How to Care for a Leather Bag — The Complete Guide

Regular care can help your leather bag stay useful and comfortable to carry. The right routine depends on the leather and finish, so start with the product’s care instructions and our Leather Care guide.

The basic monthly routine

  1. Empty the bag completely
  2. Shake out dust and debris
  3. Wipe the entire exterior with a clean, dry, lint-free cloth
  4. Check the seams and hardware for any issues
  5. Leave open in a well-ventilated spot for an hour before storing

Conditioning — follow the finish-specific guidance

A suitable conditioner may help maintain some leather finishes. Use it only when recommended for your item, and avoid over-applying products.

What to use: Use a product suitable for your particular leather finish. Follow its instructions and test a small hidden area first. Avoid household oils, alcohol and unapproved cleaning products.

  1. Clean the bag first with a slightly damp cloth and allow to dry
  2. Apply a very small amount of conditioner to a soft cloth
  3. Work it in with circular motions across the entire surface
  4. Follow the product’s stated absorption and drying time, then remove any excess as directed
  5. Allow to dry fully before use

Handling scratches

Light scuffs may be part of normal wear. Follow the care guidance for your finish and avoid vigorous rubbing, which may alter the surface. Ask for advice before treating a deep scratch.

Handling water and rain

  1. Wipe off excess water with a dry cloth immediately
  2. Loosely fill the bag with clean, unprinted tissue to help maintain its shape
  3. Allow to dry naturally at room temperature — away from radiators and direct sunlight
  4. Once fully dry, check the finish-specific care guidance before applying any product

Never use a hairdryer — heat dries leather too fast, causing it to crack permanently.

Removing stains

  • Ink: Avoid alcohol and household solvents. Ask a leather-care specialist or contact us before treatment.
  • Oil and grease: Blot fresh excess gently with a clean, dry cloth. Avoid rubbing or adding cleaning products without finish-specific advice.
  • Water stains: Let the item dry naturally away from heat. Do not wet the whole panel to try to blend a mark; ask for advice if it remains.
  • General dirt: Barely damp cloth followed by conditioning.

Storage

  • Store stuffed with tissue paper to maintain shape
  • Keep in a breathable dust bag — never in plastic
  • Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight
  • Never store compressed under heavy items

The long view

Useful life depends on the materials, construction, care and conditions of use. Check seams and hardware regularly, and see our Warranty & Repairs policy if something is not right.

Browse our handmade leather bags →