pictured above: 3.1 Phillip Lim Pashli Bag
During those warm summer months, it can be tempting to lighten things up a bit. Pastels, nudes, and (if you are really ambitious) white handbags are very popular. As lovely as these handbags can be, they can also be a huge headache to maintain. Let’s face it, white or light colored handbags are magnets for dirt and stains. So much so, that many bagistas avoid them altogether. Or they buy an inexpensive bag they plan to use for only one season. However, there are a few brave souls out there that I know will make an investment in a white or light colored handbag. So just for you, I am providing some tips for keeping your handbag looking newer longer.
Tip #1 – Prevention
Your best defense is always going to be prevention. Some things might seem like common sense, but you would not believe how many people I see setting their handbag on the floor in a restaurant! Dirty floors (and countertops) can make your handbag look dingy really fast. So invest in a purse hanger. They aren’t very expensive and they will keep your beloved handbag off the floor.
Also consider…
Do not carry click pens inside your handbag, do not wear dark colored jeans while carrying your handbag, and use caution when you are at the makeup counter. Another good idea is to have a leather repair shop put feet on your handbag if it does not have any. Plus applying Scotchgard or a similar product will help repel stains.
Tip #2 - Lightly Clean Regularly
Experts say it is best to lightly clean your handbag on a regular basis rather than wait for it to become heavily soiled. The best way to do this is by adding 1 or 2 drops of baby wash to 1 cup of water. Apply the baby wash solution to a microfiber cloth and use it to gently wipe the solution all over your handbag. Go with the grain of the leather and use smooth even strokes. Do not rub too hard.
Just remember…
Different leathers react differently to cleaners. Make sure to do a spot test in an inconspicuous area first to make sure it won’t discolor the leather.
Tip #3 - Use Caution When Removing Stains
Most experts recommend using saddle soap to get out tough stains. Apply the saddle soap to a microfiber cloth and gently blot the stain. Do not rub too hard. Saddle soap will work on water-based stains only.
Just remember…
Different leathers react differently to cleaners. Make sure to do a spot test in an inconspicuous area first to make sure it won’t discolor the leather.
Tip #4 – Call a Professional
Some stains need professional help. This is particularly true for oil-based stains. Take your most serious cases to a dry cleaner or leather repair shop. This is also a good idea if your handbag is made of a more delicate leather that scratches or discolors easily.
