Leather Handbags – Maintenance Tips

Leather Handbags

Leather handbags often represent a sizeable investment in your wardrobe. Some fine, italian leather handbags can run into the thousands of dollars.  But with the right care and maintenance, a leather handbag can last for a long time and become a wardrobe staple.  Preparing a leather handbag for use is likewise important.  Even when you first bring your new leather handbag home, it is important to condition it and clean it as the bag can sit on a retailer’s shelf waiting to be purchased and dry out a bit.  Keeping it oiled will keep the leather supple.  Ladies leather handbags can be expensive, but with these simple steps, they will last for years, looking as good as the day that they were purchased.  Let’s not forget the men.  Men’s leather handbags are becoming more and more popular.  For either gender, you always want to present yourself  in the best light possible.  The handbag is extension of you.  Keep your bag clean and conditioned and it will reflect your caring personality.

Cleaning

The way that you clean leather handbags depends on the type of leather.  A suede leather handbag can be cleaned with a special tool called a suede eraser.  To clean, you’ll simply rub the eraser gently against the dirty section of leather.  For finished or patent leather handbags, first use a damp cloth or a soft brush to clean.  Wipe across the material to remove dirt. Never immerse the bag in water or use a cloth that is so moist that it leaves the leather looking wet.  If your leather bag does get wet, wipe it off quickly as leather is subject to mildew and staining from moisture.  Don’t use a blow dryer to dry it off, as this will only dehydrate the leather.

Conditioning

Conditioning your handbag will protect it from damage.  Black leather handbags do not hide cracks and scratches very well.  Proper conditioning will minimize these cracks and scratches.  Whatever color leather bag you have, conditioning will help.  Be certain that you use the appropriate conditioning product for the type of leather bag you have.  Suede leather and patent leather are usually conditioned using a special protective spray.  Finished and brushed leather handbags may need conditioning cream, like saddle soap, followed up by a protective spray.

Conditioning products should be used when you first purchase your leather handbag, and regularly thereafter.  This will prevent cracking, drying, mildew, and stains.  Apply the product according to the manufacturer’s instructions, which typically means applying the product using a rag and avoiding applying it directly onto the leather itself.  This can cause staining.

Storing Leather Handbags

Don’t store your leather handbags in a plastic bag.  Plastic can emit chemicals that damage the leather and ruin your bag.  Most designer leather handbags come with a storage bag made of natural and breathable materials.  If not, use a pillowcase instead.  This will keep the handbag from collecting dust and dirt while allow air to flow freely around the bag.  Store your leather handbags in a dry, cool, and dark place to prevent them from fading and to discourage the growth of mildew.