Mon May 21, 2007

How to Care for Your Handbags

SheFinds asked readers how much you all would pay for a handbag. Most of you said no more than $100, but some said they would spend as much as $1000. Either way, that’s money well spent on something you want to last. The key is caring for them properly. Sounds simple, right? Well, there might be more to it than you think. Here are some tips to apply to your own handbag collection so that, whether you own a Prada or an Alfani, you can still keep it looking good longer.

Leather Maintenance
* Apply a leather treatment and leather protector to all new leather bags and condition them periodically to keep them soft.
* Never use a treatment on suede bags. Just brush them with a suede brush to remove dust and grime.
* Snakeskin should always be taken to a pro.
* For patent leather bags, please see our post on Caring for Patent Leather Shoes.


Spots & Stains
Sometimes you can treat light spots on your own, but always spot test! Serious stains usually require the work of a professional.

Storage
Keep the handbags you use most often on a shelf in your closet standing upright in a line, possibly organized by type, color and size if you wish. Stuff each one with bubble wrap (it’s better than tissue paper) so that they maintain their shape. For long term storage, wrap them in their dust bags (or a cotton pillowcase) and place in boxes big enough so that the handles don’t press into the bag, which can cause unsightly creases. Chain handles should always be tucked inside the bag when storing. As for small bags, like clutches and wristlets, small baskets are good for keeping them in order.

For more inspiring handbag care tips, visit InStyle.com and eHow’s guide to Leather Cleaning. If you have a tip to add, post it in the comments section.

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