Do you know the psychology behind the fascination with leather?
Be it an iconic jacket, a rich-textured handbag, or even the 18th-century patina on a chair, leather is a captivating material.
It holds such a special place in our hearts due to -
- Material symbolism - Leather is often associated with sophistication, wealth, and durability.
- Cultural influence - Leather has a rich cultural history as it was mainly worn during certain rituals or ceremonies in Native American regalia.
- Sensory appeal - Just as the smoothness of leather can feel comforting, its grainy texture can evoke a sense of adventure.
Longevity is also a desirable feature associated with leather.
While that is true, it largely depends on care and maintenance.
Do you own a luxury leather handbag?
It can last you decades with some love and care. In this article, we will discuss four tips to preserve its quality.
Remove Any Stains Immediately
From general maintenance to stain removal, sometimes all that is needed is a good wipe-down.
However, timing is of utmost importance.
You can use a clean microfiber towel to gently remove any dust on the bag’s surface.
The moment you spot a stain, it's time to spring into action.
HGTV shares the different kinds of stains that often tarnish the look and quality of leather.
Your handbag is at risk of being stained by water spots, ink, oil or grease, and mold.
Food-related stains may go away by rubbing white chalk powder onto the stained area. Just leave it overnight and dust it off the next morning.
However, others, like ink or water spots, require a dedicated cleaner.
Invest in a good cleaning solution designed exclusively for leather.
Do not try to DIY one, as it may ruin your bag.
Also, never use cleaning products that contain alcohol, turpentine, or mineral spirits.
They can easily dry out leather or cause the color to fade.
Apply the cleaner in circular motions onto the stained area and use a clean cloth to dab on it.
Avoid overtreating leather, as it will become wrinkly or soggy in appearance.
If needed, a leather-specific protective spray is a good option to maintain your handbag’s longevity.
Simply ensure the spray does not damage the bag’s color or finish by conducting a patch test.
As a pro tip, consider keeping some wet wipes handy.
If your bag gets stained in a restaurant or someplace outside, you can use those wipes as an emergency solution.
Once you get back home, clean the bag properly for stain removal.
Use Specialized Treatments
Leather is a sought-after ‘natural’ handbag material, which means it has its limitations too.
The passage of time can make leather crack, dry out, and deteriorate because it is porous and loses natural oils.
Certain specialized treatments may be needed to preserve your handbag’s life and appearance.
One example would be a good-quality conditioner that prevents the leather from drying out prematurely.
Other treatments are also used, mainly to make the bag stain and water-resistant.
These may be crucial for a longer life, but we don't recommend using harsh chemical-based products.
Leather is generally made stain or water-resistant using surfactants that contain per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
These chemicals are notorious, having a reputation for causing cancer.
Their use in Class B firefighting foam or Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) has injured firefighters with bladder, kidney, and testicle cancer.
According to TorHoerman Law, thousands of lawsuits have been filed against PFAS manufacturers.
You can be certain that the manufacturers care the least since they are alleged to have known the risks beforehand.
As per the latest AFFF lawsuit update, they will be tried soon so the injured parties can get justice.
PFAS exposure, even through surfactants, carries with it health risks like hormone disruptions and compromised immunity.
Thankfully, natural and sustainable alternatives are available.
You can invest in a good plant-based protectant or even conditioner.
Opt for non-toxic ones made of beeswax or carnauba wax.
They will not only protect your handbag but will also be safe for you.
In case of a protectant spray, choose one without synthetic additives, preferably water-based.
Store the Handbag Properly
As luxurious as your handbag is, it will require proper and thoughtful storage solutions.
Proper storage will determine its shape, color, and utility in the long run.
For instance, direct sunlight can dry out the leather and make the color fade.
This means you cannot store your bag in a place that may receive sunlight, even if it's wet.
Let the bag air-dry in a cool and dry area.
After every use, gently wipe the bag with a clean cloth and let it dry thoroughly.
Stuff the bag with some bubble wrap, which will help hold its shape.
A cool and dry spot is also ideal for long-term storage.
Just like harsh sunlight can damage the bag, moisture can lead to mold build-up.
You can also use pillowcases or dust covers for added protection.
Even plastic containers and wardrobe organizers are available to store a leather handbag separately.
Position your handbag properly in its slot and avoid putting too much strain on the straps or zippers.
If you use your handbag less frequently, regular checks and wipe-downs are important to ensure the bag stays pristine.
Be Intentional About Using Your Handbag
Much like storage, the way you use your leather handbag can also determine its lifespan.
Do you handle your bag with care?
This aspect would cover a lot of areas.
For instance, you must pick your bag up only with clean hands.
This will prevent oil and dirt buildup.
When in doubt, just wash your hands quickly and let them dry before touching the handbag.
Also, do not overload the bag, as leather does not handle it well.
Being skin, it has a natural tendency to stretch and expand over time.
Excessive strain will escalate this process, thereby creating uneven textures on your handbag.
Before placing down your handbag, choose a dirt-free, dry spot to avoid scuffing issues.
On that note, it's best to keep your bag out of the reach of children.
If you do allow a kid to hold your bag, educate them on the dos and don’ts of handling it with care.
Lastly, frequently check your bag for any wear and tear on the straps, zippers, or the overall body.
Timely repairs ensure that minor damages do not become major issues down the line.
Whether your leather handbag is brand new or has been your trusted companion for some time now, apply this article’s tips.
They will help you get the most out of your bag’s functional life.
Among all kinds of luxuries, leather goods are an American favorite.
Statista published the results of a survey in which 44% of those over age 40 made multiple leather item purchases in the past year.
The figure was even higher among younger demographics (55%).
One major reason why more people are investing in leather is its longevity.
That's true, but again, the material must be given its due care and maintenance.
