How to Clean Leather Bags?
A good leather purse is not just a fashion investment. It is a long term investment into an accessory that will last you a long time, that is if treated correctly. A high-quality leather purse made from high-quality leather that uses a natural tannin process like the Italian brand I Medici leather, strongly suggests that although your purse is going to last you a long time, you need to treat it with care in order for you to prevent it from losing its shape, staining, and other common problems.
You can keep your tote bags, clutches, hobos, briefcases and any other bag looking fine for a long time if you learn some good tricks. And those tricks include cleaning them properly with natural products and natural “remedies”.
What Leather is the Best?
Not every leather is the same. The better the quality the less you will have to spend time worrying about it. There are a few things to keep in mind when investing in a good leather bag. Price doesn’t always determine the value of an item, but rather the process of making the item. Italian leather has a reputation for being one of the best on the market because they possess all the qualities that will be mentioned below.
The most important factors of good leather include:
- Type of animal and their breed
- Location & climate (where the animal lives)
- Hide layer ( top-grain, full-grain, split)
- Process of tanning
So although the finest Italian leather bags are the best on the market because they make their products usually from very durable full-grain cowhide, and use the process of natural vegetable tanning that will make any leather products look very natural but also sleek, they too should be taken care of.
Cleaning Leather Bags
Before you start using your homemade cleaning products there are a few things you should do before you actually start cleaning your leather handbag. Never use ammonia or any bleach-based cleaners as they can damage the surface of your bag. And avoid getting it wet because water can stain leather (especially when in bright colors). Although some people recommend using dish soap and warm water, there are plenty of other better solutions.
Now that we have that out of the way first you should empty all of the pockets in your bag and shake it upside down in order to remove dust and debris. Then you can turn the lining inside out and clean it using a lint roller or another similar product, but if the lining can’t be pulled out you can always vacuum it.
So, what are some good homemade cleaning products you can use?
Rubbing Alcohol
If your bag has unfortunately suffered from ink stains or scuffs you can treat it with a nail polish remover or rubbing alcohol. Dip a cotton ball into either of these products and start lightly blotting the stain. Under no circumstances should you rub it because rubbing can make the ink spread. Blot in lightly until the stain is gone. After that, you can wipe it with a clean damp cloth and finish with drying it with a clean and dry towel.
Baking Soda
What is a household without baking soda? Baking soda and cornstarch are both creat solutions for oil and grease stains. For you to remove them you can sprinkle either of these products on the oily or greasy spot. Leave it for some time then start rubbing it gently with a damp cloth, then again let it sit overnight. Wipe off the excess powder with a soft cloth.
Baking Powder
If the inside of your bag has absorbed some foul smells you can get rid of them easily with baking powder. Put the container of the baking powder carefully inside your bag and then your bag into a dust bag or a pillowcase. Leve ti like that for 24 hours. The baking soda should be able to absorb any kind of nasty smell.
Conditioning Creams
Conditioning creams are fantastic for leather bags that aren’t stained or need any additional cleaning but are in need of moisturizing. Conditioning creams help, just like with any skin, moisture and nourish the leather. They won’t cause color changes, but you should always make sure it doesn’t have any harsh chemicals, so choose natural products. They will keep the fiber supple and will provide protection to the surface.
Additional Things You Should Have in Mind
- Even if you aren’t using your bag keep it stuffed to keep its shape better.
- Never use water on oil or grease stains.
- Treat ink marks as soon as possible.
- Don’t leave your bag in direct sunlight.
- Never use saddle soap
Conclusion
Even the best leather bags can sometimes get stained but that doesn’t have to worry you that much because there is always a solution. Even if some of these home remedies don’t work you can always take your handbag to a professional leather cleaner and your bag should be as good as new! But if you don’t want to waste money, always keep in mind that you should react immediately. The sooner you clean your leather bag, the better are the chances of them disappearing.
