The Do’s and Don’ts of Handbag Care at Home – A Professional’s Guide.
A luxury handbag is more than just an accessory – it’s an investment, an expression of personal style, and often holds sentimental value. Understandably, many owners are eager to maintain their bags at home to extend their life and preserve their beauty. However, incorrect DIY handbag care comes with risks, especially when the wrong methods or household products are used, due to hacks seen on cleaning forums.
We’ve restored handbags in the past that could’ve needed nothing more than a light clean, but after incorrect care at home, they arrived requiring extensive – and expensive – restoration. Let’s walk through what not to do, what you can safely do at home, and why trusting professionals, with specialist products is often the most cost-effective route in the long run.
DON’T: Reach for Baby Wipes
Baby wipes might seem harmless – gentle enough for skin, right? Unfortunately, they’re not designed for leather. Many wipes contain alcohol, preservatives, and other chemicals that strip away protective finishes, leading to:
- Faded colour and patchiness
- Watermarks and surface cracking
- Accelerated wear on delicate leathers
DON’T: Use Household Cleaning Products
Kitchen sprays, bleach, bathroom cleaners, and even washing-up liquid are formulated for hard surfaces – not leather or fabric. These products are often alkaline or acidic and can:
- Cause discolouration or fading
- Dry out and damage leather fibres
- Leave behind residues that attract more dirt
DON’T: Experiment with DIY “Hacks”
From vinegar and lemon juice to nail varnish remover and hairspray – we’ve seen it all. These highly abrasive substances can destroy topcoats, pull out dyes, and irreversibly damage your bag’s finish. If it’s not specifically formulated for luxury materials, avoid it.
DON’T: Put Handbags in the Washing Machine
Whether it’s leather, suede, or canvas – handbags should never go in the washer. This method destroys:
- Shape and structure
- Stitching and adhesive work
- Delicate hardware and trims
We’ve seen countless bags warped beyond recognition thanks to this "quick fix".
DON’T: Rub at Stains
When accidents happen, resist the urge to scrub or apply pressure. Rubbing can spread the stain, embed dirt deeper, or lift pigment – especially on unfinished or delicate leathers.
DO: Follow These Pro Tips for Handbag Care at Home
✔ Blot, Don’t Rub:
If you spill something, blot gently with a clean, dry cloth to absorb the liquid. Always work from the edges of the stain inward.
✔ Use Specialist Products:
Our care kits are specifically designed for handbags and leather goods. A gentle, pH-balanced cleaner and protector will safely lift surface dirt without harming the material.
✔ Handle with Clean Hands:
Natural oils, lotions, or dirt on hands can transfer easily to light-coloured or untreated leathers.
✔ Store Correctly:
- Keep bags in breathable dust covers
- Use tissue or bag shapers to maintain structure
- Avoid direct sunlight and heat sources
- Don’t store cold or damp
✔ Protect from Day One:
Applying a leather protector (like LRC Leather Guard®️) as soon as you get your handbag can help prevent stains, dye transfer from clothing, and UV fading.
Additional Expert Don’ts You Might Not Know
- No heat drying: Never use a hairdryer or radiator to dry a bag – it causes leather to crack and warp.
- Avoid coloured cloths: Always use white or neutral bamboo cloths – coloured cloths can bleed dye onto your bag.
- Don’t hang by handles: Over time, this stretches leather and warps shape – especially when bags are full.
- No makeup wipes or micellar water: These may contain oils, alcohols or cleansers that damage finishes.
Final Word from the Pros
While it’s fantastic to see handbag owners taking proactive steps in care, it’s important to know the difference between maintenance and restoration. The wrong approach at home can quickly turn a small fix into a costly repair. When in doubt, always seek professional advice before attempting anything on a cherished piece.
Need help or not sure what to use? Reach out to our team – we’re always happy to offer guidance.
