That leather bag has been in use for a couple of years, and boy, is it showing its age. Everyday use can lead to many scuffs, marks, and stains on leather. I will discuss how to clean a leather bag step by step in just minutes.
How to clean a leather bag is the process of using varying techniques to remove dirt and grime from the surface of a leather bag to restore its appearance. A leather bag can be cleaned with leather cleaner or pH-neutral soap and water, but following the bag manufacturer’s instructions is often best.
Do you have an old leather purse collecting dust that you’re unsure how to clean? There are simple yet effective methods of cleaning a leather bag at home that don’t require any special materials.
What Is Cleaning a Leather Bag?
Cleaning a leather bag removes debris, dirt, marks, and stains while protecting the fibers and any protective finishes. This can be accomplished with leather cleaner or pH-neutral soap and water, followed with a leather conditioner for a leather bag that looks as good as new.
What We’ll Explore
- Clearing up Myths & Misconceptions
- Reasons You Might Choose To Clean a Leather Bag
- Variations or Styles Cleaning a Leather Bag
- How To Clean a Leather Bag Overview Table
- Skill Level Cleaning a Leather Bag
- Tools and Supplies Needed To Clean a Leather Bag
- How To Clean a Leather Bag Step by Step
- How To Get Better at How To Clean a Leather Bag
- My Personal Research on How To Clean a Leather Bag
- Helpful Insights on How To Clean a Leather Bag
- Key Takeaways
Clearing Up Myths & Misconceptions
Many have said that leather bags cannot be washed with water because it will ruin the leather. However, this is only partially true, as most leathers (minus suede and Nubuck) can be washed with pH-neutral soap and water, but minimal water should be used to prevent water stains and mold.
Some have also said that leather bags are only made to last a few years, so cleaning really is unnecessary. However, the truth is leather is made to be durable and long-lasting, even with everyday use, and cleaning leather bags help them look great and last for up to 30 years or more.
Reasons You Might Choose To Clean a Leather Bag
Leather bags are exposed to many things with everyday use, and regularly cleaning them can keep them looking and feeling great. It’s a great idea to look them over at least once per month to see if they need cleaning to prevent stains from setting in. Here are some other reasons why cleaning a leather bag is a good idea:
- Scuffs
- Spills
- Stains
- Water damage
- Stickiness
- Mold
Variations or Styles of Cleaning a Leather Bag
Leather bags come in many different types of leather, and cleaning them is not complex. There are two main styles of cleaning for leather bags:
- Leather cleaner
- PH-neutral soap and water
Leather cleaner should be of good quality and have simple ingredients to clean any type of leather. There are specialty leather cleaners for suede and Nubuck, which require unique treatment to maintain the material. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use, including diluting if needed. The soap used needs to be gentle to clean effectively while protecting the leather fibers and finish.
Leather bags can be cleaned safely and effectively with leather cleaner or pH-neutral soap and water.
How To Clean a Leather Bag Overview Table
| Area of Preparation | Details |
| Technique | Cleaning a leather bag |
| Overall Level of Skill (1–5) | 2 |
| Time to Complete (minutes/hours) | 20 minutes to 1 hour |
| Workspace Needed | Sturdy surface |
| Skills Needed | Basic leather care |
| Tools and Supplies Needed | Vacuum with a soft brush attachment, leather cleaner, pH-neutral soap and water, bowl, soft towels, leather conditioner |
| Key Helpful Tip | Avoid getting leather too wet. |
Skill Level of Cleaning a Leather Bag
Special skills are not needed for cleaning a leather bag, just some basic knowledge of leather care. Leather is a complex of fibers that should be treated gently to prevent cracks and premature aging, and using the right cleaning supplies is a huge part of that.
Any new products should be tested in an inconspicuous spot first to check for color change or staining. Then just keep in mind that leather should not get too wet as this can lead to water stains and mold.
Tools and Supplies Needed To Clean a Leather Bag
Cleaning a leather bag takes a few tools. It begins with a vacuum for dirt and debris, then gather the following:
- Leather cleaner
- pH-neutral soap and water
- Bowl
- Soft towels
- Leather conditioner
How To Clean a Leather Bag Step by Step
Once all the supplies have been gathered and prepared, complete the following:
- Empty out the leather bag.
- Shake out dirt and debris.
- Vacuum out the inside of the bag.
- Prepare the leather cleaner or mix 1 teaspoon of pH-neutral soap in 2 cups of warm water to create suds.
- Dampen a soft cloth with the cleaner.
- Wipe the leather bag with the damp cloth.
- Wipe the leather bag with a clean, dry cloth to remove excess soap or water.
- Allow the leather bag to air dry.
- Apply leather conditioner
- Enjoy!
Watch this helpful video from The Grateful Queen as they demonstrate cleaning leather and suede bags:
How To Get Better at Cleaning a Leather Bag
If one has more than one leather bag, there is always the opportunity to get better at cleaning them. There are multiple types of leather as well, and even synthetic leathers have properties like chemical and water resistance that should be maintained with proper cleaning, according to researchers Duo, Qian, Zhao, Qian, and Xu.
