How to Clean Leather Purse

A leather purse could provide you with years of use if it is well-maintained. These bags aren’t cheap, so you understandably want to extend the life of your purse.

Unfortunately, the more you use your purse, the more likely it is to get dirty and stained. While cleaning your purse is easy to do with products that you likely already have on-hand, the wrong products and methods can ruin it.

Importance of Maintaining Leather Purses

The durability of leather is well-known, but leather can get dirty just like any other material. The porous material clings to oil and dirt. This leads to stains and smudges that give your handbag a discolored look.

In addition to keeping your leather purse clean, it should also be conditioned from time to time. Conditioning the material prevents it from cracking and getting stiff.

Why It’s Important to Know Your Leather Type Before Cleaning

While it’s easy to lump all leather purses into the same category, there are actually several types of leather.

Using the right cleaning method for the material will help you to remove more dirt without damaging the material. The leather types are:

• Full Grain Leather – This material can be cleaned with a lightly damp cloth, but do not use cleaning products on it.
• Top Grain Leather – Like full grain leather, you can use a lightly damp cloth to wipe the bag down.
• General Leather – A leather-specific cleaning product or diluted white vinegar are safe to use on general leather.
• Aniline Leather – Use a leather cleaner that is safe for aniline leather, and follow that product’s instructions.
• Split Leather – Wipe down the leather using a soft, dry cloth or brush.

How Can I Clean My Leather Purse at Home?

While each type of leather has specific care instructions, there are common steps to clean a leather purse thoroughly and safely.

Preparing the Purse for Cleaning

Before cleaning your purse, remove all of the contents. Over a trash can, shake out loose dirt and hair. If you can flip the bag inside out, use a lint roller to remove finer pieces of debris. Otherwise, use the handheld attachment on your vacuum cleaner.

Spot Cleaning

If your leather purse is only dirty in spots, use a clean microfiber cloth to wipe away the dirt. Depending on the type of leather, you can also apply a small amount of clean water or leather cleaner to the cloth before wiping. Always refer to the purse’s care instructions to avoid damaging the leather.

General Cleaning

For routine cleaning, fill a bowl with soapy water. Dip a microfiber cloth in the soapy water, and wring it thoroughly. Wipe the purse’s exterior. Then, use a second clean cloth moistened with fresh water to remove the soap from the purse. Use a towel to dry off the leather as much as possible. Then, allow the purse to air dry completely.

Handling Tough Stains

If your leather purse is stained, such as with ink, use rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover. Lightly moisten a cotton swab with your preferred cleaning product. Dab at the stain gently. Avoid rubbing the stain as this can cause the stain to spread.

If necessary, replace the cotton swab as it gets dirty. Continue dabbing until the stain is gone. To remove the cleaning product, wipe the area with a clean, damp cloth. Then, use a towel to dry the purse.

If your purse is stained with a greasy or oily substance, sprinkle cornstarch or baking soda on it. Rub the powder with a damp, soft cloth. Leave the purse undisturbed overnight. This allows the powder to absorb the oil or grease. Then, use a clean cloth to wipe off the powder.

Conditioning the Leather

Leather conditioning products are available online and at local stores. You can also make a conditioner with two parts linseed oil and one part vinegar. Apply the conditioner to the leather using a clean cloth. Use a clean microfiber cloth to buff the leather.

Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Your Leather Purse

While cleaning your leather purse is easy to do, there are some common mistakes that people make. What mistakes should you avoid when cleaning your purse?

• Don’t use disinfectant wipes, household detergents, ammonia or bleach on your leather purse.
• Don’t use abrasive sponges, firm-bristle brushes or steel wool to clean your purse.
• Don’t use excessive moisture.
• Don’t use a hair dryer, heater or direct sunlight to dry your purse after cleaning it.
• Don’t apply firm pressure or brush the bag harshly.
• Don’t forget to read the manufacturer’s care instructions.

How to Dry and Store Your Leather Purse Properly

After cleaning your purse, dry it with a clean towel. Before storing it, give it time to air dry completely. If your purse has buckles or straps, loosen them. Store your leather purse in a cool, dry place.

FAQs

What Is the Best Way to Clean Leather Handbags?

The best way to regularly clean a leather bag is with soapy water. Dip a soft cloth in the soapy water, and wring out excessive moisture. After wiping down the bag with the soapy water, remove the soap with a second clean, moist cloth. Then, dry the bag with a towel.

How Do You Clean a Leather Bag Without Washing It?

You can clean a leather bag without using a cleaning product or soapy water by using a dry cloth. Using a clean, microfiber cloth, wipe the bag to remove dirt and dust.

How Can I Make My Leather Purse Shine Again?

Leather purses should be conditioned periodically to maintain their suppleness and healthy shine. You can use a leather conditioning product or a mixture of one part vinegar and two parts linseed oil. Buff the leather with the conditioner and a soft cloth.

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