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how to care for leather bags
by Olga Vasilevsky on October 06, 2021
by Aumi4 on October 06, 2021
How to keep your leather goods looking new
Caring for leather is one of the top questions we get asked and most people are surprised to learn it doesn't have to be difficult or time consuming.
However, if you don't have time to give your product the attention it deserves, there are some general guidelines that can keep your leather looking its best. Here's our guide on how to care for your leather products.
Protection :
Protection is imperative when caring for leather. Protecting your leather, in general, will protect it from damaging and prevent excessive fading and wearing. You can use some type of conditioner /protector or beeswax cream, or both. This all depends on the leather type and there are a lot of products available on-line or in stores. The best approach to take with caring for your leather product is prevention first. If you find any scratches, wear marks or discolouration then these need to be dealt with before they spread and cause more damage. The finish of your leather has an effect on how much protection is needed so it's important that you follow recommended treatments for what you have invested in.
Black & Ebony:
Black and ebony leathers are forgivable in that the dark color can mask a multitude of sins. Still, it's important to keep your black leather items clean and cared for. Regular gentle brushing and semi-regular cleaning with a damp cloth will keep your accessories in tip top condition.
Cream & Ivory:
A white bag worn with indigo jeans for example, may be subject to color transfer, so care must be taken to keep the finish looking its best. Lighter-toned leather is more susceptible to visible wear and tear.
Make sure all dust gets removed with a soft cloth. Subtle marks may be scrubbed off with a solution of soap flakes and warm water but more serious stains will need a bit more work.
To remove any stubborn stains, use methylated spirits or rubbing alcohol while absorbent powders like cornstarch or baking powder can be used to deal with oil and grease. After you get your bag cleaned, apply a protective spray to keep from getting more marks or stains.
Deep Shine & patent:
Scuffs can ruin the luxury appeal of a patent or high-gloss accessory; however, they can be removed with little effort. If your patent bag, purse or accessory seems a bit dull, a wipe down with a damp cloth may be all you need to remove any dirt that has built up and restore the original shine.
If there are larger, more concentrated scratches to deal with, you can use specially formulated patent leather cleaners. Alternatively, simple household products can be just as effective: apply petroleum jelly or olive oil on the affected area with a damp cloth, let sit for a few minutes, then gently buff away.
Saffiano
Handcrafted by hand, Saffiano leather has an iconic texture finish. This unique stitched pattern combined with the wax treatment makes it extremely durable and stain-resistant. To avoid damaging the special finish, only clean your Saffiano leather goods with a soft, damp cloth or a dedicated leather cleaning solution.
Smooth
Taking particular care is required to protect the finish of smooth leather. Therefore, avoid using harsh cleaning methods. Start by brushing with a soft bristle brush and wiping away any excess dust or debris with a cotton or microfiber cloth. Next, nourish the surface with a gentle leather conditioner, taking care to test it on an inconspicuous spot before applying.
Textured leather
In clean-up of textured leathers like lizard, pebble, and silk print,, it’s important to work with the grain. While traditional cleaning methods like soap and water and specialized leather cleaners can be used, it’s critical to thoroughly remove any product buildup from the pores and cracks following cleaning. This can be accomplished by gently buffing away any residue using a soft bristled brush.
Buffalo hide & snakeskin
Buffalo leather and snakeskin are prized for their exquisite textures and should be meticulously cleaned accordingly. Repeated friction can cause the fur and scales to fade, so treat the surface with care using a non-abrasive cloth and work along the grain of the texture.
A wet cloth can remove dirt and grime from snake skin, but don’t overdo it by soaking the skin in water and ensuring that you let it dry naturally, away from any artificial heat.
Buffalo skin may need a light brushing in the direction of the fur to loosen any buildup of dirt. Once clean, store your accessories in a dry location far away from direct heat sources.
Suede and nubuck
Water and oil could stain suede and nubuck, so dry cleaning methods are advised.
Begin by cleaning with a suede brush, lifting off any dirt or dust that may remain and, if more assistance is needed, applying a short burst of steam. Lightly stained or greasy spots can be pulled out by applying corn flour overnight and then gently brushing off any excess. For more stubborn stains, it’s recommended to use a dedicated suede or nubuck cleaner.
Printed leather can be treated just like any other; dusted with a soft brush or cleaned with a damp cloth. However, colour-based creams and polishes should be avoided as they may alter the print's appearance. Conditioners or protector sprays should be tested on an inconspicuous area, such as a corner or under a pocket flap first.
Velvet
Velvet is a luxurious fabric that should be treated with the greatest care. Wet conditions should be avoided and water should not be used during the cleaning process. Accidental spills can be cleaned up with a clean, dry cloth. You may smooth out the pile with a soft brush or palm of your hand but make sure you don't vigorously rub the surface. For more severe stains and thorough cleaning we recommend using a professional dry cleaning service
