How to Clean and Care for a Leather Bag, According to Experts

From smashed powder compacts to rogue ink pens, everyday life can take a serious toll on a beloved bag. Luckily, industry insiders have shared the simple habits that can keep it looking fresh.

A good-quality leather handbag is a significant investment for many people, since you're not only splurging on something nice for yourself but also on a piece you expect to keep for years to come.

Still, as durable as quality leather may be, it requires some maintenance on your end. Charlotte Staerck, co-founder and retail director of the Handbag Clinic, agrees.

"Designer handbags are a big investment for many people, and some of the higher end brands such as Chanel, Hermès, and Louis Vuitton actually appreciate in value," Staerck explained.

"The pandemic has made a lot of people reconsider their values, with many questioning how they can enjoy fashion in a more responsible way," she continued. "Customers now actively want to reduce their waste by restoring or re-inventing an item so they can continue to enjoy it.

"The world has moved on from fast fashion. By restoring an item, you give it a second life," Staerck said.

So how often should you clean your bag? The answer largely comes down to how much wear it gets, though some experts recommend giving it a thorough refresh at least once a year to keep it in great condition. Staerck, however, takes a slightly different approach.

"Keeping a bag looking great is about regular maintenance rather than a quick fix," she noted, explaining that a bag carried daily benefits from some care every two to three months, whereas one reserved for weekends only needs attention roughly every nine months.

Using the right cleaning and protective products is also essential for proper upkeep. Your toolkit doesn't need to be elaborate: soft sponges and cloths, plus a dedicated brush for suede, will do the job, though a pre-packaged kit is a handy alternative.

For an at-home refresh, Staerck recommends first tackling both the lining and the exterior, gently working a cleanser suited to the bag's fabric or leather into the surface.

Let it sit for a few minutes before smoothing on a protective cream, giving the handles, corners, and other high-contact spots some extra care. When the cream has dried, polish away any residue. "This process takes no more than 15 minutes and could save you a fortune on future restoration," she shared.

Paler leathers, which tend to pick up marks easily, may benefit from a second or even third layer of protection, she warned. And on busy days, a quick swipe of the handles and other high-traffic areas with a cleaning wipe can go a long way.

Beyond that, Staerck also recommends giving your bag's interior just as much attention.

"The interior of your bag needs protecting just as much as the outside," she said. "Throwing makeup brushes, a smashed powder, lipstick that loses its lid, or an open pen into your bag causes the bag to become heavily stained on the interior."

Oily products leave behind marks that are especially stubborn to lift, which makes a makeup pouch with room for pens a smart buy. Another key consideration is making sure your bag holds its shape and is kept in the right envirnoment.

"When they're not in use, leather handbags should be stored away from any light source to protect the pigmentation and finish of the leather. Make sure the storage area is dry, as leather can mold in damp environments," advised Layla Sargent, founder of The Seam.

If your bag does suffer a spill, blot the affected area as soon as possible with a clean, dry cloth or tissue to soak up as much of the liquid as you can.

"Once you have removed excess liquid, blot the stain with a damp cloth or tissue using warm water only," Staerck explained. "Start at the outside of the stain and work inwards. This will stop the stain from spreading outwards."

Even a serious accident doesn't have to spell the end for your favorite purse. Before replacing it, consider handing it over to the pros, whether that's a specialist or your neighborhood cobbler or dry cleaner.