Top Storage Tips for Keeping Leather Bags in Perfect Condition

October 18, 2024

 

 

Investing in a high-quality leather bag means enjoying a durable, stylish accessory that can last a lifetime - if properly cared for. Proper leather bag storage plays a crucial role in maintaining its beauty, preventing wear, and ensuring it stays in perfect condition for years to come. Leather, being a natural material, requires attention to keep it soft, supple, and free from damage.

At Tanner Bates, our handcrafted leather bags are designed with longevity in mind. Here’s how to keep your leather bags looking as good as new with simple yet effective storage techniques.

 

Clean Your Leather Bag Before Storage

Before you store your leather bag, it’s essential to clean it thoroughly. Dust, dirt, and oils from your hands or the environment can accumulate on the leather, leading to damage if not removed. Start by wiping your bag down with a soft, dry cloth to remove surface dust. For deeper cleaning, use a specialised leather cleaner, which is gentle enough to cleanse the leather without stripping its natural oils.

 

If your leather bag has been exposed to rain or moisture, ensure it is fully dry before storing it to avoid mould and mildew. Allow it to air-dry naturally - never use heat, as it can cause the leather to crack.

 

For instance, the Kingsbridge Leather Travel Bag, often exposed to various elements during travel, should always be cleaned after trips to ensure it remains in pristine condition. Proper cleaning is the first step in preventing long-term damage and discolouration.

 

Stuff Your Bag to Maintain Its Shape

Leather bags can lose their shape if stored empty for long periods. Over time, the natural weight of the leather, combined with gravity, can cause creases and sagging. To avoid this, stuff your bag with tissue paper, bubble wrap, or soft cloths. This will help it retain its shape while being stored. It’s important to ensure the stuffing material is not overly rigid or heavy, as this could stretch the leather.

Structured bags, such as the Vixen Leather Tote Bag, benefit particularly from this method. A bag that maintains its shape looks more elegant and professional when you’re ready to use it again. Soft stuffing prevents the bag from flattening out or developing unwanted creases.

 

For smaller bags, stuffing the bag prevents any flattening and helps maintain its compact silhouette. Stuffing is one of the simplest and most effective ways to preserve the original form of your bag.

 

Store in a Dust Bag or Pillowcase

Once cleaned and stuffed, your leather bag needs protection from dust, dirt, and accidental scratches while in storage. Storing your bag in a dust bag or a soft cotton pillowcase is ideal, as these materials allow the leather to breathe. Avoid storing leather in plastic bags, as plastic can trap moisture, leading to mould growth and damage to the leather.

 

A breathable fabric cover also shields the bag from sunlight, which can cause the leather to fade and dry out over time. Whether you’re storing a compact or a larger bag, keeping it in a dust bag ensures it’s protected from harmful environmental elements.

 

Keep Leather Bags in a Cool, Dry Place

Temperature and humidity control are essential when storing leather bags. Heat, sunlight, and high humidity can all damage leather. Excessive heat can cause the leather to dry out and crack, while sunlight fades its natural colour. Meanwhile, high humidity levels can result in mould growth.

 

Always store your leather bags in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources like radiators. Avoid areas like attics or basements that tend to fluctuate in temperature and humidity. Instead, opt for a climate-controlled environment, like a closet or wardrobe, where your leather bags are safe from extreme conditions.

 

Avoid Hanging Leather Bags

While it might seem convenient, hanging your leather bags on hooks for long periods can lead to stretched straps or distorted shapes. The weight of the bag can put stress on the handles, causing them to stretch or even tear over time.

 

Instead of hanging, store your leather bags on a flat surface. Place them upright if possible, or lay them flat on a shelf, especially for larger, heavier bags. If you must hang a bag, ensure it’s empty and only for short periods, such as during use, not long-term storage.

 

Condition the Leather Periodically

Leather, being a natural material, can dry out over time. To keep it soft and supple, it’s important to apply a leather conditioner periodically. Conditioning helps to restore the natural oils in the leather, preventing it from cracking and maintaining its flexibility. Use a high-quality leather conditioner every few months or before storing your bag for a long period.

Here at Tanner Bates, we recommend Gilboy's Leather Conditioner Balsam. It is the best leather conditioner balsam available, locally handmade in small batches, and uses only the finest and all-natural ingredients, including local beeswax that is ethically and sustainably sourced. This ensures your leather bags are nourished and protected with the utmost care.

 

Rotate Your Leather Bags

If you own multiple leather bags, rotating their use can help each one last longer. Using the same bag every day will naturally wear it out faster, while alternating between different bags allows the leather time to rest and recover its shape.

 

For example, rotating between the Vixen Leather Tote Bag and the Venford Hip Bag gives both bags a chance to rest and stay in perfect condition for longer. Leather benefits from periods of rest, as this allows the natural oils to redistribute and the leather to maintain its resilience.

 

Regularly Inspect and Care for Your Leather Bags

Even when in storage, it's important to periodically check on your leather bags. Inspect them for any signs of mould, cracking, or discolouration.

Regular care, such as reapplying leather conditioner or restuffing the bag, will ensure your collection stays in great condition. This proactive approach can help address any potential issues before they become major problems.

 

Conclusion

Proper storage is essential for maintaining the longevity and beauty of your leather bags. By following these top storage tips for leather bags, you can keep your collection in perfect condition for years. Cleaning, stuffing, and using a dust bag, along with placing your bags in a cool, dry location, will ensure your leather bags remain supple and stylish.

 

At Tanner Bates, we are passionate about creating premium leather goods that last. With the right care and storage, your leather bag will continue to look elegant and serve you well for years to come. Visit us today to explore our full range of handcrafted leather products.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Proper Leather Bag Storage and Care

1. How should I clean my leather bag before storing it?

Before storing your leather bag, wipe it down with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and dirt. For deeper cleaning, use a leather cleaner designed for high-quality leather. This helps prevent stains and dirt build-up while in storage.

 

2. Why is stuffing leather bags important when storing them?

Stuffing your leather bag helps maintain its shape during long periods of storage. By using tissue paper, bubble wrap, or soft cloths to fill the bag, you prevent creases, sagging, and distortion, especially in structured bags like tote bags or travel bags.

 

3. Can I store my leather bag in plastic bags?

No, storing leather bags in plastic bags is not recommended. Plastic can trap moisture, leading to mould and mildew. Instead, use breathable dust bags or cotton pillowcases to protect your leather bag while allowing airflow.

 

4. Where should I store my leather bags to keep them in good condition?

Store your leather bags in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Excessive heat and humidity can damage the leather by causing it to dry out, crack, or fade. A climate-controlled environment like a wardrobe or closet is ideal.

 

5. How often should I condition my leather bag?

To keep your leather bag soft and supple, apply a leather conditioner every few months. This prevents the leather from drying out and cracking, especially before long-term storage. Regular conditioning is key to maintaining your leather bag’s quality.

 

6. Can I hang my leather bag for storage?

Hanging your leather bag for long periods is not recommended, as this can stretch the straps and distort the bag's shape. Instead, store the bag flat or upright on a shelf to maintain its form, especially for heavier leather bags like travel bags.

 

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