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PRODUCT CARE
LEATHER CARE
SUEDE CARE
1. Protect from Environmental Damage
• Avoid Sunlight and Heat: Leather is sensitive to prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, which can cause it to dry out, fade, or become brittle. Likewise, exposure to heat sources, like radiators or heaters, can damage the leather’s natural oils, leading to cracks.
• Prevent Dampness: Leather is not water-resistant. Prolonged exposure to damp conditions can lead to mold or mildew, while water stains may discolour the bag. If your bag gets wet, gently pat it dry with a soft cloth and let it air dry naturally (never use a hairdryer or heater).
2. Clean Regularly, But Gently
• Routine Cleaning: Wipe down your bag once a week with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and debris. Use a soft brush for any textured or grained leather to get into crevices.
• Dealing with Stains: For light soiling, use a slightly damp (not wet!) cloth to gently wipe the leather. Always test on a small, inconspicuous area first.
• Avoid Harsh Cleaners: Skip alcohol-based wipes, bleach, or detergents, as these can strip away the leather’s protective oils and cause cracking or discolouration. Stick to pH-balanced leather cleaners when necessary.
3. Condition to Maintain Suppleness
• Why Condition? Leather, like skin, can dry out over time, losing its elasticity and sheen. Conditioning restores moisture and keeps the material soft and flexible.
• How to Condition: Use a dedicated leather conditioner or a natural mixture of equal parts white vinegar and linseed oil. Apply a small amount to a soft, lint-free cloth, and rub it into the leather using circular motions. Let the bag absorb the conditioner, then wipe off any excess. Allow it to dry completely in a shaded, ventilated area before use.
• Frequency: Condition your leather bag every few months, or more often if the leather appears dry or if you live in a dry climate.
4. Store Properly When Not in Use
• Maintain Shape: Stuff the bag with acid-free tissue paper or a soft, clean fabric (like an old cotton T-shirt). Avoid newspaper, as the ink may transfer onto the leather.
• Dust Protection: Store the bag in a breathable dust bag or pillowcase. Avoid plastic bags, as they can trap moisture and promote mildew.
• Optimal Storage Conditions: Keep your leather bag in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, humidity, or extreme temperatures. Avoid stacking heavy items on top of it, as this can deform its shape.
5. Handle with Care
• Avoid Overloading: Leather can stretch permanently under too much weight, weakening the structure of the bag. Carry only essentials to preserve its original shape.
• Prevent Scratches: Be mindful of sharp objects like pens, keys, or jewellery that could puncture or scratch the leather.
• Gentle Cleaning After Use: If your bag has metal hardware, like zippers or clasps, wipe them down occasionally to prevent tarnish or oxidation. This also prevents stains from transferring to the leather.
6. Repair and Protect
• Use Waterproofing Sprays Sparingly: Some leather types can benefit from a light coating of leather-protectant spray, but always test on a small area first. Use sparingly, as over-application can clog the leather’s pores.
• Professional Repairs: For deeper scratches, cracks, or other damage, consult a professional leather repair service rather than attempting DIY fixes that may worsen the issue.
Extra Tips for Long-Lasting Leather Bags
• Rotate Usage: If you own multiple leather bags, rotate them to avoid overusing and wearing out a single one.
• Be Aware of Dye Transfer: Dark denim or brightly coloured fabrics may transfer dye to lighter leather bags. To prevent this, avoid prolonged contact between the bag and such clothing.
• Refresh Periodically: If your leather bag starts to lose its shine, lightly buff it with a soft, dry cloth after cleaning or conditioning to restore its natural luster.
1. Protect Suede from Water and Moisture
• Why It’s Important: Suede is a delicate material with a soft, porous texture that can absorb liquids easily, leading to stains or stiffness.
• How to Protect:
• Apply a suede-specific waterproofing spray when the bag is new and reapply it periodically, especially before exposure to wet conditions. These sprays create a protective barrier to repel water and minor stains.
• If your bag gets wet, blot it gently with a dry cloth to remove excess moisture and let it air dry naturally. Never use heat to speed up the drying process.
2. Regular Cleaning to Maintain the Nap
• Use a Suede Brush: A suede brush with soft bristles is ideal for cleaning the surface and keeping the nap (the raised fibres that give suede its velvety texture) fresh. Brush gently in one consistent direction to lift dirt and restore the texture.
• Avoid Liquids: Never use water, as it can leave marks or harden the material. For light cleaning, a soft, dry cloth can also be used to gently remove dust.
• Prevent Build-Up: Clean your suede bag weekly to avoid the accumulation of dirt and oils, which can settle into the fibres and become harder to remove.
