Think it's all fine and dandy to store leather handbags and purses in your closet without any maintenance? Think again. 

A leather purse is a mark of elegance, a testament to quality, and often a cherished piece that accompanies you everywhere, from daily errands to special occasions.

Whether it's a real or faux leather purse, keeping it looking its best does take a little know-how. With time, even the finest leather can lose its sheen if not cared for properly. 

This simple, essential guide from Club 21 will walk you through every step of cleaning and preserving your leather purse, so it remains an exquisite piece in your wardrobe for years to come.

Different Types of Leather and How to Care for Them 

There are many types of leather materials in the market and each has its own specific maintenance. Here's a look at some of the common leathers:

Calf Leather

Known for its durability and soft finish, calf leather is a popular choice for structured bags. For instance, the Jacquemus Le Bambino bag, crafted from supple calf leather, showcases the material’s smooth texture and refined appearance.

Care Tip: Gently clean with a soft, dry cloth to remove surface dust. For deeper cleaning, use a specialised leather cleaner to avoid excess moisture that could compromise its smoothness. Apply a leather conditioner periodically to keep it supple and resist cracking.

Cowhide Leather

Cowhide leather is highly durable, making it ideal for everyday use. Jacquemus Le Chiquito Moyen Handbag, made from 100% cowhide leather, is known for its robust and slightly textured feel. 

Care Tip: Clean with a damp, lint-free cloth and allow it to air dry naturally. Use a mild leather cleaner for stubborn stains, but avoid abrasive cleaning tools that could scratch the surface. A protective leather spray can also help maintain its texture and shield it from water spots.

Suede Leather

Suede, with its soft and velvety finish, is a luxurious material often used in slouchy, casual bags. For example, the delicate surface of JW PEI's Tessa Suede Shoulder Bag requires special attention to keep its lustrous look. 

Care Tip: Use a suede brush to remove dirt and maintain the nap. For tougher stains, a specialised suede cleaner or eraser works best and remember to avoid water, as it can cause discolouration or stiffness. Consider using a suede protector spray to resist stains and moisture!

Patent Leather

This high-gloss leather adds a bold, modern touch to any outfit but is vulnerable to smudges and scratches. Alexander Wang Patent Leather Shoulder Bag reflective surface makes it a statement material, perfect for evening wear or elevating casual outfits.

Care Tip: Wipe with a soft microfiber cloth to maintain its sheen and use a patent leather cleaner for tougher spots, but never use abrasive cleaners. Store in a dust bag to avoid scratches.

With the right care, leather bags not only retain their beauty but also develop a rich patina over time, becoming even more luxurious as they age.

Step 1. Begin with a Gentle Dusting 

Before diving into cleaning your leather bag, use a soft, dry microfiber cloth or leather brush to gently wipe away any loose dirt or dust. Pay close attention to the corners and seams where dust tends to gather!

Dusting is especially important for lighter-coloured leather bags, like those from Mulberry, where even minor particles can dull their appearance over time.

Avoid using any wet or harsh materials at this stage, as leather is sensitive to moisture.

This simple yet effective step can prevent dirt from embedding into the leather, keeping your purse looking fresh and polished which helps extend its lifespan. 

Step 2. Use a Specialised Leather Cleaner

When it comes to caring for leather, choosing the right products is crucial. Leather requires a delicate touch, so always opt for commercial leather cleaners or mix a mild dish soap solution when cleaning. 

For minor stains, apply a small amount of leather cleaner to a soft, damp cloth, and test it on a discreet area of the purse first to ensure it doesn’t alter the colour.

Once confirmed, gently rub the cleaner in circular motions across the entire bag, focusing on areas with visible dirt or stains. Don't scrub those stubborn stains! Instead, let the cleaner work its magic for a minute before softly wiping it away. 

High-quality leather cleaners are designed to dissolve dirt without stripping the leather’s natural oils, ensuring it retains its softness and rich, luxurious feel.

Step 3. Deep Conditioning

Just as your skin needs hydration to stay healthy, so does leather! Over time, without proper care, leather loses its natural oils, causing it to dry out, crack, or fade. 

To prevent this, keep the leather supple with a quality leather conditioner after cleaning to restore moisture and maintain its lustre. 

To apply the conditioner, use a small amount on a clean, soft cloth and gently massage it into the leather using circular motions. Leave it to absorb fully, which usually takes about 10-15 minutes, then buff any excess with a soft, dry cloth.

Regular conditioning will help maintain its exquisite texture and appearance, making it soft, vibrant, and more durable for everyday wear. Therefore, it's recommended to condition every 3-6 months.

Step 4. Protect with a Leather Protector

As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure. And a high-quality leather protector creates a protective barrier that shields your bag from stains, water, and other environmental damage.

When purchasing one, opt for a spray specifically formulated for leather, and always test it on a small, inconspicuous area first. 

Hold the spray about 20-30 centimetres away, and apply a light, even coat. Allow the protector to dry fully before using the bag again. 

Apply regularly to keep your purse looking impeccable and adventure-ready, ensuring it stands the test of time and continues to complement your style!

Step 5. Address Stains Immediately

When it comes to dealing with stains, immediate and careful action is key to protecting your purse from permanent damage.

For minor spills or marks, immediately blot the area with a clean, dry cloth—avoid rubbing, as this can spread the stain!

If you’re dealing with an oil-based stain, sprinkling a bit of talcum powder or cornstarch over the area and letting it sit overnight can work wonders to absorb the oil, which you can then brush it off softly.

That said, consider consulting a professional leather cleaner if you encounter a particularly stubborn stain or one from long ago as some DIY methods can sometimes cause more harm than good, especially on fine leather. 

Step 6. Store Properly

Proper storage is crucial to preserve the beauty and longevity of your leather bags.

When not in use, gently stuff your bag with tissue paper or a dust-free cloth to help maintain its shape. Avoid using newspapers, as the ink can transfer onto the leather!

Rather than using plastic bags, which can trap moisture, opt for a dust bag or a cotton bag to keep your leather bags and store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. 

This simple step can significantly extend the life of your bag, ensuring it looks as stunning as the day you bought it.

Step 7. Less is More

Over-cleaning can be just as harmful as neglecting it altogether. Such overzealous care can strip the leather of its natural oils and degrade its quality. 

Adopt a minimalistic routine that involves spot cleaning as needed, regular dusting, and conditioning every few months, to preserve the leather’s natural beauty without overburdening it with products.

For designer pieces like Thom Browne’s leather purses, less is indeed more. Excessive products can mask the natural charm of high-quality leather, diminishing its allure.

Similarly, it’s crucial to be mindful of how much you load into your leather purse! Luxury bags are made with exceptional materials designed for elegance, not endurance, hence overloading your bag can stretch the leather, warp its shape, and strain the handles. 

If you find that your purse straps are fraying or there’s a minor tear, a tear-mender adhesive can be a quick fix to preserve its integrity until a more professional restoration can be done.

Make a Statement with the Club 21 Designer Leather Collection

Now that you've discovered all the essential tips to keep a leather purse or bag looking its best, there's nothing to stop you from exploring more exquisite options!

Remember, always research the type of leather your apparel or accessories are made of before you proceed with the cleaning process.

Visit Club 21 now to discover a curated selection of leather treasures that embody elegance and craftsmanship. 

Shop now and embrace the enduring allure of luxury leather!