheels and make luggage wheels spin more smoothly.

  • Clean the Wheels
  • Check the Wheels for Damage
  • Apply Lubricant
  • Ensure Wheels are Properly Aligned 

In this blog post, we'll walk you through three simple tips for improving your luggage wheel experience. Keep reading to learn more!

Close up luggage wheel, How To Make Luggage Wheels Smoother?

What’s the Best Way to Make Your Luggage Wheels Smoother?

If you've ever had your luggage wheels catch on something and send your bag careening into a wall or another person, you know how frustrating it can be. Luckily, there are a few easy ways to keep your luggage wheels running smoothly. 

Clean the Wheels

Start by keeping wheels clean. Dirt and debris can build up on the wheels and cause them to stick or skid. 

To start, you will need to gather a few supplies. You will need a soft cloth, some mild soap, and some water. Once you have everything that you need, you can start by wetting the cloth with the soap and water.

Then, simply wipe down each wheel, being careful to not get any water on the rest of the luggage. Once all of the wheels are clean, dry them off with the cloth and you are finished.

With just a few minutes of effort, you can clean your luggage wheels and make them spin more smoothly.

Check the Wheels for Damage

Check the Wheels for Damage  - Broken traveling luggage wheel at the airport ,

Take a close look at the wheels themselves. Look for any cracks or chips in the plastic or metal.

If you see any damage, it's likely that the wheel will need to be replaced. If the damage is minor, however, you may be able to buff it out with a pencil eraser.

Apply Lubricant

Anyone who has ever wrestled with a heavy piece of luggage knows the frustration of wheels that catch or stick. You can apply a small amount of lubricant to the wheels to help reduce friction. 

WD-40 can help to make your luggage wheels smoother and easier to roll. Simply apply a small amount of WD-40 to a clean cloth and wipe it over the wheels. The WD-40 will help to lubricate the wheels and make them less likely to stick or catch. 

In addition, it will help to protect the wheels from rust and corrosion. 

For best results, apply WD-40 to your luggage wheels before each trip. With regular care, your luggage wheels should remain smooth and trouble-free for many years to come.

Buy lubricant on Amazon. 

Ensure Wheels are Properly Aligned

Ensure Wheels are Properly Aligned - Premium red travel suitcase with wheels, bottom side.

If the wheels are out of alignment, they will be more likely to catch on something and cause your luggage to tip over. 

So, check the axle connecting the wheel to the rest of the suitcase. This should be straight and free of any bends or breaks. If it's damaged, it will need to be replaced.

By following these simple tips, you can help keep your luggage wheels running smoothly for years to come.

How to Protect Your Luggage Wheels?

How to Protect Your Luggage Wheels  - close up Wheel luggage suitcase

Travel can be tough on your luggage, and one of the most vulnerable parts of your bag is the wheels. Even the best-made suitcase can suffer from broken or damaged wheels after a long journey. 

Fortunately, there are a few simple things you can do to help protect your luggage wheels and keep them in good condition. 

First, invest in some high-quality wheel covers. They may seem like an unnecessary expense, but they can help to protect your wheels from scratches, dirt, and debris. 

Second, be mindful of how you handle your bag. Try to avoid bumping it or setting it down too hard, as this can damage the wheels. 

Finally, make sure to check the condition of your wheels regularly. If you see any cracks or damage, don't hesitate to get them repaired or replaced. 

With a little care and attention, you can keep your luggage wheels rolling smoothly for years to come.

How Do You Fix a Broken Luggage Wheel?

How Do You Fix a Broken Luggage Wheel - Broken luggage wheel

You're about to head out on vacation when you notice one of the wheels on your luggage is broken. Don't worry, it's an easy fix. 

Replacement Wheels

One of the easiest methods is to simply replace the wheel. Once you have the replacement wheel, simply attach it to the axle and you should be good to go.

  1. First, remove the wheel from the luggage by unscrewing the axle. 
  2. Next, take the wheel to a local luggage or repair shop to have it replaced. 
  3. Once you have a new wheel, reattach it to the luggage by screwing the axle back into place. 

With a few quick steps, you'll have your luggage functioning like new again and be ready to hit the road.

Epoxy Patch

Another option is to patch the existing wheel. This can be done with a strong adhesive, such as clear epoxy. 

Simply apply the epoxy to the broken area and allow it to dry. Once it is dry, the wheel should be as good as new. 

No Wheels or New Luggage

Finally, if neither of these options is possible, it is still possible to use the bag without wheels. Simply place the bag on its side and carefully roll it along as you travel. 

While this method is not ideal, it will still allow you to get where you need to go.

If you can't find a replacement wheel, or if your luggage is too old and the wheels are no longer manufactured, you may need to purchase a new piece of luggage.

In any case, it's always important to have a backup plan when traveling so that you're not stranded without your belongings.

Can You Buy Replacement Luggage Wheels?

Luggage Wheels Replacement

While many people choose to buy luggage with wheels included, there are some instances in which you may need to purchase replacement wheels. Maybe you lost a wheel on your trip or it got damaged beyond repair. 

Regardless of the reason, you'll be happy to know that replacement luggage wheels are available for purchase. 

You can find them online or, in some cases, you can contact the seller of your luggage directly and purchase them that way.

This can be done by taking the bag to a local luggage repair shop, or by ordering a replacement wheel online. Try to find a replacement wheel that is the same size and model as the one that fell off. You can usually find these at most luggage stores or online.

 So, if you're in need of replacement luggage wheels, don't worry - you have options!

Get wheel replacement on Amazon. 

How Often Do Your Wheels Need to Be Replaced?

While luggage wheels are designed to be durable, they will eventually need to be replaced. Depending on how often you travel and how much weight your luggage typically carries, you may need to replace your wheels sooner than later. 

If you notice that your wheels are starting to show signs of wear and tear, it's best to replace them sooner rather than later. After all, you don't want your luggage to fall apart in the middle of a trip!

With a little care and regular maintenance, your luggage wheels should last for many years to come.

Final Words

Close up luggage wheel

Although you can't completely stop your luggage wheels from getting scratched and dirty, you can make them smoother. By following the tips in this post, you'll be able to extend the life of your luggage wheels and keep them running like new ones for as long as possible.

To get tips on your luggage bags, see our posts below:

Are Samsonite Suitcases Waterproof?

Can I Buy A Luggage Lock At The Airport?