Many people rotate leather bags according to outfit/occasion/season/trends, and having a cleaning routine to accompany these rotations is an excellent idea. Try using different leather cleaners and conditioners and learn what works well and what does not. Leather bags are durable and resilient and can take use. Repeated cleanings just make them more durable and appealing!
My Personal Research on How To Clean a Leather Bag
I asked friends and family how they clean their leather bags. Here is a table representing the percentages of their responses and what I learned from the poll about how to clean a leather bag.
| Leather Bag Cleaning Method | Times Selected |
| None | 18% |
| Leather cleaner | 29% |
| Soap and water | 24% |
| Leather wipes | 29% |
Helpful Insights On How To Clean a Leather Bag
What is the best way to clean a leather bag?
The best way to clean a leather bag is with leather cleaner or pH-neutral soap and water. Start with emptying the contents and vacuuming the inside of the bag. Then follow the manufacturer’s instructions for leather cleaner or mix soap and water to create suds. Wipe down the bag with a soft cloth, allowing it to air dry before applying leather cleaner.
What household products can you use to clean leather bags?
When cleaning leather, using products specifically designed for leather care is generally recommended. However, if you don’t have specialized leather cleaning products on hand, there are a few household items you can use with caution, including a soft-bristled brush or vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment on a low setting for dry dusting debris. Also, a pH-neutral soap or rubbing alcohol can work well for removing more difficult stains from leather bags.
Is vinegar good for cleaning leather bags?
Vinegar is good for cleaning and removing stains from hard surfaces, but not from leather bags. Vinegar is an acidic chemical that affects leather’s fiber bonds. Even with the first application of vinegar, the leather material can dry out and crack. Use pH-neutral soap and water or leather cleaner instead.
How do you clean and restore leather bags?
Cleaning and restoring leather bags starts with emptying the contents of the bags. Vacuum out any loose dirt and debris, then examine for scuffs, stains, and cracks. Use a leather cleaner or pH-neutral soap and water to wash the leather and remove any marks gently. Allow the leather bag to air dry, and apply a leather conditioner.
How do you clean a luxury leather bag at home?
A luxury leather bag can be cleaned with leather cleaner or pH-neutral soap and water. These are gentle yet strong enough to effectively clean leather of scuffs, marks, and stains while preserving the material. Allow the leather to air dry completely, then apply a leather conditioner.
Key Takeaways
- Leather bags can be cleaned safely and effectively with leather cleaner or pH-neutral soap and water.
- Use specialty leather cleaners for suede and Nubuck leather bags.
- Always apply a leather conditioner to dry leather bags after cleaning.
In Closing
Leather bags don’t always cost much, but they can be used for decades if treated right. Everyday use leather bags don’t need to show their age with marks, scuffs, and stains – they can be cleaned with simple items found at home. Hopefully, I’ve given you the tools and confidence to clean those leather bags and keep them looking and feeling luxurious!
Other Resources:
- How to Clean Leather – The Simple Steps to Quality Results
- How To Clean White Leather – Unique Methods for This Color
- How To Clean White Leather Shoes – Safely and Easily
- How To Clean Leather Boots – Guide from a Leather Crafter
- How To Wash A Leather Jacket – Tips From a Leather Crafter
- How To Get Wrinkles Out Of Leather for Different Leather Types
- How To Clean A Leather Purse – Guide from a Leather Crafter
- How To Disinfect Leather – Safe and Effective Methods
- How to Clean Mold From Leather – An Easy Step-by-Step
- How To Clean a Leather Jacket – Tips From a Leather Crafter
- How to Clean Leather Chairs – Step-by-Step from Experience
- Magic Eraser on Leather – Why It Should Generally Be Avoided
- How To Clean Patent Leather – Properly and Easily
- How To Wash Faux Leather – Clean Results Without Shrinking
- Can You Iron Leather? – When and How This Can Work Great
- How To Get Paint off Leather – While Protecting the Fibers
- Can You Steam Leather? – When It Works and How To Do It
- Water Stain on Leather – Easily Make It Look New Again
- How To Remove Creases From Leather Shoes Properly and Easily
- How To Polish Patent Leather Shoes and Preserve the Surface
- How To Clean Leather Sandals Without Shrinking Them
- How to Wash Leather – Based on Unique Leather Types
- How To Get Stains Out of Leather – Without Damaging Leather
- How To Clean a Leather Couch or Sofa With Proper Care
- Successful Methods To Easily Clean Leather Car Seats
- How To Clean Leather Shoes Properly – Step by Step
- How To Clean Leather Furniture – Methods and Options
- Remove Stains From Leather – Guide from a Leather Crafter
- How To Get Pen or Ink Out of Leather in Just a Few Minutes
- How To Clean Leather Gloves – Steps, Tips, and Success
- How To Clean a Leather Wallet – With Helpful Maintenance Tips Too
- How To Get Sharpie Permanent Marker off Leather