Will be good as new: how to clean leather purses and handbags

Leather accessories will never go out of style. This material is durable, hardy, and always looks great. However, items like bags or wallets get dirty quickly. They are in constant contact with hands and the environment, which leaves marks and stains on them.

But is it possible to clean a bag or wallet in a way that will restore its cleanliness without damaging it? Experts say yes. OBOZ.UA has collected the best tips.

How to clean a leather bag

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when caring for a leather bag is applying too much care product to it or over-moisturizing the skin. This can lead to stains and damage to the texture of the material. To avoid this, always apply water or a cleaning agent to the fabric first, and then treat the bag with it.

In this case, you will be surprised how effective plain, clean water will be. As a rule, it is enough to restore the bag to its original appearance. Just dampen a cloth or paper towel and wipe the bag well. If it is very dirty, use a little dishwashing detergent. Dissolve a few drops in warm water and treat the item with this solution.

This method will work for patent leather, vegetable tanned leather, and aniline leather. However,, if you are unsure about the safety of your product, first test it on an inconspicuous area to make sure you won't damage the leather or cause discoloration. Finally, wipe your bag or wallet with a clean, damp cloth to wipe off any soap residue.

How to remove stains from a leather bag

Unsightly stains can remain on your bag even with regular cleaning. If they are fresh, gently blot the stained area with a clean, dry cloth to absorb the substance that left the stain. Avoid friction as this can spread the dirt or damage the leather.

To remove more stubborn stains, start with the soap and water treatment described above. If it doesn't work, use the power of baking soda. Apply a small amount to the stain and leave it on for several hours or overnight. In the morning, gently brush the baking soda off with a soft brush. Baking soda absorbs dirt, so it can clean your bag even with this simple passive method.

If the stain still persists, you may need to use professional leather cleaners. You can also contact a workshop to restore the item.

What not to use for cleaning bags and wallets

Since leather can be susceptible to damage if not properly cared for, beware of certain products. For example, baby wipes can damage the leather. They can dry out the material and cause it to crack.

You should also avoid using cleaning products based on bleach, ammonia, acetone or alcohol as they are too aggressive for leather both natural and artificial. They can destroy the layer of protective oil or discolor the material. In addition, do not use household cleaners that are not specifically designed for leather.

And never dry leather items near heat sources. A hair dryer, radiator or direct sunlight will dry out the material. It is better to put the bag or wallet in the shade in a room with a normal temperature and let it dry naturally.

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