How to Clean Leather Purse

Although leather is highly resistant to wear and tear, without proper care and maintenance, your leather items, including handbags, can lose their shape and integrity. After all, leather is a natural material that is prone to absorbing oils and dust and can be affected by factors like sunlight, heat, moisture, and dirt.

Leaving stains and spills on your leather purse can lead to permanent damage if not addressed promptly. Over time, the stains will seep into the leather, setting into the material and becoming much harder, if not impossible, to remove. Moreover, certain substances, like oils or acidic liquids, can deteriorate the leather’s surface, leading to discoloration, cracking, or dryness. 

Analyzing the Stains on Your Purse

To effectively clean your leather purse, it’s important to know what type of stain you are dealing with, as each type of stain may require different techniques.

Some of the most common stains found on leather purses are: 

• Water stains from raindrops or spills 
• Oil or grease stains are caused by food, hand creams, or natural oils on your skin. This type of stain tends to darken the leather and is generally harder to remove. 
• Ink stains from pen leaks or accidental marks. 
• Dye transfer from jeans or other fabrics. 
• Cosmetic stains, including foundation, lipstick, or eyeshadow. 
• Beverage stains such as alcohol and other drinks. 
• Mould and mildew caused by poor storage. 

If the stain is fresh, superficial, and hasn’t soaked into the leather, basic cleaning is usually sufficient. This includes light dust, recent water spills without mineral marks, and minor soiling. On the other hand, if the stain has set into the leather, appears to be from a substance known to penetrate deeply (like ink, oil, or dye), or if the leather has discoloured, you’ll likely need a deep cleaning.

Best Way to Clean Leather Purse

Now that we’ve established the importance of determining the type of stain you’re dealing with, the next step is to empty your purse and proceed to the cleaning process. 

Basic Leather Purse Cleaning

Basic leather purse cleaning usually involves the removal of surface dust, dirt, and light stains from your handbag with gentle cleaning methods.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on cleaning a leather purse using basic cleaning techniques. 

1. Empty out your purse and make sure to remove all the items. Turn your purse’s lining inside out and use a lint roller to remove the dust. 
2. If you notice any visible stains or spots on the purse, dampen the clean cloth with water and add a small amount of mild soap or leather cleaner. Wring out any excess liquid to avoid over-saturating the leather.
3. Proceed with gently cleaning the rest of the purse with a dampened cloth. Gently wipe your purse in a circular motion. Avoid scrubbing too vigorously, as this could damage the leather’s finish. Instead, use gentle pressure to lift the stain without spreading it further.
4. Separate clean cloth dampened with water to remove any excess soap or cleaner residue. Again, be careful not to over-saturate the leather.
5. Once the purse is clean, use a dry, clean cloth to pat the leather dry. Avoid using heat sources like hairdryers, as they can cause the leather to dry out and crack.

Leather Purse Deep Cleaning Process

If your leather purse has deeply ingrained stains, such as ink, oil, or dye transfer, then you’ll have to use deep cleaning methods. These stains penetrate deep into the leather, making them resistant to basic cleaning techniques.

Deep cleaning involves using specialized leather cleaners or stain removers designed to target specific types of stains. Here’s a helpful guide on how to deep clean your leather purse:

1. Do a small spot test of your chosen cleaner or stain remover on a hidden area to see if it causes any damage or discolouration before applying it to the rest of the purse. 
2. If the small spot on your purse with the stain remover or cleaner does not cause any damage or discolouration, you can proceed to apply a small amount of the cleaner or stain remover to a clean sponge or brush. 
3. Make sure to work the solution into the stained areas of the purse, using gentle circular motions.
4. Gently scrub the stains with the sponge or brush, focusing on one section at a time. Do not use too much pressure, and avoid oversaturating the leather. 
5. Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe away any excess cleaner or residue from the purse. Ensure that all traces of the cleaning solution are removed to prevent any potential damage to the leather.
6. Make sure to air dry your leather purse in a well-ventilated area, away from direct heat or sunlight. Avoid using a hairdryer or other heat sources, as this can cause the leather to become brittle and crack.
7. Once the purse is completely dry, apply a small amount of leather conditioner to a soft cloth. Gently massage the conditioner into the leather, focusing on areas that may have become dry or damaged during the cleaning process.
8. Use a clean, dry cloth to buff the purse gently, removing any excess conditioner. 
9. Inspect the purse thoroughly to ensure that all stains have been removed and the leather is in good condition. 
10. Store the purse in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent any further damage or discoloration. 

Helpful Tips for Dealing with Specific Stains on Your Leather Purse 

If you are dealing with any of the following stains, applying these recommendations along with the leather purse deep cleaning process explained above should help you tackle even the most stubborn stains.

• Ink Stains: Mix one part white vinegar with two parts water. Apply with a cloth to the stain, then dab gently until the stain lifts. Dry with a clean cloth.
• Red Wine: Immediately sprinkle salt over the stain to absorb the wine. After a few hours, brush away the salt and clean the area with a damp cloth soaked in mild detergent.
• Oil Stains: Put cornstarch on the stain and rub gently with a soft brush. Let it sit overnight, then brush off the cornstarch and clean the area with a mild soap solution.
• Water Stains: Use a soft brush to gently spread the water stain. Wipe with a damp cloth to even out the stain, then allow the purse to air dry away from direct sunlight.

How to Preserve Your Leather Purse 

In addition to cleaning your leather purse regularly, it’s also important to provide proper care to your purse. After investing in a premium leather bag, it makes sense that you’d want to maximize its lifespan and keep it looking its best for as long as possible.

Start by storing your purse in a dust bag or a breathable cotton bag to protect it from dust and scratches. Keep it filled with bubble wrap or soft cloth to maintain its shape. 

Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight and water, which can cause fading and staining. Condition your purse every few months with a leather conditioner to keep the material soft and prevent cracks. For daily care, a quick wipe with a dry, soft cloth can remove surface dust and maintain its shine.
You should also consider getting professional purse cleaning at least once a year to ensure any deep-set dirt and stains are thoroughly removed. Love Your Purse has the right tools and techniques to preserve the quality of your leather without causing damage. We provide purse cleaning, purse repair, luggage cleaning and repair, as well as boot cleaning, and more.