There is nothing quite like a leather accessory. It can make any outfit more dressed up and distinctive. From the perfect black bag to a tiny clutch, leather purses and accessories can be eye-catching and unique. An investment piece, a leather bag should be adequately cared for to ensure it lasts as long as possible.
From regular upkeep to using the proper tools, a few ways to ensure your bag looks as good as the day you bought it. Here are five tips to keep your black bag looking good:
- Regularly Clean the Inside
You should always wipe down your bag with a damp cloth or brush, which will remove accumulated dust and dirt. Dirt and grime can cause damage to leather, so make sure you clean your purse with a damp cloth. If you need more cleaning power, try saddle soap or a mild detergent on a soft bristle brush.
- Use a Soft Cloth or Brush on the Outside
If you have scratches on the outside of your bag, use a soft cloth or brush to remove them. This will prevent scratches from getting worse and causing permanent damage to the leather. Cleaning your leather accessories regularly is one of the best ways to keep them looking good and feeling soft. You can use a damp cloth or brush on your black bag to wipe away dirt and dust, but be careful not to get any moisture into the seams or other openings on your bag—it could cause discoloration or mildew. You should also avoid cleaning products containing alcohol or ammonia, as these can dry the leather and cause cracks over time.
- Try to Avoid it Getting Wet
Water can cause the leather to crack and become brittle over time, so avoid getting your black bag wet if possible! If you find yourself in this situation, dry off as much water as possible with a towel (or hair dryer), then let it air for several hours before putting it back into storage (or using it again). If you spill anything on your bag, use a cloth as quickly as possible to sop up any moisture. Then, clean it with a gentle solution to remove the stain and dry quickly.
- Apply Conditioner Frequently
Your black bag needs a little extra TLC because natural leather is susceptible to drying out if left untreated—which can lead to cracking and other damage that will ruin the beauty of your accessory. The easiest way to prevent this is by applying a conditioner every couple of weeks or so with a soft cloth or brush (just like you would with a pair of shoes). Don’t forget those corners—they tend to be neglected when people apply conditioners.
- Store in a Dark and Dry Place
Never leave your leather bag or purse in direct sunlight for long periods, as this can cause discoloration and fade over time. Likewise, avoid storing your product in hot areas like attics or garages during the summer months. This can also cause discoloration and fading over time and cracking in some cases (especially if there’s too much moisture present). Leather also doesn’t like being exposed to extreme temperatures (either hot or cold), so try not to leave your bag out in the freezing cold or blazing hot sun all day long—this can also cause damage over time.
Your leather accessories will likely develop patina over time as they gain experience. You will want to polish your goods with products specially made for the job. You will also want to use linseed oil or conditioner on your straps. It is up to you when you decide the perfect time to start caring for your leather gear.
Leather should be treated like any other material. It requires cleaning, conditioning, and is regularly inspected for damage. When you have a bag you love, it becomes a part of your wardrobe. Make sure your accessories are in great shape; maintain them with a little bit of care to keep them looking great for years to come.
