A Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Designer Bags

We all know that designer bags don't come cheap. After spending thousands of dollars, the last thing you want is to ruin its appearance with stains or scratches.

So, how do you keep your beloved designer bags looking clean and brand-new for years to come? If you're ready to say goodbye to those mystery stains and scuffs, you've come to the right place. 

In this step-by-step guide, we'll tell you all the secrets to cleaning and maintaining your designer handbags. 

Getting to Know Your Designer Bag

Each bag has its own personality and cleaning requirements. That’s why knowing the material is the first step to maintaining your expensive purse. This simple guide should help:

Leather

Leather purses are classic and durable, but they need care. Leather may be kept smooth and crack-free using a soft cloth and conditioner. Moisture and strong chemicals are bad for leather.

Vegan Leather

Vegan leather is elegant, low-maintenance and guilt-free. Although it is heat-sensitive, it's more forgiving of stains and scratches. A quick wipe with a moist cloth and mild soap typically keeps it clean. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight!

Suede

Suede's rich texture is lovely to look at but difficult to maintain. Only use a suede brush to clean any dirt on it. Get a suede cleaner when it’s time to remove stains. Also, know that moisture doesn't mix with suede. A protective spray can keep it looking great.

Fabric

Fabric bags are ideal for daily use. Lightweight, portable, and easy to clean. Spot cleaning with mild detergent usually works. Some fabric bags can be washed in the washing machine, but do check the care label!

Exotic Skins

A bag made from exotic skins, such as a crocodile or python, is truly special. However, these materials are delicate, so it’s best to let the professionals clean them. You can keep them clean by lightly dusting them and storing them in a cool, dry place.

Materials You Need to Clean Your Designer Bags

To get you started, we've created a list of the few materials you'll need for luxury handbag cleaning. Keep in mind that you don't need all these materials – take your pick depending on the type of designer bag you have and the specific issue you're dealing with.

Soapy Water

Soapy water is the most important agent for cleaning a canvas or canvas-coated bag. When dealing with stubborn stains or general dirt buildup, you don't want to start off with harsh cleaners. If you've spilled coffee or ink on your bag, soapy water can be a gentle yet effective solution. 

Here's how you'll use it:

• Start by mixing a small amount of mild liquid soap with warm water. 
• Dip a soft microfiber cloth into the soap solution and wring out excess water. 
• Gently dab the stained areas – avoid excessive rubbing to prevent damage to the fabric or leather. 
• Use a clean and slightly damp cloth to wipe away any soap residue. 
• Let your designer bag air dry away from direct sunlight or heat. 

Even if your bag doesn't have a major stain, it's best to wipe it down every other week with a cloth soaked in soapy water. 

Remember, this cleaning method should only be used for canvas or canvas-coated bags.

Wet Wipes

Canvas and coated canvas bags demand gentle care. Wet wipes are a quick and gentle way to tackle certain spills or stains. In fact, we recommend keeping a pack of them in your bag for on-the-go cleaning. 

Wet wipes really come in handy when you're dealing with a coffee mishap or a smudge from daily use. For instance, a canvas bag that has picked up dirt and other stains may demand immediate attention to prevent further damage. Here's how you can use wet wipes in that situation.

• Dab the affected area gently with a wet wipe.
• Do not rub vigorously, which could worsen the stain or damage the material. 
• Wipe the handbag with a dry cloth to get rid of the soapy residue.

We recommend using baby wipes for a more gentle effect. 

Leather Cleaner

If you like to collect leather handbags, it's wise to invest in a leather cleaner for luxury bags. When your designer bag starts to lose its lustre, a leather cleaner will be your go-to. 

Dust, dirt, and stains can accumulate over time, especially on high-end leather bags. A leather cleaner can get rid of these imperfections without damaging the expensive leather. Here's how to use it.

• Apply a small drop of leather cleaner onto a soft cloth
• Gently rub it onto the stained areas in circular motions. 
• Once the stain is gone, wipe clean with a dry cloth.

Bags made from fine leather, like calfskin or lambskin, are too sensitive to handle the effects of an all-purpose cleaner. It's crucial to use a cleaner specifically made for leather to avoid fading or discolouration.

We recommend the Turtle Wax Luxe leather cleaner. It's a bit of an investment but also the best choice for designer bags.

Remember, this cleaning method should only be used for canvas or canvas-coated bags.

Metal Cleaner

A complete luxury bag cleaning doesn't end at the leather and fabric; you'll also need to clean the hardware. That includes zippers, buckles, or studs. Over time, this metal hardware can rust or tarnish, taking away from the bag's beauty. 

