Use a Leather Conditioner
Leather conditioner is an essential product for nourishing and moisturizing leather to keep it soft and supple. Condition your leather purse at least every 4-6 months using a high-quality leather conditioner.
Apply the conditioner lightly using a clean, soft cloth. Massage it gently into the leather and allow it to soak in completely. Avoid over-conditioning as this can damage the leather over time. Buff any excess conditioner with a clean cloth. This will help prevent dirt buildup and staining.
Some good leather conditioners to try are Lexol, Leather Honey, and Chamberlain’s Leather Milk. Test any new conditioner on a small, inconspicuous spot first to check for any adverse effects.
Clean with a Leather Cleaner
For routine cleaning, use a specialty leather cleaner designed for purses and handbags. Leather cleaners contain mild detergents that lift dirt and oils without stripping the leather’s natural moisture.
Dampen a soft, clean cloth with the leather cleaner and gently wipe down the entire purse. Pay special attention to high-touch areas and seams. Avoid saturating the leather and never submerge the purse in water.
After cleaning, follow up with a leather conditioner to restore moisture. We recommend using a leather cleaner every 2-3 months to keep your purse looking its best. Apple Brand, Leather Nova, and Leather Honey make excellent leather cleaners.
Protect from Water and Moisture
Since leather is skin, water is one of its biggest enemies. Getting leather wet can cause stains, alter the texture, and promote mold growth.
If your leather purse gets wet, dry it immediately with a clean, soft towel. Allow it to air dry fully before conditioning to prevent damaging the leather.
You can also help protect your purse by spraying it with a waterproofing spray like Apple Brand Rain & Stain Repellant or Kiwi Camp Dry. Reapply the waterproofer every few months for the best protection.
Store Properly When Not in Use
When not using your leather purse, store it properly to prevent scratches, creasing, and slouching:
- Stuff it lightly with acid-free tissue paper to retain the purse’s shape. Avoid overstuffing.
- Keep it in a breathable dust bag or box away from direct sunlight and heat.
- Do not store anything heavy on top of the purse.
- Ideally, store the purse on a flat shelf rather than hanging it.
- Alternate between different purses to give the leather a chance to rest and retain its shape.
Be Gentle and Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Handle your leather purse gently and minimize friction in high-wear areas. Consider rotating the points of straps and handles to distribute wear.
Avoid using saddle soap, bleach, ammonia, or other harsh household cleaners on leather. Only use specialty leather care products to prevent stripping the finish or damaging the leather.
With proper care and routine maintenance, a quality leather purse will last for many years and develop a beautiful patina over time. Follow these tips and enjoy your stylish leather accessory for seasons to come!
FAQs About Caring for a Leather Purse
How can I get rid of stains on my leather purse?
Use a clean, lightly dampened cloth to gently blot the stain. Avoid rubbing. Once blotted, clean the whole purse with a leather cleaner and conditioner to blend any lightened spots. For tougher stains, try a leather deglazer like Leather Magic! or Fiebing’s Deglazer followed by reconditioning.
What’s the best way to clean leather purse linings?
Check the lining fabric and follow the care recommendations. For delicate linings, brush out any loose dirt gently with a lint roller or soft-bristle brush. Spot clean lightly with a clean, barely damp cloth. Allow to fully air dry.
How do I fix pen marks or ink stains on leather?
Rub the stain gently with a clean pencil eraser to lift as much as possible. Then use a leather deglazer, cleaning the whole purse after to avoid light spots. Avoid using alcohol or nail polish remover as these can discolor leather.
Can I use baby wipes on leather purses?
Avoid using baby wipes or other household cleaners on leather. The perfumes, alcohol, and chemicals in wipes can dry out and discolor leather over time. Use only specialty leather cleaners.
What’s the best way to waterproof a leather purse?
Use a specialty leather waterproofer like Apple Brand Rain & Stain Repellant or Kiwi Camp Dry. Apply it evenly according to the product’s directions, usually holding 8-10 inches away and spraying in a ventilated spot. Let dry fully before using the purse.
Caring for Your Leather Purse Pays Off
Caring properly for your leather purse is easy with some basic maintenance. Use a leather conditioner to nourish the leather, clean gently with a specialty cleaner, protect from moisture, and store correctly. Avoid harsh chemicals or over-handling delicate leathers. With some TLC, your purse will last for many years of functional fashion! Treasure and care for your investment and enjoy your beautiful leather purse for seasons to come.