November 14, 2023

How to Store Your Leather Bags Properly

Leather bags, especially those made of high-quality, full-grain leather, will last for decades with the proper care. If you know how to store your bag correctly, it will maintain its quality, keep it looking great, and prolong its lifespan. 

Whether it's your most reliable leather shoulder bag or a gorgeous, unique clutch, the proper storage will ensure you can enjoy your accessory for years and years and pass it on to a future generation. 

Let's discuss the crucial aspects of preparing your bag for storage and selecting the ideal location. We'll also discuss the correct bag placement, long-term storage tips, and necessary maintenance and care, all of which are vital for preserving the quality of your leather bag.

PREPARING YOUR LEATHER BAG FOR STORAGE

Before storing your leather bag, it's essential to prepare it properly to prevent damage.

CLEANING THE BAG

Follow these steps to clean your bag before storing it:

  • Remove all items. Empty your bag, including all interior and exterior pockets and compartments.
  • Dust and wipe down the bag. Remove any surface dirt or particles to keep your bag clean and fresh. Start by gently dusting the exterior with a soft, dry cloth or a soft-bristled brush. Pay attention to crevices and corners where dust usually builds up. 
  • Spot clean the bag. To spot-clean your bag before storage, use a mild leather cleaner formulated for your specific type of leather. Apply a small amount of cleaner to a clean cloth and gently blot the stained area. Be gentle to avoid damaging the material. Follow the manufacturer's instructions or consult a professional cleaner if necessary.
  • Allow the bag to dry. After spot-cleaning the bag, let it air dry before conditioning. To prevent leather cracking or shrinking, avoid using direct heat sources, such as hair dryers or radiators.

CONDITIONING THE LEATHER

For full-grain leather bags, like the ones we craft here at Latico, we advise against using any leather conditioner to treat the bag. However, top-grain and "genuine" leathers will require regular conditioning. This step nourishes the leather, replenishes the natural oils, and prevents it from drying out and cracking.

  • Choose the right conditioner. Leather must be moisturized to maintain its suppleness. Select a high-quality leather conditioner suitable for your bag's specific type of leather. To reiterate, you should not use a conditioner on full-grain leather.
  • Test the leather. You will eventually apply conditioner to the entire bag, but first, test the formula in a small, hard-to-see area to check for any discoloration or damage. If the conditioner passes the test, you can proceed to the next step.
  • Apply the conditioner. Add a small amount of conditioner to a clean, soft cloth and apply it to the bag using gentle, circular motions. Distribute the conditioner evenly over the entire surface, paying extra attention to areas prone to dryness, such as the handles and corners.
  • Allow time for absorption. After applying the conditioner, let your bag rest for a few hours or overnight before using or storing it.
  • After your bag has had time to absorb the conditioner fully, remove any excess conditioner gently with a clean cloth. This step eliminates any residue and will result in a smooth finish.

    CHOOSING THE RIGHT STORAGE LOCATION

    Please choose the right storage location for your leather bag to maintain its quality and prevent damage. Temperature, humidity, and light can impact leather's condition, which we'll discuss in a second. But first, these are the most common places to store a handbag.

    WHERE TO STORE YOUR BAG

    • The bedroom: Choose a clean, dry corner or a dedicated shelf in your bedroom. A dedicated wall rack will make finding and coordinating bags with your outfits easier.
    • The closet: Arrange your leather bags on shelves or hanging organizers in your wardrobe to keep their shapes intact and avoid clutter. This approach shields bags from direct sunlight and dust, further helping to maintain their quality.
    • Another small space: In tight areas, utilize over-the-door hangers, under-bed storage boxes, or vertical dividers. These solutions help you maximize limited space and keep your bags accessible without appearing cluttered.

    TEMPERATURE AND HUMIDITY CONTROL

    • Maintain an optimal temperature range. Keep your leather bags in an environment with a consistent temperature between 60°F (15°C) and 70°F (21°C). Extreme temperatures can cause cracks or warping as the leather expands and contracts, so avoid storing your bags in areas prone to excessive heat or cold.
    • Check your humidity levels. You should maintain a relative humidity between 40% and 50% in the storage area. High humidity promotes mold or mildew, while low humidity can cause the leather to dry and crack. Place a dehumidifier near your bags to reduce moisture and prevent mold buildup.

    PROTECTION FROM SUNLIGHT AND ARTIFICIAL LIGHT

    • Avoid direct sunlight. Store bags away from windows or use curtains or blinds to block out sunlight, which can cause fading and discoloration.
    • Minimize exposure to artificial light. Prolonged exposure to artificial light sources, such as fluorescent bulbs or spotlights, can cause color fading and damage the leather. If possible, store your bags in a dark or dimly lit area.

    VENTILATION AND AIR CIRCULATION

    • Ensure adequate ventilation. Leather needs good ventilation to prevent the buildup of musty odors and moisture. Maintaining good air circulation helps keep the leather fresh and prevents mold or mildew growth.
    • Avoid airtight containers. While it may be tempting to store leather bags in sealed containers for protection, airtight containers can trap moisture and promote mold, so they should be avoided. Breathable bags are a better choice.

    PROTECTION FROM DUST AND DEBRIS

    • Clean storage surfaces. Before storing your leather bags, clean your storage surface to remove dust or debris.
    • Utilize dust bags or covers. Store your leather bags in breathable fabric dust bags or cotton pillowcases for protection. Covers help prevent dust accumulation and shield the bags from scratches.

    REPAIRING SCRATCHES & SCUFFS

    After cleaning a leather bag, it's time to inspect it for scratches and scuffs. With the proper techniques and tools, you can improve the look of damaged leather or even restore your leather bag. 

