Carl Friedrik Product FAQs

Will my suitcase get scratched?

Our suitcases are not scratch proof so marks and scratches are expected with normal use.

The easiest way to prevent your polycarbonate luggage set from scratching is by applying a protective coating. The coating works by forming a protective surface layer, making it harder for scratches to penetrate the surface. Before applying, ensure the protective coating is compatible with polycarbonate.

You can also use Luggage Covers to protect your luggage further.

Do your suitcases fit inside each other?

Yes, our Carry-On and Carry-On Pro fit inside both the Check-In and Large Check-in, and our Check-In fits inside the Large Check-In.

I have locked myself out of my suitcase, what should I do?

If you have locked yourself out of your suitcase, we recommend running all possible combinations from 0-0-0 to 9-9-9. This can take about 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can purchase a TSA master key from an online retailer.

Where should I store my luggage?

We recommend storing luggage in a cool, well-ventilated place avoiding direct sunlight, high temperatures or damp environments. Please refrain from resting heavy objects on the exterior.

What other steps can I take to ensure the longevity of my luggage?

As you travel, your luggage will inevitably suffer some wear and tear, but we also recommend regular care for your items so they remain your trusted companions for a lifetime of travel.

When your luggage isn’t in use, we recommend keeping it in the cotton dust bag provided to prevent your suitcase from accumulating dirt and dust.

Does my suitcase come with a compression pad?

Each suitcase comes with one compression pad already included.

How often do you clean luggage?

Our advice is to clean your luggage after every trip you take. If, for example, your suitcase hasn’t been used in the past six months, then it’s also worthwhile cleaning the interior and exterior to keep it looking fresh and counteract germs.

Wipe away minor stains with a damp microfibre cloth. For more stubborn stains, try applying upholstery shampoo and rubbing it into the affected area and wiping down.

Here are some additional cleaning tips:

Interior
Use a vacuum cleaner with an edge nozzle or a handheld vacuum to remove any dust, dirt, and debris that may have built up, making sure not to forget any pockets inside.

Exterior
Wipe down the wheels and handle of your suitcase, and aim to store it on an elevated surface. Whether you have soft or hard luggage, the disinfectant you use is the same. Either hydrogen peroxide or rubbing alcohol can be used to wipe the entire suitcase down, ensuring you thoroughly dry the luggage afterwards to prevent staining.

It’s also worthwhile wiping down handles, hand grips and the wheels of your luggage with disinfecting wipes.

Does it come with a laptop pocket?

There is no laptop compartment but there are two open pockets on one side and a zip pocket on the other.

Do I need a luggage tag?

A luggage tag serves numerous purposes at the baggage claim and elsewhere.

The most obvious benefit is you become contactable should your suitcase go astray. While it’s true the airline luggage tag serves the same purpose, these flimsy paper strips are prone to water damage and tears, and can easily come off during transit.

Furthermore, airlines tend to place untagged hand luggage in the check-in hold when they overbook flights, making it a nightmare to track down.

The airport isn’t the only place you could lose your bag. From train stations to bus depots and ferry terminals, your suitcase could get misplaced at any transportation hub. As these facilities typically lack a sophisticated barcode scanning system, the luggage tag offers the best chance of reuniting with your suitcase.

Another bonus is the baggage tag differentiates your suitcase from the hundred others on the carousel. A tag lets you identify your luggage and reduces the chance of a stranger accidentally wandering off with your belongings.

Finally, a refined leather luggage tag adds a sophisticated touch to your bag.

How to put on a luggage tag

Open the buckle on the luggage tag. Slide the tag onto the luggage handle. Close the buckle securely around the handle.

What is Vachetta Leather?

Vachetta leather is a type of full-grain, vegetable-tanned leather made from cow hides.

One of the most notable characteristics is the hide’s ageing process. As time passes, the colour almost always darkens – or begins to develop a patina – ensuring your piece remains unique. This means that no two bags will look exactly the same as each will have its own distinctive characteristics.

Leather care tips

We recommend using either unscented and alcohol-free wipes or a leather cream. The Carl Friedrik Leather Cream is designed specifically for Vachetta leather and will give a uniform finish, while also ensuring that it is both nourished and protected. Generally, any leather balm or wax with only natural ingredients will work well.

While using wipes will allow you to keep on top of any dust or dirt that has settled on the bag, leather cream is the best conditioner for Vachetta leather.

What is nubuck?

In a nutshell, nubuck is a premium velvety leather type made by sanding down the outer-facing layer of an animal’s hide.

A tannery separates the outermost layer from the hide using industrial tanning machinery. A specialised leather worker then sands the outer grain-side surface to shorten the protein fibres and create an appealing type of velvet-like napped leather.

The result? A resilient yet soft leather that is reminiscent of suede.

Once sanding is done, the tannery can dye and treat nubuck for a smooth finish. At times, tanneries forgo this step as some manufacturers prefer working with leather that has imperfections, believing it adds character to the final product.

Nubuck care tips

There are a number of things you can to do maintain nubuck leather, including regular brushing, waterproofing and treating your product with a waterproof spray. Ensure all these tools or treatments are nubuck-specific. What works for one leather might not work for another.

Nubuck cleaning tips

A basic nubuck leather care kit includes a nubuck-specific brush, eraser and cleaner for the toughest stains.

Blot surface. Begin by blotting the affected area with a damp microfibre or nubuck-specific cloth. This should help to remove surface dirt. Avoid using heat to dry the surface, leave it to air dry overnight

Brush surface. Apply a soft-bristled nubuck brush to the surface in a circular motion to lift additional dirt from the nap. No more than a few seconds on each part of the nubuck

If required, apply a nubuck cleaner or eraser.Tougher stains can require the application of nubuck cleaner. Follow the instructions closely and always patch-test on a concealed area before cleaning the rest of your product. Nubuck erasers are a final resort for deep, embedded stains. It’s important to apply them very gently, as they can alter the texture of the nubuck

Revive surface. Leave the product for 24 hours. The next day, brush the nubuck in a soft, circular motion to revive the nap

Is it waterproof?

While nubuck has a fair degree of water resistance, you can make it less susceptible to the elements with the help of a waterproofing spray.

The spray you use must be nubuck-friendly, as the formula (and effectiveness) will vary depending on the leather. Treat 2-3 times yearly for extra protection in wet and cold months.