It starts with a scratch, maybe an unsightly wrinkle, or even a small stain—we’ve all been there. The handbag you once loved slowly becomes tainted, and before you know it, you’re left with a remnant of what once was. Neglecting the upkeep of your handbag is something that everyone’s guilty of, but if you’ve ended up having to let go of a purse you used to adore, then you now understand the importance of properly taking care of them.
Regardless if it’s a designer investment or a more affordable version, any handbag in your repertoire is worthy of a little TLC. That's why we tapped a few designers to share their tips on how to care for your handbags. Ahead, they fill us in on purse storage methods, cleaning hacks, and the best techniques for maintaining your handbag's shape.
Everyday Care
Looking after your leather goods starts with day-to-day care. By following just a few simple rules, you can avoid unnecessary wear and tear and extend the life of your accessories for years:
- Leather is a skin, and it can stretch. Avoid overfilling your handbag, purse or wallet to maintain its original silhouette
- Take extra care with leather items you use often. Take the time each week to wipe away dust and spots with a soft cloth or brush
- Scratches can detract from a flawlessly crafted piece. Take care to avoid contact with heavily embellished clothes, sharp surfaces, or chunky jewellery when you are out and about.
- Wet leather requires extra care, so if rain is forecast, remember to take an umbrella
Storage
You may be asking yourself how should I store my handbags? Storing your leather appropriately is one of the easiest ways you can prevent damage and maintain a high-quality finish:
- Store leather away from direct sunlight as this can cause fading
- Store handbags in a dust bag to avoid scratches
- Avoid using plastic bags, they prevent good ventilation
- Store leather away from artificial sources of heat, e.g. radiators can cause leather to dry and crack
Travel Bags
While leather travel bags are designed with durability and the wear and tear of travel in mind, there are a few easy steps you can take to preserve the quality and finish of your suitcase, cabin bag or weekend bag.
Before and after travel, when your bag is in your care, always stand it on its wheels or protective feet rather than on its side to minimise contact with the floor.
In transit, make use of a protective luggage cover in order to avert the possibility of scratches when your travel bag is in the hold or overhead compartment.
In between trips, empty your travel bag and store it in its protective bag in a spot that comfortably accommodates it without the need for folding handles or tightly packing it against any other accessories