Suitcase starts smelling like petrol (gasoline) when stored in the closet [closed]

I've noticed this with two pieces of luggage over the years, in different flats and closets entirely. When stored in an enclosed space, there's a noticeable smell similar to that of petrol (gasoline). I'm fairly sure the luggage hasn't come into contact with any such substance, at least not while it was in my hands.

After a few years with only occasional use, the plastic on one suitcase had become so brittle it simply shattered on opening. I assume this is related to the smell. Are there combinations of materials and designs that produce this kind of effect in suitcases? How can you avoid buying suitcases like this that become bad for traveling?