But fear not, my friends, because cleaning and maintaining leather bags is not rocket science. With a little bit of effort and the right techniques, you can keep your beloved bags looking as gorgeous as ever. So, allow me to spill the beans and share some simple tips and tricks for cleaning and maintaining genuine leather bags. Trust me, your bags will thank you for it!
1. Proper Storage
When not in use, it is best to store genuine leather bags in cotton bags. If you don't have suitable fabric bags, old pillowcases can also be used. Avoid storing them in plastic bags as the lack of airflow can cause the leather to dry out and become damaged. It is also recommended to stuff the bags with fabric, small pillows, or white paper to maintain their shape.Here are a few points to note:
Firstly, avoid stacking the bags on top of each other.
Secondly, if you have a cabinet for storing leather goods, make sure it is well-ventilated, and you can place a desiccant inside.
Lastly, unused genuine leather bags should be taken out periodically for oiling, maintenance, and air-drying to extend their lifespan.
2. Regular Weekly Cleaning
Leather has strong absorption properties, and some even have visible pores. It is best to develop a weekly cleaning and maintenance routine to prevent stains from forming. Use a soft cloth dampened with water and wrung out to repeatedly wipe the leather bag, then wipe it again with a dry cloth and leave it to air dry in a well-ventilated area.It's important to note that genuine leather bags should be kept away from water. If you happen to get caught in the rain or accidentally spill water on the bag, remember to immediately wipe it dry with a dry cloth and avoid using a hairdryer.
In addition, you can apply a small amount of Vaseline (or leather-specific conditioner) to a clean, soft cloth every month and wipe the surface of the bag to maintain the leather's "skin texture" and prevent cracking. It also provides a basic waterproof effect. After wiping, let it sit for about 30 minutes. Be careful not to apply too much Vaseline or conditioner to avoid clogging the leather pores and affecting breathability.
A. For patent leather, simply wipe it with a soft cloth. Its own gloss is sufficient and it is not prone to attracting dust.
B. For glossy leather, use a little leather conditioner on a soft cloth and gently rub it onto the leather.
C. For matte leather, a gentle wipe with a cloth is usually sufficient. If the dirt is severe, you can try gently wiping it off with a rubber eraser.
3. Immediate Stain Removal
If your genuine leather bag accidentally gets stained, you can use a cotton pad soaked in makeup remover oil to gently wipe the stained area, avoiding excessive force that may leave marks.As for the metal fittings on the bag, if they show slight signs of oxidation, you can use a silver polishing cloth or copper oil cloth to wipe them.
If you discover mold on the leather product and the situation is not severe, you can first wipe off the surface mold with a dry cloth and then spray 75% medical alcohol on another clean, soft cloth to wipe the entire leather item. After air drying in a well-ventilated area, apply a thin layer of Vaseline or conditioner to prevent the mold from recurring. If wiping off the surface mold with a dry cloth does not completely remove the mold spots, it means that the mold has penetrated deep into the leather. In this case, it is recommended to take the leather product to a professional leather care store for treatment.
4. Dealing with Scratches
If your leather bag has scratches, you can gently rub and push the area with your fingertips until the scratches fade along with the natural oils of the leather. If the scratches are still prominent, it is advisable to take the leather product to a professional leather care store for treatment.If the color fades due to scratches, you can first wipe the discolored area with a dry cloth, then apply a small amount of leather repair cream on a sponge and evenly apply it to the affected area. Let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes, then use a clean cotton cloth to wipe the area repeatedly.
5. Humidity Control
If your budget allows, using an electronic dehumidifier box to store genuine leather products is even better than a regular cabinet. Keeping the humidity level in the electronic dehumidifier box at around 50% relative humidity will preserve the leather goods in a dry environment without being excessively dry. If you don't have a dehumidifier box at home, you can use a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture and prevent excessive humidity in your home.
6. Avoid Contact with Rough and Sharp Objects
To keep genuine leather bags soft and comfortable, avoid overloading them and prevent them from rubbing against rough or sharp objects, which can cause damage.
Additionally, avoid exposing them to direct sunlight, fire, or excessive pressure. Keep them away from flammable materials and avoid exposure to acidic substances.
By following the above methods for cleaning and maintenance, you can keep your beloved genuine leather bags looking brand new.