In that case, a metal cleaner is a great investment. It'll restore the hardware's shine and prevent jammed zippers. Here's how you should use it:

• Apply a small amount to a soft cloth and gently rub the metal surfaces.
• Add more cleaner and rub until you've removed all grime or tarnish.
• Wipe clean with a damp cloth. 

We recommend brands like Brasso and Flitz if you want an affordable metal cleaner.

Leather Conditioner

Simply cleaning your designer bag isn't enough; you also need to make efforts to maintain its brand-new shine and lustre. That's when a leather conditioner will come in handy, especially if the leather starts to feel dry or stiff. 

You may notice this over time due to exposure to various elements like sunlight or moisture. Applying a leather conditioner replenishes the natural oils of the leather, making it look fresh and new. It also prevents cracking and preserves the bag's luxuriously soft feel.

Here's how to use it:

• Gently wipe the designer bag with a clean cloth to remove any dirt or debris.
• Apply a small amount of conditioner onto another cloth.
• Rub the conditioner evenly over the bag's surface – focus on areas prone to dryness. 
• Allow it to absorb and dry naturally before using the bag again.

Designer bags made of genuine leather – full-grain or top-grain – would definitely benefit from thorough conditioning now and then. We recommend the Collonil Leather Gel.

Troubleshooting Designer Bag Cleaning Problems

Now that you have the right materials to clean your designer bag, it's time to tackle the specific issue you may be facing. Here are a few scenarios where your designer bag may need cleaning. 

My Bag Smells

If your designer bag has a strange odour, don't fret; there are many ways to remedy it. This may be happening due to excess moisture, food spills, or other environmental factors. Here's how to tackle the issue:

1. Start by emptying the bag and airing it out in a well-ventilated area. Wash the handbag lining on a gentle cycle in your washing machine.
2. Next, gently wipe the interior and exterior with a damp cloth to remove any surface-level dirt. 
3. For stubborn smells, sprinkle baking soda inside and leave it overnight to absorb odours. 
4. Vacuum or wipe away the remaining baking soda the next day.

If the odour is still there, consider using a leather cleaner or deodorizer made for handbags. But remember: always test these products on a small, hidden area first to ensure they won't damage the leather. 

You can use a general fabric freshener spray or insert sachets of dried herbs like lavender or cedar to keep your bag smelling fresh between cleanings. 

My Bag is Stained

Staining your designer bag can be a pretty panic-filled moment. Here's what you need to do: take a breather and get to work. First, determine the type of leather your bag is made from, as different types require specific treatments.

1. For light stains on smooth leather bags, start by softly dabbing the stain with a clean, damp cloth. Avoid rubbing; it will only spread the stain. 
2. For tougher stains like ink or grease, use a leather cleaner or mild soap with a soft cloth in gentle, circular motions. Always test the product on a small area first.
3. For suede or nubuck bags, use a suede brush or suede eraser to gently lift the stain, followed by a light brushing to restore the nap.
4. Professional cleaning may be the best step for stubborn stains, especially if the bag is made from delicate or exotic leather.

To avoid this in the future, stay one step ahead. Use a leather protector spray to guard against spills and stains before they even happen.

My Bag is Mouldy

Mould is just about the last thing anyone wants to see on their designer bag. Luckily, there are a few solutions. 

First, figure out the extent of the mould growth. If it's mild, you can try cleaning it at home but severe cases may require professional cleaning.

Mould thrives in damp, dark environments, so storing your bag in a cool, dry place with proper ventilation can prevent mould growth. If your bag becomes damp, let it air dry completely before storing it. Leather bags are particularly susceptible to mould due to their organic material, but synthetic materials can also be affected.

1. For leather bags, gently wipe the mouldy areas with a damp cloth. 
2. Then, use a leather cleaner to remove mould and mildew stains. 
3. Follow up with a good-quality leather conditioner to restore moisture and prevent future mould growth.
4. For synthetic bags, a mild soap solution or a mixture of water and vinegar can do the job. 
5. Rinse and dry the affected area thoroughly to prevent damage to the material.
6. Regardless of the bag type, let it air dry completely in a well-ventilated room after cleaning. 
7. Inspect it thoroughly to ensure all mould spores are removed before storing it again. 

If none of that helps, hire professional designer bag cleaners.

My Bag is Scratched

Seeing scratches on your precious designer handbag can be disheartening, even more so if you don't know where they came from. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to address them. 

First, assess the severity of the scratches. Light scratches can be minimized with gentle treatment, while deeper ones may require professional cleaning.