    • Assess the leather. First, assess the leather, checking for damage, scratches, and scuffs. How deep are the imperfections? You can buff superficial surface scratches, but deeper scratches may require additional treatment.
    • Use a leather conditioner. For light scratches, apply a small amount of leather conditioner. Gently rub it into the leather using a soft cloth or your fingertips — this helps to restore the original color and texture. Remember, this step only applies to lower-quality leathers, like top-grain and genuine leather. We don't recommend using a conditioner on any of Latico's full-grain, sustainable leather bags.
    • Try a leather repair kit. Consider using a leather repair kit if the scratches are more severe or the leather conditioner does not fully repair the damage. These kits typically include a color-matching compound or filler, an adhesive, and various tools for application.
    • Apply the color-matching compound. Using a small spatula or the provided applicator, apply a small amount to the scratch or scuff. Carefully follow the instructions with the kit for the proper application technique.
    • Smooth and blend the compound. Use a soft cloth or fingertip to blend the color-matching compound into the surrounding leather. Apply light pressure and smooth out the excess compound to achieve a seamless appearance.
    • Let the compound dry. Follow the instructions for the recommended drying time in the leather repair kit. Avoid touching or placing objects on the repaired area.
    • Buff and polish the leather. Once the compound has dried, gently buff the repaired area with a soft cloth to smooth any unevenness. You can also use a leather conditioner or polish to restore the luster of the repaired section. Hence, it matches the rest of the bag.

    PROPER LEATHER BAG PLACEMENT

    Arrange and organize your bags for optimal longevity and shape maintenance. If you have multiple bags to store, consider using shelf dividers to create separate compartments for each bag so they don't lean or collapse onto each other. You can invest in purse inserts or organizers to maintain bag shape and support.

    STUFF BAGS WITH ACID-FREE TISSUE PAPER OR BUBBLE WRAP

    • Preserve the shape. To keep the shape of your leather bags and prevent them from collapsing or wrinkling, stuff them with acid-free tissue paper or bubble wrap. Fill the bag's interior gently, and do not overstuff it.
    • Avoid using newspaper or colored tissue paper. Ink or dye may stain the leather, so stick to acid-free tissue paper or bubble wrap.

    ARRANGE BAGS IN AN UPRIGHT POSITION

    • Opt for upright storage. Store your bags in an upright position whenever possible. This helps prevent strain on the handles or straps and maintains the bag's shape.
    • Utilize bag stands or hooks. If your bags have sturdy handles, you can hang them to keep them upright and allow air circulation, reducing the chances of mold or mildew growth.

    ROTATE BAGS PERIODICALLY

    • Avoid prolonged pressure. To prevent permanent creasing or deformation, rotate your bags periodically. If a bag stays in the same position for an extended period, it may develop permanent marks or creases. By rotating the bags every few months, you redistribute the pressure and maintain their shape.
    • Note the weight distribution. If multiple bags are on a shelf, be mindful of the weight distribution. Avoid placing heavier bags on lighter ones to prevent unnecessary strain and deformation.

    LONG-TERM STORAGE TIPS

    Taking additional precautions is essential when storing leather bags for an extended period.

    CLEAN AND CONDITION BEFORE STORAGE

    Clean and condition your bags before storing them long-term. Let the bags fully dry to avoid the risk of mold or mildew growing. Even if the bags are dehydrated before storage, you should ensure the storage area receives proper ventilation. 

    USE SILICA GEL OR MOISTURE ABSORBERS

    Proper moisture control is essential for long-term storage. To prevent mold or mildew growth, place silica gel packets or moisture absorbers in the storage area to remove excess moisture and maintain a dry environment. Avoid having the moisture absorbers directly contact the leather to prevent damage or staining.

    REGULARLY CHECK & AIR OUT BAGS

    Even during long-term storage, you should check your bags periodically. Inspect them for any signs of mold, mildew, or pests. If you notice any issues, address them immediately to prevent further damage.

    Air out your bags by opening the storage area or removing them from their covers. Allowing the bags to breathe briefly can help maintain their freshness and prevent musty odors from developing.

    MORE MAINTENANCE & CARE TIPS

    AVOID MOISTURE

    Protect your leather bags from excess moisture—it can damage the leather. Avoid using them in rainy or highly humid conditions, and be cautious of spills or splashes. If your bag gets wet, gently pat it with a soft cloth and let it air dry naturally.

    HANDLE WITH CLEAN HANDS

    Handle leather bags with clean hands to prevent the transfer of oils, dirt, or other substances that can stain or damage the leather. If you've applied hand lotion or other products, wait until they absorb before handling your bag.

    HANDLE HARDWARE WITH CARE

    Pay attention to the hardware on your leather bags, such as zippers, buckles, or clasps. Wipe them gently with a soft cloth to keep them clean and functional. Avoid excessive force when operating the hardware, as it can cause damage or scratches.

    PROFESSIONAL CLEANING & RESTORATION

    If your leather bag requires deep cleaning or restoration, it's best to seek professional assistance. Professional cleaners and leather care specialists have the expertise and tools to tackle more stubborn stains or issues.

    Before hiring a professional cleaner for your leather bags, ask whether they specialize in leather care. Research the company or individual thoroughly.

    Now, you should better understand how crucial it is to store leather bags properly to maintain quality and longevity. It's as simple as preparing the bags for storage, choosing the right storage location, placing them correctly, and employing long-term storage tips. Remember to carry out regular maintenance to keep your bags in top condition. By applying these guidelines, your leather bags will remain well-preserved for many years.

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    Written by Kelsey Dunneback