Leather bags are one of the most elegant accessories you can use to up your style game. They are convenient, durable,, and great at making you look pulled together and ready to go anywhere – from work to shopping or even out with friends at night.
Unfortunately, one downside comes with leather bags – they need constant cleaning to maintain their quality and freshness! Don’t worry; however, premium leather products don’t have to be expensive or time-consuming anymore. It is simple and easy once you know how to do it.
Preparation is key
Before cleaning your leather bag, you must first determine if it is genuine or fake. First thing first: look closely for an embossed designer logo and label. If you don’t see one, use a magnifying glass and check for inconsistencies in construction. Genuine bags are crafted with such attention to detail that they are unlikely to have flaws in their quality.
Step 1 – Gather your materials
When cleaning your leather bag, you will need water, detergent, washing-up liquid, and an old toothbrush. The toothbrush is essential as it will give you a good level of scrubbing and ensure you are getting into all of those nooks and crannies. Cleaning products with fragrance should be avoided where possible, as they can cause discoloration. It is also important that you choose one that does not have bleach or whiteners added.
Step 2: Soak the bag in warm water.
Take your leather bag and place it in a bucket filled with warm water. Add in some dishwashing liquid, leave it for an hour,, and then take it out of water. Scrub off any stubborn spots using an old toothbrush dipped in warm, soapy water. Rinse off your cleaning solution with clean water.
Step 3: Use a suede brush to remove surface dirt.
This brush has fine, soft hair on one side that you can use to remove surface dirt from your bag. Carefully run it over all areas of your leather accessory. Pay close attention to corners and other hard-to-reach areas! Repeat as necessary.
Step 4: Use a toothbrush with oil soap solution on it.
First, use your toothbrush with an oil soap solution and brush out any dirt from deep in your bag’s pores. Then, pour a little water into another container and dip your toothbrush back into it before gently wiping it over your bag. This way, you are also washing out some of that soap you applied earlier. This helps to remove any soapy residue left behind by previous cleaning attempts. If there is still dirt left behind after brushing, carefully scrub it with another cloth dipped in warm water before leaving it to dry.
Step 5: Dry with a towel
Wipe away any excess water from your garment, then lay it flat and smooth on a towel. Leave it alone for a few hours until it has dried out and no more water appears on your cloth when you press gently. If you’re concerned about dirt or stains, feel free to blot with another towel as well.
Step 6: Condition with leather conditioner or Vaseline
Finally, use a soft cloth and some leather conditioner or Vaseline (petroleum jelly) to protect your new bag. Apply it in small amounts, rub it gently into all areas of your new bag, and allow it to dry. Then, follow up with another thin layer of conditioner or Vaseline for added protection. That’s all there is to it!
What type of detergent should be used to clean a leather bag?
When it comes to cleaning your cherished leather bag, selecting the right detergent is crucial to preserve its quality and appearance. Follow these guidelines for a spotless and well-maintained leather accessory:
Cleaning Essentials:
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mild Soap or Leather Cleaner | Gently removes dirt and stains. |
| Soft Cloth or Sponge | Applies the cleaning solution without abrasion. |
| Lukewarm Water | Mix with soap for a mild cleaning solution. |
| Towel or Air Dry | Ensures thorough drying post-cleaning. |
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process:
- Dust Off: Gently wipe off loose dirt and dust with a soft cloth.
- Prepare Cleaning Solution: Mix a small amount of mild soap or a specialized leather cleaner with lukewarm water.
- Test on Hidden Area: Before applying, test the cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area to ensure compatibility.
- Clean Surface: Using a sponge or soft cloth, apply the cleaning solution in circular motions, focusing on stained areas.
- Wipe and Dry: Wipe the leather with a clean, damp cloth to remove soap residue. Allow the bag to air-dry thoroughly.
Remember, consistency is key. Regular, gentle cleaning with the right detergent will keep your leather bag looking impeccable for years to come.
Conclusion
Leather bags are one of those accessories that you want to keep with you for years and even decades. One problem, though: they can get dirty! Here’s how to make your new or old leather bag look new again in no time.