3. Removing Stains and Scuffs
• Suede Rubber or Eraser: For minor stains or scuff marks, use a suede rubber (or a clean pencil eraser) to gently rub the affected area. Work on the stain lightly and gradually to avoid damaging the material.
• For Persistent Stains: If stains remain, use a suede cleaner designed specifically for delicate materials. Always test the cleaner on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t discolour or damage the suede.
• Oil or Grease Stains: Sprinkle cornstarch or talcum powder on the stain and let it sit overnight to absorb the oil. Brush off the powder with a suede brush in the morning.
4. Proper Storage to Preserve Shape and Quality
• Cool and Dry Storage: Suede is sensitive to humidity and heat, which can warp its texture or cause mold. Always store your bag in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or damp environments.
• Shape Maintenance: Stuff the bag with acid-free tissue paper or soft fabric to maintain its structure and prevent sagging. Avoid using newspaper, as the ink can transfer onto the suede.
• Dust Protection: Keep your suede bag in a breathable dust bag or cotton pillowcase to protect it from dust and moisture. Avoid plastic bags, as they can trap humidity.
5. Handle Suede Bags with Care
• Avoid Rubbing: Be mindful of friction when carrying your suede bag, especially when wearing denim or brightly coloured fabrics, as dye transfer can stain the material.
• Prevent Scratches: Keep sharp objects like keys or pens away from the bag to avoid puncturing or scratching the delicate surface.
• Keep Away from Heat: Avoid exposing your suede bag to direct heat or flames, as high temperatures can stiffen the fibres or cause irreparable damage.
6. Refresh the Nap When Needed
• Steam for Revitalization: Hold the bag over a pot of boiling water (at a safe distance) or use a handheld steamer to loosen the fibres gently. Afterward, use a suede brush to restore the nap.
• Use Fine Sandpaper for Tough Spots: For deeper scuffs or matted areas, lightly rub with fine-grit sandpaper (1000-grit or finer) to even out the texture. Be very gentle to avoid over-thinning the material.
Extra Tips for Long-Lasting Suede Bags
• Rotate Usage: Avoid using the same suede bag daily to give it time to recover from wear.
• Prevent Dye Transfer: Be cautious of dark or brightly coloured clothes that might rub against the suede, especially on rainy or humid days.
• Deodorize Naturally: If the bag develops an odour, sprinkle baking soda inside the bag and let it sit overnight before shaking it out.
PRODUCT CARE
LEATHER CARE
Leather bags can be delicate, but with proper care, they can last for years. Here are some tips on how to care for your leather bag:
1. Avoid exposing your bag to direct sunlight, extreme heat, or dampness. These conditions can cause the leather to crack or fade.
2. Clean your leather bag regularly with a soft cloth or brush. If it becomes soiled, use a damp cloth to wipe it clean. Avoid using harsh chemicals or detergents, as they can damage the leather.
3. Condition your leather bag periodically to keep it soft and supple. You can use a leather conditioner or a mixture of equal parts of white vinegar and linseed oil. Apply the conditioner to a soft cloth and rub it gently into the leather. Let it dry completely before using the bag.
4. Store your leather bag in a cool, dry place when you're not using it. Stuff the bag with tissue paper to help it retain its shape, and keep it in a dust bag or pillowcase to protect it from dust and moisture.
5. Handle your leather bag with care. Avoid overstuffing it or carrying heavy items that could cause the leather to stretch or tear. Also, be careful not to scratch or puncture the leather with sharp objects.
By following these simple tips, you can help extend the life of your leather bag and keep it looking beautiful for years to come.
SUEDE CARE
Suede bags are stylish and versatile, but they require special care to keep them looking their best. Here are some tips on how to care for your suede bag:
1. Protect your suede bag from water and moisture. Suede is a porous material that can be easily damaged by water. You can use a waterproofing spray to protect your bag from rain or spills.
2. Clean your suede bag regularly with a suede brush or a soft, dry cloth. Brush the suede gently in one direction to remove dirt and restore the nap. Avoid using water or liquid cleaners, as they can stain or damage the suede.
3. Use a suede rubber to remove stubborn stains or scuffs. Rub the rubber gently over the stain until it disappears. If the stain persists, you can try using a suede cleaner, but be sure to test it in an inconspicuous area first.
4. Store your suede bag in a cool, dry place when you're not using it. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight or in a damp or humid environment. Stuff the bag with tissue paper to help it retain its shape, and keep it in a dust bag to protect it from dust and moisture.
5. Handle your suede bag with care. Avoid rubbing or scratching the suede with sharp objects, and be careful not to expose it to heat or flames.
By following these simple tips, you can help extend the life of your suede bag and keep it looking beautiful for years to come.