I am on a quest for the perfect duffel bag for my situation. This bag almost meets all my requirements except for a very important one: it's not washable. I know that it is not recommended to wash almost all luggage (even duffel bags), but my place in San Francisco is so prone to developing mold that I can't own luggage that isn't easily cleaned (hard-sided luggage, backpacks/duffels that can be thrown in the wash - with care of course). This particular bag contains metal (the hooks and adjuster of the shoulder strap and loops for the shoulder strap hooks). I'd rather not risk damaging my washer. I'm most definitely going to return this item.