In that it is not man-made, leather qualifies as a natural fibre. It needs occasional maintenance and conditioning because it is an organic substance to maintain its best appearance over time. Most leather types are covered by this guide. We also have a full section dedicated to leathers that require special care.
How to treat a leather bag
Depending on the bag and the leather that has been used to create it, there are certain things to think about when you’ve bought your bag.
Most bags require some infrequent care such as occasional conditioning but other more sensitive leathers do need attention before you go on to use them.
General protection
Applying a leather cream or wax is a good idea for most leather bags, as it adds a layer of protection to the bag’s finish, repelling superficial scratches and scuffs.
Choose a cream containing natural waxes: they give a rich look and act as a barrier against dirt and moisture.
During usage
Caring for a leather bag is quite similar to caring for your skin as both benefit greatly from a good moisturizer, especially as we age. After you've worn your bag for a month or so, it's going to lose some of its original lusters.
A good rule of thumb when caring for any of your leather goods; is to reapply leather cream or oil every few months, or as needed.
What can happen to leather?
Even if you care for your leather regularly, this doesn't prevent it from encountering everyday issues such as scratches, water damage, or stains. However, you can take some preventative measures, above and beyond regular cleaning and weatherproofing.
Dealing with scratches
Unfortunately, scratches are inevitable when you take your briefcase or bag out with you but don't despair, if and when you come across a small scuff. We have a full article on removing scratches which will give you the more detailed information.
But here are some quick tips for dealing with scratches;
- Clean the leather
- Smooth it out with conditioner
- Repeat, if necessary
General leather bag care tips and tricks
Long-term storage
Store the bags you don't use daily in their dust covers, preferably in a closet or at the very least away from direct sunlight. To keep the bag's shape or to gain it back after using it, fill it with something like bubble wrap or paper. Make sure not to use newspaper as the print on it can rub off onto the inside.
A good tip is to condition, fill and store your briefcase when you go on holiday. Just give it some treatment with a leather cream before inserting it into its dust cover until you return to the office.
Tips for women
Keep your cosmetics in a bag, so that when the lid of your lipstick falls off or the blusher spills out, your bag's interior is protected. It's a smart idea to put all of your liquids into small cosmetic bags as leaky shampoo, etc. is hard to remove.
Tips for men
All your personal effects such as pens, deodorant, and cologne should be stowed away in a separate wash bag. Even the most secure pen top will eventually wiggle off, dribbling a trail of blue or black ink spots.
Along with our tips and tricks, all you should ever need to take care of your fine leather briefcases, bags, and accessories is a good leather cream and waterproofing spray combined with your warmth care for the bag.
