We have previously emphasized the importance of diligent cleaning and regular maintenance for both PU and genuine leather bags to maintain their lustrous and elegant appearance. The question arises: what is the most effective method to clean these leather accessories and ensure their enduring beauty? Don't worry, we've got you covered! Here's a super easy 3-step routine you can do on the regular:
Step1: Dust it off:
- Use a dry cloth or soft brush to remove surface dust.
- Giving your bag a quick brush with a horsehair brush every week or two.
If you don't have a horsehair brush, you can use a soft-bristled toothbrush instead. However, be careful not to apply too much pressure to avoid pushing dust deeper into the leather grain.
Step2: Clean it up:
- Gently wipe the bag with a damp, non-alcoholic cloth. Alcohol can cause significant damage to both synthetic leather and genuine leather.
- Then, wipe the entire bag again with a clean cloth.
If there are any stubborn stains on the bag, you can use a leather-specific cleaner. For PU leather bags, use a synthetic leather cleaner like cream cleaner while genuine leather bags should be cleaned with a dedicated leather cleaner. Make sure not to use cream cleaner on genuine leather bags!
Step3: Condition it:
Every 1 to 2 months, use a clean white cloth to apply a small amount of leather conditioner evenly across the surface of the bag. For PU leather bags, use a dedicated PU leather conditioner. For genuine leather, it’s recommended to use conditioners containing animal-based oils, such as neatsfoot oil or mink oil.
Leather Bag Care Tips: How to Tackle 6 Common Types of Stains on Leather Bags
When using your bag daily, you may encounter issues like mold on the surface, stains from loose lipstick or makeup, spilled water or drinks inside, fading, or scratches. How should you deal with these common problems? This article will break down the solutions for you step-by-step.
1. Mold on Bags
Use a soft cloth dampened with warm water and wring it out before gently wiping off the moldy areas. Then, place the bag in a cool, shaded area to air dry. If the mold cannot be completely removed, consult a professional leather cleaning service. After cleaning, remember to prevent future mold growth by applying leather conditioner to seal out moisture and placing a desiccant inside the bag before storing it in a dry box.
Lipstick and Makeup Stains
Dampen a soft cloth with warm water, wring it out, and gently wipe off the lipstick or cushion foundation stains. Use a dry cloth to wipe the bag again. If the stains remain, seek help from a professional leather cleaner.
Water Stains
First, use a dry soft cloth to absorb any remaining moisture. For residual water stains, use a leather-specific cleaner and a soft brush to gently scrub them away. After cleaning, apply leather conditioner to prevent moisture from penetrating again.
Oil Stains
Use a dry soft cloth to absorb the surface oil, then sprinkle a small amount of talcum powder over the stain. If this doesn't work, try using a dedicated leather cleaner with a soft cloth or brush to treat the stain.
Leather Fading
Many brands offer color-matching leather dyes or color restorers. Choose the appropriate shade, and apply the dye using a dry cloth or a soft flat brush, following the leather grain in a consistent direction. After applying the dye, let it air dry for about 30 minutes before applying leather conditioner
Scratches or Imprints on Leather
For minor scratches or imprints, apply a small amount of leather conditioner to the affected area. For deeper marks, use a leather color restorer. If neither works, consult a professional leather repair service.
4 Common Questions About Leather Bag Care
