Purchasing a leather bag is a long-term investment if you can maintain it properly. Leather bags can be used every day unless you likely find stains on them at some point. That’s why it becomes necessary to know how you can remove stains from it, especially when you own a high-quality leather bag or briefcase. If you are among those who carry their leather bags daily, then at some point, you will find stains on them. However, cleaning a leather bag does not take more effort than you think because the stains determine the effort. Although basic leather cleaning is easy, removing a particular stain can take a few minutes. There are different kinds of leather available in the market; hence, some leathers are easy to clean while stains from the other ones can be removed with proper knowledge. For example, faux leather can stain quickly and easily, but you can remove its stain easily. However, regular care of a leather bag is necessary no matter what leather bag you use. Also, it would help if you examined the inside of your bag for care labels. In this piece of writing, we will discuss some techniques to remove stains from leather bags. Even if your leather bag is stain-free, monthly cleaning will keep it in good condition.
How To Remove Water Stains From Leather Bags?
If you accidentally spill water on your leather bag and leave it dry without cleaning it, then you will notice that the outline of the spill will show up and leave the leather with a stain. If you want to prevent your leather bag from water staining, then the best way is to dab the water as soon as possible. Please do not keep it in the sun or use a hairdryer.
After dabbing away the excess water, gently wipe the surface with a soft and dry cloth. Now apply a leather care balm and massage it using a soft cloth in a circular motion. Leave the leather bag to dry up for a few hours or overnight. The leather conditioner will penetrate it through the pores left open from the evaporating water and will replenish the striped oils.
How To Remove Oil and Grease Stains From Leather Bags?
If you ever get a grease or oil stain on your leather bag, never wash it with water. First, wipe it out with a clean and dry cloth. Here, a microfiber cloth will work better. However, if a stain remains there, sprinkle some cornstarch or baking soda on the spot and pat it in. let it sit overnight so that the cornstarch or baking soda will get the time to absorb the oil or grease. In the morning, gently brush it off using a soft-bristled brush.
How To Remove Ink Stains From Leather Bags?
Ink stains are difficult to remove from leather bags, but they can be treated if you address them as soon as possible. To remove ink stains:
Mix one part of mild liquid soap with one part of lukewarm water.
Dip cotton into the liquid mild soap and coat it on the ink stain in a circular motion.
Let the leather dry out naturally, and then apply a leather care balm.
How To Remove Red Wine Stains From Leather Bags?
Red wine is the most prominent source of permanent stains on leather bags. To get rid of the stain, the first step is to determine whether your leather bag is finished or unfinished leather. However, the removal of wine stains is potentially a DIY job. Dark stains from things like red wine can be removed with a homemade paste of cream of tartar to one part of lemon juice. Now apply the paste to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes. Remove the paste with a damp cloth. If debris remains, add mild soap or leather cleaner to the damp cloth and wipe the area. Now allow some time to dry out naturally.
How To Clean Leather Bags?
Aside from removing stains, you will also need to keep your leather bag clean. General care can protect your leather bag from dust, dirt and other debris. You will need tools and equipment like a soft bristle brush and cotton swabs to clean your leather bag. If you want to know how to clean your leather bag, follow the instructions below.
Empty your leather bag
First, remove all the stuff from the pockets, and open all the zippers and clasps. Shake your bag upside down so that all the dust, trash and dirt can be removed.
Clean the remains from the liner
Pull the interior lining out if your sustainable tote bag has a fabric lining. Take a lint roller to capture debris, or you can also use a fabric brush attached with a vacuum to clean the interior. If your bag has no lining, wipe the inside with a damp cloth.
Wipe it down
Get an excellent quality leather soap and add some drops of warm water to it. Now dip in a clean, soft cloth, twist out excess moisture and wipe down the outside of your leather bag.
Buffing
After wiping the leather bag, buff the bag dry using another white cloth. Your leather bag should start to become more flexible and start to shine.
Clean the hardware
Using a metal polish, clean the hardware of your leather bag to make it shine. Dip a cotton swab in the polish and gently apply it to the metal. Now take a white cloth to wipe out the tarnish. Be careful to keep the cleaner off the leather fabric as it can result in discolouration.
Apply the leather care balm
You can finish the cleaning process by applying the leather care balm to the bag so that the remaining stain or debris can be cleaned. Either use the conditioner available in the market or make a leather care balm at home by mixing one part of white vinegar with two parts of linseed oil. Dip the solution in a clean cloth and gently rub it on the leather bag. Let it sit for 15 minutes, then buff dry with a clean rag.
To Conclude:
Removing stains from any leather bag can look difficult but it is quite easy. Above we have mentioned some tips to remove different stains from your leather bag. You must remember that you must treat the stain as soon as possible. But it is always good to first test it in a small spot, especially when dealing with a large area of the stain.
