How to Clean and Condition Leather Purse
To care for a leather purse, there are a few basic steps you can take. Before you begin, first of all, check the care instructions on the purse. Many will list how to clean and condition it using mild hand soap and warm water. But you can also go for a holistic clean, which includes white vinegar, olive oil, and your favorite essential oil. Be sure to use a paper towel or linen cloth for this process.
Exotic skins are the Queen of all leather purses
In recent years, luxury brands have shifted to vegan materials and alternative leathers, but the demand for leather handbags made from exotic skins is still high. For instance, at a recent Christie’s auction, a white Himalaya crocodile Birkin bag sold for a record price of Rs 2,81,33,800. Similarly, a Gucci small Zumi alligator bag sells for Rs 21,39,300, while a Louis Vuitton ostrich backpack is worth Rs 11,33,000
If you want to have an exotic-skin purse, be sure to treat it properly. Exotic-skin leathers tend to lose moisture more quickly than other leathers, so it’s important to condition it at least once a month or two. Moreover, you should choose a conditioner that is gentle on the skin, like Chamberlain’s Leather Care Liniment No. 1. Exotic skins are particularly delicate and should be treated with care.
Avoid direct contact with liquids and oils
You can clean your leather purse or handbag with a quality leather cleaner, but it’s important to avoid direct contact with oils and liquids. Some popular cleaning products include vinegar and baby wipes, and you should use a leather cleaner specially formulated for leather. These products can be harsh on the leather, and may damage the color of the leather.
If you’re using a leather cleaner, make sure to follow the directions on the container. The product should be applied with a soft cloth, and you should avoid getting it on metal parts of the bag. You should then use it to wipe out any stains on the leather. If there’s an ink stain on the leather, try to remove it as quickly as possible, otherwise it will penetrate deeper layers of the leather. You may need to use a professional to remove ink stains. If your purse has a zipper, be careful not to use water. Water will spread the grease and discoloration.
Store bags in an airtight container
Before storing your leather purse in a storage case, it is important to clean it thoroughly. You can also use a damp cloth to wipe off any excess dirt. Avoid storing it in a place that is too hot, as it can cause fading and discolouration.
To preserve the beauty and durability of your leather purse, clean it after each use. You can also use a dust bag, which can keep it out of the sun and prevent dust from penetrating. When not in use, store it in an airtight container in a cool and dark place.
Prevent water from sinking in
Water is one of the worst enemies of leather purses. It can erode the leather and leave unsightly stains. The best way to avoid this situation is to take extra care when carrying your bag. Simply be careful with it and be sure to store it in a dry place.
You should also avoid setting your bag down on public floors. Water will easily stain the leather and leave it unable to bounce back. If this happens, it will need to be cleaned more frequently.
Remove stains
If your leather purse has stains from coffee, tea, soda, or other liquids, you can clean it with a cleaning solution. Make sure to dilute the solution with water, then apply it to the stain with a soft cloth. Leave it on for several hours, and then wipe it off with a clean cloth. You can also rub it with a towel to dry it.
Wine is another common stain on leather purses. Although the stain may not be permanent, the wine’s tannins can make it difficult to remove after it has dried. However, there are several simple solutions to remove the stain. First, apply a small amount of hydrogen peroxide to a paper towel. This will remove the stain.
Store in a dust bag
When not in use, it’s important to clean and condition leather purses by storing them in a dust bag. Keeping your purses in a dust bag will prevent them from losing their shape and colour. It will also keep them away from the sun, which isn’t good for leather. Another helpful tip is to place parchment paper inside the dust bag. But avoid putting newspaper inside as it could transfer ink onto the leather.
When storing your leather bag, place it on a cool, dry surface. If you leave it in a damp area, it will absorb moisture and begin to crack. Make sure that the bag is not left in direct sunlight or a humid environment, as these can damage the leather faster.
