Investing in a designer or high-quality leather handbag is such a joy, whether brand new or bought from resale. A nice handbag is the ultimate addition to an outfit! However, to ensure that your prized possession retains its beauty and lasts for years to come, it requires proper care and maintenance. Here are some essential tips and tricks to help you take care of your designer leather handbag and keep it looking pristine.
Proper storage is key to maintaining the quality of your designer leather handbag. When not in use, store it in a dust bag or a breathable fabric pouch to protect it from dust, moisture, and excessive exposure to sunlight. Avoid keeping your handbag in plastic bags, as they can cause the leather to dry out.
Pro tip: We send our repaired handbags back home in a lovely sustainable cloth bag to help maintain the bag for as long as possible.
Regular Cleaning: Regular cleaning is essential to keep your handbag looking OH SO fresh. Before cleaning, always refer to the bag manufacturer's instructions. For day-to-day maintenance, wipe your handbag with a soft, dry cloth to remove any surface dirt or dust. For deeper cleaning, you can use a mild leather cleaner specifically formulated for designer leather goods. Gently apply the cleaner using a soft cloth or sponge, and wipe it off with a clean, damp cloth. Remember to test the cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area first. Some bags have different tanning processes, materials, etc. so cleaning isn't one size fit all. To take the guess work out of it, Coblrshop provides handbag cleaning & conditioning, starting at $175.
Condition Your Leather: Mummified leather. No thank you! Leather, over time, can become dry and lose its natural oils. Treat your bag like you would your beautiful skin. To prevent your handbag from being as dry as the Sahara, it's crucial to condition your handbag regularly. Choose a high-quality leather conditioner (here are some good options) and apply it using a clean, soft cloth. Rub the conditioner in gentle, circular motions, allowing it to penetrate the leather. Wipe off any excess conditioner and let your handbag air dry. Conditioning will not only restore moisture but also help maintain the leather's suppleness and prevent cracking (which is really hard to full repair). Like bag cleaning, some bags have different tanning processes, materials, etc. so conditioning isn't one size fit all. To take the guess work out of it, Coblrshop provides handbag cleaning & conditioning, starting at $175.
Avoid Excessive Moisture: Leather and water do not go well together. Protect your handbag from rain, spills, and excessive moisture. If your bag gets wet, gently pat it dry with a soft cloth and allow it to air dry naturally. Avoid using heat sources or hairdryers, as they can damage and overly dry the leather, causing irreparable damage. For added protection, consider using a water-resistant spray specifically designed for leather handbags.
Handle with Care: Treat your handbag with the love and care it deserves! Avoid placing it on rough or dirty surfaces, as they can scratch or stain the leather. Big shout out to the restaurants and bars out there that have purse hooks! When carrying your handbag, avoid overstuffing it (easier said than done for the bag ladies out there), as it can distort its shape.
Professional Maintenance: Consider Coblrshop maintenance for your designer leather handbag, especially if it requires extensive cleaning, repairs, or restoration. We are leather experts and have the knowledge and tools to handle delicate materials and can help restore your handbag to its original beauty.
With proper care, regular cleaning, conditioning, and handling, your handbag will continue to be a cherished accessory for years to come. Follow these tips, and enjoy the timeless elegance and luxury that your designer leather handbag brings to your fabulous style.
If you have a bag in need of some love we can also help with our premium handbag cleaning!