How to Properly Clean and Store Leather Handbags

Purchasing a genuine leather handbag is an investment.  When purchasing one select a classic, not trendy style that you can use for years to come. Avoid the temporary trends or wild colors that you’ll only use sparingly. It’s an investment and you want to get your money’s worth. All leather handbags need to be cleaned and conditioned regularly to keep them looking nice. Here’s a few tips on how to clean them.

** This post contains affiliate links.

Remove everything from the bag. Open up all of the compartments and pockets.  Turn it upside-down and shake over the kitchen sink to remove crumbs, dirt, and debris.  Use a leather cleaner and dry cotton cloth to wipe down the outside of the bag including the straps if made out of leather. Make sure you read all instructions on the leather cleaner before using it. Take a dry cotton towel to dry and buff the surface.

Cleaning the inside of the bag will depend on the materials lining the bag.  If leather…clean the same way as the outside.  If lined in fabric you can simply wipe it out using a slightly damp cloth. Blot with a cotton towel. If the inside of the bag has any odors you can try misting it lightly on the inside with Febreze or sprinkle in a Tablespoon of baking soda, let sit for 1-2 hours and then shake it out.

After cleaning the bag it’s important to condition it with a leather conditioner.  You’ll find various sprays and creams available out in the retail market.  Read all instructions before using as application and frequency of application can vary product to product.  Let thoroughly air dry before using or storing.

All leather handbags need to be properly stored when not in use. Store in a dust bag, old pillowcase or cotton drawstring bag. Lay them flat on a shelf. They should never be stored in plastic containers or tossed onto the floor of the closet! Don’t store them in damp basements or heated attics, both of which can cause damage to the leather.

Following these steps will keep genuine leather handbags looking nice for years to come.

* This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, we may or may not receive a small commission which helps to support this site. Thank you!