Leather bag care instructions

Leather Bag Care: Cleaning, Protection, and Maintenance

A leather bag is a timeless and durable purchase that only gets better with age, especially if you have the care instructions. To keep leather soft, supple and beautiful, it needs regular maintenance. This guide will take you through the care, cleaning, protection and proper storage of your leather bag, and answer the most common questions about caring for genuine leather.

1. Why is leather bag care important?

Genuine leather is a natural material that lives and changes over time. If it is not cared for, it can dry out, crack, lose its color or stretch too much. With proper care, you can:

✅ Extends the life of your bag – A well-maintained leather bag will last for decades.
✅ Preserves the value of the bag – Well-maintained leather looks good and retains its value.
✅ Prevents color fading and staining – Protective treatment prevents dirt from absorbing.
✅ Keeps leather soft and supple – Leather creams prevent drying and cracking.

2. Leather bag cleaning for different leather types

Different types of leather have their own care needs. Not all leathers can be cared for in the same way, and the wrong cleaning products can even damage the surface.

Different types of leather and how to identify them

Before we get into the care of leather bags, it's important to understand what types of leather there are. Identifying the different types of leather will help you choose the right care methods and products.

Marted leather

Grained leather refers to leather that has a surface that is embossed or "grained." It can be naturally wrinkled or treated to have a smooth but slightly textured pattern on the surface.

✅ Identification: Lightly textured surface that feels slightly rough but not shaggy.
✅ Features: Durable, highly resistant to wear and dirt.
✅ Care: Gently wipe the surface of the bag with a dry microfiber cloth to remove dust and dirt.
Avoid abrasive materials (rough cloth, paper towels) that can scratch the surface.

Nappa leather

Nappa leather is a very soft and smooth leather that feels pleasant to the touch. It is usually made from high-quality calfskin or sheepskin and is treated to maintain its elasticity.

✅ Identification: Very smooth and soft surface with no visible pattern.
✅ Features: Soft, adaptable, but also more sensitive to scratches and stains.
✅ Care: Wipe lightly with a damp cloth and use a mild conditioner that does not contain harsh chemicals.

Vegetable tanned leather (Bioleather)

Vegetable tanned leather is an ecological alternative. It is untreated, naturally tanned leather that develops a patina over time. It is more sensitive to moisture than chrome-tanned leather, but it ages beautifully.

✅ Identification: Natural color, may darken over time and look vibrant.
✅ Features: Breathable, natural and ecological alternative.
✅ Care instructions: Use mild care products, avoid water and protect the bag regularly. Wipe the surface of the bag with a dry microfiber cloth to remove dust and dirt. Rub small scratches with your fingertips, as the skin's natural oils help smooth out the marks.

Nubuck

Nubuck is a polished full-grain leather that is similar to suede but is slightly more durable. Its velvety surface gives it a luxurious look, but it is susceptible to stains.

✅ Identification: Soft, matte and velvety surface.
✅ Features: Stylish appearance, but easily absorbs moisture and dirt.
✅ Care instructions: Use a brush designed for nubuck and protect with a moisture protection spray. Avoid water as it can leave permanent marks.

Suede

Suede is made from the inside of leather, which gives it a soft, plush surface. It resembles nubuck leather, but its texture is slightly more porous.

✅ Identification: Soft and rough surface that feels fluffy.
✅ Features: Lightweight and breathable, but very sensitive to dirt and water.
✅ Care instructions: Brush regularly with a suede brush. Use a moisture protection spray and avoid washing with water.

Deep cleaning of a leather bag:

✅ Dampen a soft cloth in lukewarm water and add a little Marseille soap.
✅Gently rub the surface of the bag in a circular motion. Wipe off the soapy water with a clean, damp cloth.
✅ Let the bag dry at room temperature - do not use a hair dryer or radiator to dry it.
✅ Apply a moisturizing conditioner to the leather and let it absorb overnight.

3. Leather bag protection and moisture protection

Why is moisture protection important?

Leather is not a completely waterproof material, and unprotected leather will absorb water, which can cause stains, cracking, or color fading.

Moisture protection steps:

✅ Choose the right protector – For example, Collonil Protect & Care is suitable for most leather types.
✅ Spray the protective agent from a distance of 30 cm, evenly over the entire surface of the bag.
✅ Let it dry for at least 12 hours before using the bag.
✅ Re-treatment as needed, especially before rainy seasons.

4. Stain removal and common problems

How to remove grease stains from leather?

✅ Do not rub the stain! It can spread deeper into the leather.
✅ Sprinkle talcum powder or cornstarch on the stain and let it sit overnight.
✅ Wipe off with a soft cloth.

How to remove ink stains from leather?

✅ It is best to wipe a fresh ink stain immediately with a lightly damp cloth.
✅ Old ink stains are difficult to remove and may require professional cleaning.

How do I prevent the bag from stretching?

✅ Do not overpack the bag – the leather can stretch and lose its shape.
✅ Always choose the size of the bag according to its intended use.

5. Leather bag storage

Storing your bag properly will help keep it in shape and protect the surface from wear and tear.

✅ Store the bag in its own protective bag.
✅ Do not use a plastic bag – it does not breathe and can cause mold to form.
✅ Fill the bag with lightly crumpled tissue paper or newspaper to keep it from losing its shape.
✅ Keep the bag out of direct sunlight, which can fade the color.

Utua's Themis backpack glows beautifully in vegetable-tanned leather.