Leather bags require special attention when cleaning them. Also, if they are white, they get dirty more easily than darker ones, so they need regular maintenance to keep them in top condition. Use a microfiber cloth for weekly cleaning. Depending on the type, you can treat stains using a diluted mild detergent, white shoe polish, baby powder, or a professional leather cleanser. When not in use, store them in a place away from dust and out of direct sunlight. Finally, moisturize your skin by applying a special conditioner every two to three months.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Performing Routine Cleaning
Step 1. Wipe with a microfiber cloth once a week
If the bag looks clean enough, just wipe it with a dry microfiber cloth every week. To remove less visible traces of dirt, pour one or two drops of neutral soap into 230-350 ml of warm water. Lightly dampen the cloth in the solution and proceed with cleaning.
Step 2. Dry the surface immediately after wiping with the damp cloth
Once you have applied the neutral soap solution, dry it with a microfibre cloth so as not to leave traces of water. Avoid using paper towels. Microfiber is the ideal fabric for this operation because it does not crumble and quickly absorbs moisture.
Step 3. Gently cleanse following the grain of the skin
To avoid damaging the bag, always clean it gently and following the grain of the leather. Wipe the cloth with smooth and even movements. Make sure you clean the parts you touch the most, such as the handles, strap, and buckle. These areas get dirty more easily in contact with the sebum produced by the hands.
Step 4. Do not use bleach, vinegar and wet wipes
Some more common "home remedies" suggest the use of these products. However, avoid. They contain chemicals that can damage the surface of the skin, dehydrating it and promoting the formation of greasy spots.
Part 2 of 3: Remove Stains
Step 1. Clean the stain while it is still fresh
The faster you remove liquids that could accidentally fall on the bag, the lower the risk of your skin becoming irreparably stained. Absorb the stain immediately with a dry microfiber cloth. Maybe you might want to keep one on hand for emergencies.
Step 2. Try white shoe polish on stubborn stains
It is especially effective on those of ink, because they are very difficult to remove. You can buy this product in a shoe store or supermarket. Press the package so that a small amount comes out with which you will completely cover the stain. Gently spread it with the sponge applicator on the affected area.
Step 3. Apply talcum powder to oil stains
If you discover an oil stain, sprinkle some talcum powder to cover it completely. Leave it on overnight. The next day, brush off the residue with a dry microfiber cloth. At this point, the stain should be gone. If not, apply it again and wait another 24 hours.
- If the stain persists, you need to clean the bag professionally.
- Never use water on oil stains.
Step 4. Use a professional skin cleansing product on stubborn spots
You can buy it at the supermarket or in a shoe store. It will probably cost a little more than a solution you can make at home, but it will be much more effective. Apply it directly to the stain.
- In most cases, it is not necessary to rinse the bag because the skin absorbs the cleansing cream. Check the instructions to be sure.
- If you have to remove the product you have chosen once it has finished its action, proceed very gently and following the grain of the skin. If you scrub vigorously, there is a risk that the stain will penetrate deeper.
Part 3 of 3: Taking Care of the Bag
Step 1. Avoid touching it after applying the hand cream
It happens very often that after this operation, greasy spots form on the leather bags. When doing routine cleaning, especially check the handles and buckles, as oil from your hands can also dirty them.
Step 2. Keep it in a place away from dust when you are not using it
Dust can settle on the skin and ruin its appearance. If the bag comes with a protective bag (such as a branded one), store it inside when you're not using it. If not, an old pillowcase or laundry bag will do as well.
Step 3. Keep it out of direct sunlight
The sun's rays can damage the skin. So, be sure to store the bag in a non-humid area out of direct sunlight. Fill it with crumpled newspaper when not in use to keep it in its original shape.
Step 4. Apply a leather conditioner every two to three months
Wipe with a dry microfiber cloth to make sure you get rid of any dust and debris. Rub a dab of conditioner across the surface. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow your skin to absorb it. Gently remove it with another microfiber cloth.
- If you apply this product regularly, your skin will remain soft and will not tend to crack.
- You can buy leather and skin care products in shoe stores and at the supermarket.
