Luxury leather items are a valuable investment, both emotionally and financially. That gorgeous bag or wallet deserves to look its finest for years to come. However, unlike your favourite cotton tee, leather requires a little extra attention to retain its suppleness, gloss, and general durability. Fear not, leather lovers! With a few basic cleaning and storing practices, you can ensure that your valuable possessions age gracefully.
Clean Your Leather Like a Pro:
Begin with prevention: The best approach to clean leather is to avoid the need for intensive cleaning in the first place. When handling leather goods, always keep your hands clean and avoid harsh chemicals or oily substances. Act quickly to wipe up spills with a clean, absorbent cloth.
The Gentle Touch: Regular dusting is essential. Use a soft, microfibre cloth to remove ordinary dirt. For a more thorough cleaning, dampen the cloth with distilled water; avoid tap water, which might include minerals that dull the leather. Allow the leather to thoroughly dry before using your purse again.
Fight Stains with Household Staples:
Certain stains can be treated using household objects as a first line of defence. Here’s what you can try:
Grease/oil stains: Apply baking soda or cornstarch on the stain, allow it to sit for a few hours to absorb the oil, and then remove with a soft cloth.
Water Stains: Gently blot the stain with a clean, moist towel. Stuff the bag with clean, dry rags or tissue paper to help it keep its shape while drying. Never use heat to dry leather bags!
DIY Cleaning Solution: If you are apprehensive to use store-bought cleaners, you can make your own gentle solution at home. In a spray bottle, mix equal parts white vinegar and distilled water. This solution should be lightly misted onto a microfiber cloth and used to clean the leather. Important: Always try this solution in a hidden location first to ensure that it does not affect the colour of the leather.
Deodorize Naturally: Leather absorbs scents over time. To freshen your bag, leave an open box of baking soda inside for a few hours. Baking soda absorbs odours naturally, leaving no residue or scent.
Clean the Hardware: Do not forget the hardware! Use a moist cloth to clean zippers, clasps, and other metal components. To clean tight crevices, use a Q-tip dipped in rubbing alcohol.
Condition with Care: Leather naturally dries out over time. Conditioning on periodically is necessary to maintain it elastic and avoid cracking. Choose a high-quality leather conditioner and apply a small coating with a soft cloth, then softly buff it. Remember: a little goes a long way!
By following these simple cleaning techniques, you can keep your luxury leather goods looking great for years. After all, a little TLC may go a long way toward maintaining the timeless elegance and craftsmanship of your favourite leather pieces.