If you don't know how the bag got scratched, it's most likely due to accidental abrasions against rough surfaces or improper storage. Prevention is key – store your bag in a dust bag or even just a soft cloth when it's not in use.

1. For light scratches on smooth leather bags, use a leather conditioner or cream to buff them out gently. 
2. Suede or nubuck bags require special erasers or brushes designed for delicate materials. 
3. Be cautious with coloured leathers, as some products may discolour them.
4. For bigger scratches, consult a professional leather repair service. Do not use wax or oil.

My Bag is Discoloured

Your bag may be discoloured due to exposure to sunlight, contact with moisture or interaction with oils or dyes. 

1. If you think it's due to a spill or stain, gently blot the affected area with a clean cloth to absorb as much of the substance as possible. Avoid rubbing – it can spread the stain further.
2. For light discolouration, you can use a leather cleaner. Use it with a soft cloth in small, circular motions.
3. For deeper or persistent discolouration, hire reputable leather cleaning services. They have the expertise and equipment to treat the leather and restore your bag without damaging it even more.

When to Hire Professional Bag Cleaning Services

How do you distinguish between a bag that needs a quick wash at home and one that requires professional cleaning services? When is the right time to step back and call up an expert?

Well, it can be tricky to know exactly when, so we've created a guide for you. Even though it'll cost you more, here are a few situations it's best to invest in a professional bag cleaner.

• Mould or Mildew: Leather bags are susceptible to mould and mildew growth, especially if left in damp conditions. It's best to leave this to the professionals since exposure to mould can cause health issues. 
• Discolouration: If your designer bag is deeply discoloured, it can't be saved by cleaning. It needs to be re-dyed, which professional cleaners know how to do.
• Deep Stains: If your designer bag has deep-seated stains that resist your typical cleaning methods, it's best to seek professional help. Stubborn stains from ink, oil, or food can penetrate deep into the leather and require a bit more elbow grease.
• Delicate Materials: Designer bags are often made from delicate materials like exotic leathers, suede, or gems. The last thing you want is to damage your bag even further by cleaning it at home. Professional cleaners are trained to handle delicate materials with precision and expertise.
• Restoration: If your designer bag has serious wear and tear, including scratches, scuffs, or structural damage, you can hire a professional to restore its appearance. 

Emergency Spot Cleaning Techniques

Let’s face it—accidents happen. When they do, knowing how to respond quickly can save your designer bag from permanent damage. Whether it’s a coffee spill or an unexpected lipstick smudge, these emergency spot-cleaning tips have you covered.

• Act Fast: The first few minutes after a spill are critical. Don’t panic! Instead, grab a clean, dry cloth and gently blot the area to absorb as much of the stain as possible. Whatever you do, avoid rubbing—this can spread the stain or push it deeper into the fabric or leather.
• Know Your Stain: Take a quick moment to assess what you’re dealing with—whether it’s ink, oil, wine, or something else. Different stains require different cleaning methods, so identifying the culprit will help you decide on the next steps.
• Use Gentle Solutions: For many fresh stains, a quick dab with a damp cloth dipped in mild soapy water can work wonders. Just be cautious—always test any cleaning solution on a small, hidden spot first to make sure it doesn’t damage the material.
• Air Dry Naturally: After spot cleaning, let your bag air dry in a cool, shaded area. Avoid using direct heat or sunlight, as these can lead to discolouration or damage, especially on delicate materials.

Making a Mini Cleaning Kit to Carry

Having a mini cleaning kit on hand can save you from a lot of stress when stains strike. Here’s what to include in your on-the-go bag-saving arsenal:

• Microfiber Cloth: Perfect for gently blotting and cleaning without scratching your bag.
• Travel-Sized Mild Detergent: A lifesaver for creating quick cleaning solutions when spills happen.
• Alcohol-Free Baby Wipes: These are great for quick, gentle cleaning and work well on most materials.
• Soft-Bristle Brush: Useful for brushing off dirt or lightly scrubbing fabric surfaces.
• Compact Pouch: Keep your mini cleaning tools in a small, breathable pouch so they’re easy to find and ready to use when you need them.

By acting fast and carrying a few essentials, you can handle most spot-cleaning emergencies with confidence. A little preparation goes a long way in keeping your designer bags looking as fabulous as the day you bought them!

Conclusion

Once you've mastered the art of cleaning your designer bags, you can keep them pristine and new for years to come. By following our guide, you'll be able to make the most of every penny you spend on that handbag. 

So, grab your cleaning kit and give your designer bags the TLC they deserve – every detail counts!