10 Simple Ways to Keep Your Handbag Looking Beautiful for Longer
A leather handbag is more than just a fashion accessory—it’s a symbol of sophistication and elegance. Whether you own a luxury brand piece or a meticulously handcrafted design from PurseAura, proper care is essential to maintain its beauty, softness, and original color over time.
Let’s explore the best tips for keeping your leather bag in perfect condition for years to come!
Stuff Your Leather Bag with Paper
Did you know that stuffing your leather bag with paper is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to maintain its shape and quality? Not only does it help preserve the bag’s original structure, but it also absorbs moisture, preventing mold and humidity from damaging the leather.
Use Silica Gel Packs for Moisture Control
When you purchase a leather bag, manufacturers often include silica gel packs to help preserve the bag’s quality. If your bag didn’t come with these, you can easily buy silica gel packs and place them inside your bag. Be sure to remove all items from the bag, then zip it up and store it in a dry, cool place. The silica gel will absorb any excess moisture, keeping your bag in top condition.
Store Your Bag on a Shelf
When you visit well-organized showrooms, you might notice that bags are often placed on shelves rather than hung on hooks or left on the floor. This isn’t just for aesthetic appeal—it helps distribute the bag’s weight evenly, reducing stress on the straps and minimizing the risk of deforming, peeling, or damaging the edges. If you’re a handbag enthusiast, consider investing in some shelves to properly display and store your bags, ensuring they stay in top condition for longer!
Avoid Placing Sharp Objects Inside the Bag
For leather bags, sharp objects are a big no-no as they can significantly damage the product. To prevent issues such as peeling, tears, or scratches, avoid placing items like knives, scissors, nail clippers, or pins inside your bag. Keeping your bag free from sharp objects will help maintain its pristine condition for longer.
Regularly Clean Your Bag the Right Way
No matter how carefully you store your leather bag or how rarely you use it, regular cleaning is recommended at least once or twice a year to maintain its longevity. You can take your bag to a professional cleaning service for expert care, or if you prefer to do it yourself, you can easily clean it at home. Simply spray a small amount of soap on a sponge, gently wipe in circular motions, then use a tissue to dry the bag. Afterward, store it as usual to keep it in top condition.
Eliminate Mold from the Surface of Your Bag
If your bag develops mold after not being used for a while, you can dilute alcohol or vinegar and apply it to a soft cloth. Gently wipe the affected areas and surrounding spots. Once done, place the bag in a well-ventilated area. Note, do not use water to clean afterward, as the alcohol and vinegar solution will evaporate on its own. Using water may worsen the mold issue.
Do Not Wash Leather Bags with Water or Detergents
Leather is highly sensitive to water and detergents. If exposed to water or cleaning agents, leather can crack, peel, and the lifespan of your bag will decrease. Instead, if your leather bag gets dirty, you can use a sponge, apply a small amount of leather conditioner, and gently wipe the stained area until it’s clean.
Do Not Expose Your Bag to High Temperatures
Many people have the habit of washing and drying their bags outside in the sun, but this is a huge mistake. Exposing your bag, especially leather bags, to high temperatures can significantly damage its quality. Therefore, avoid leaving your bag in direct sunlight, drying it with heat, or placing it on top of appliances like the refrigerator or TV stand. Keep your bag in a cool, dry place to maintain its condition.
Remove Stubborn Stains on Your Bag
For bags that are used frequently, it’s inevitable that they will get dirty. However, if you don’t notice the stain in time and it sets in, there’s a simple trick to get rid of it. First, ensure your bag is completely dry. Then, sprinkle some talcum powder or baby powder onto the stained area and leave it overnight. The next morning, use a dry cloth to gently wipe the area, and you’ll see the stain disappear magically.
Avoid Storing Your Bag in a Closet or Wrapping It in Plastic
While it may seem like a good idea to protect your bag from dust by wrapping it in plastic, this is actually not the best way to store your bags. Handbags need a dry and well-ventilated environment to maintain their quality over time. Wrapping them in plastic prevents moisture from escaping, which can lead to the bag deteriorating, fading, and becoming more prone to mold and peeling. If you do want to wrap your bag in plastic, make sure to insert some paper or a silica gel bag inside to absorb any moisture before sealing it.
A well-cared-for leather handbag can last for years and even become more beautiful with time. With these simple tips, you can keep your favorite purse looking brand new and elegant for longer.
To elevate your style, explore our stunning collection of handcrafted bags at PurseAura, where luxury meets affordability. Find your next favorite accessory today!
