Handbag Care Tips – The Leather Laundry
Handbag Care Tips
Handbag Care Tips – The Leather laundry – Maintenance of your leather handbags is very crucial! Having spent a fortune on them, it is but natural to get concerned about the well-being of your leather carriers! Below are some storage and preservation tips to follow–
HOW TO CLEAN
– The general principle is simple: remove dirt build-up by wiping down with a cleaner made specifically for the leather in question.
– Most labels like Bally and Coach have their in-house leather care range, or they will endorse a particular brand, as in the case of Mulberry, so always ask the boutique assistant for care tips and recommended products.
– Remember the hardware. Some bags have precious metal-plated buckles or chains. Always ask the boutique assistant for care recommendations.
– Every other day, give your bag a brisk sweep with a soft dry cloth—this won’t take more than a few minutes, but will go miles towards preserving the appearance of your leather.
HOW TO CONDITION
– Think of conditioning as moisturiser for your leather, which will dry out over time. To prevent flaking and wrinkling, dab a dollop of conditioner on a soft cloth and rub gently all over.
– Try mink or neatsfoot oil, which simulate and supplement the natural oils of leather. Leave on for 10 minutes, then wipe off the excess. Dry thoroughly in an airy room.
– Condition every month or so to keep your leather looking its shiny best.
HOW TO WEATHERPROOF
– Leather is permeable and can never be entirely waterproof, so avoid toting your favorite Givenchy Nightingale in bad weather. Nonetheless, there are beeswax creams which function as a barrier against water.
– Word of caution: beeswax may alter the hue of dyed leather, so test first on an inconspicuous corner.
– A more breathable but less effective alternative: a spray protectant, which is virtually invisible on your bags.
HOW TO STORE
– Stash your bag in its original dustbag and fill it with stuffing—use butter paper, never newspaper, which will smear— to maintain its shape.
– Keep the dustbagged product in its original box, along with packets of silica gel so your bag doesn’t get damp.
– Air once every two weeks to halt the growth of mold.
– Rotation is key. Everyday use of your bag will wear it out, so switch things up every month.
SOME FINAL TIPS
– Let water spills dry naturally. High-heat measures like using a hairdryer will only cause the skin to crinkle beyond salvage.
– Prevent color transfer by consciously resisting the urge to rest your bag against your jeans. Bring it back to the boutique immediately if your bag gets stained.
Happy November!
Source: luxury-insider.com
