Leather bags are timeless. They get better with age, develop a gorgeous patina, and often become firm favourites for years. But daily wear inevitably brings the odd coffee spill, ink smudge, or mystery mark.
The good news? With the right tools and a little know-how, cleaning a leather bag at home is totally doable, and a great way to extend its life and keep it looking its best.
Whether you're dealing with a fresh stain or planning a proper refresh, this guide has everything you need to know about how to clean a leather bag safely, effectively, and without stress. From spot cleaning to long-term maintenance, here's how to give your leather bag the care it deserves.
What you'll need to clean your leather bag
Before diving in, gather a few essentials. These items will help you tackle everything from stubborn stains to everyday dirt without damaging the leather:
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Soft-bristled brush - Perfect for gently lifting surface dirt without scratching.
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Microfibre cloths - Use one slightly damp cloth to clean, and a dry cloth to buff your bag afterwards.
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Leather cleaner - Always choose a product made specifically for your leather type. Avoid harsh household cleaners - they can strip away the leather’s natural oils.
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Leather conditioner - Essential for rehydrating and protecting the leather after cleaning.
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Mild soap (like baby shampoo or castile soap) - A gentle alternative if you don’t have a specialist leather cleaner.
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Cotton buds or a soft toothbrush - Great for reaching seams and tricky corners.
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Vacuum cleaner with nozzle attachment - Handy for clearing out crumbs or dust inside the bag.
Cleaning your leather handbag at home
Start by checking the care label. Some bags from our wider range – like the Core Classics or Prints - may require a different cleaning approach.
Our leather crossbody Healthy Back Bags are made from soft, full-grain leather. That means they’re naturally durable and water-resistant, but they’ll still benefit from regular cleaning.
Here’s how to give them a gentle refresh:
1. Empty your bag completely and shake out any loose bits.
2. Use a vacuum with a nozzle to remove debris from the inside.
3. Lightly dampen a microfibre cloth and wipe the exterior of the bag.
4. For a deeper clean, always spot test first on an inconspicuous area.
5. If you’re using a cleaning solution or product for the first time, test it on a small section to make sure the leather reacts well.
Need more tips? Our full cleaning guide has you covered.
How often should you clean your leather bag?
Not every mark calls for a deep clean. A quick spot clean can sort out things like ink stains or the occasional latte splash.
For long-term care, we recommend a deep clean once or twice a year to keep your bag looking and feeling fresh. And remember, never put your leather handbag in the washing machine. Always clean by hand using gentle, circular motions.
How to tackle grease, grime, and stains
Daily wear, especially when you're wearing a crossbody bag, can lead to a build-up of natural oils from hands or skin contact.
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Use a soft-bristled brush to gently lift any grime.
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Apply a leather cleaner or a mix of mild soap and water with a damp cloth.
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Wipe the area gently and allow it to air dry naturally.
Natural alternative: Sprinkle cornstarch or talcum powder on fresh grease stains, leave overnight, then brush off gently in the morning.
Muddy walks or rainy commutes?
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Let mud dry completely before attempting to clean.
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Brush it off with a dry brush.
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Follow up with a damp microfibre cloth to remove any leftover residue.
For water marks, lightly moisten the surrounding leather and let it dry evenly to help the mark blend in.
Dealing with gum or wax?
It happens! If you’ve ended up with chewing gum or wax on your bag:
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Pop your bag in the freezer or apply an ice cube in a plastic bag directly to the spot.
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Once it hardens, gently scrape it off using a plastic tool or your fingernail.
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Avoid metal tools — they can damage the leather.
What about wine or coloured liquids?
Speed is key. If there’s a spill:
1. Blot the area immediately with a dry cloth - don’t rub!
2. Use a leather-safe cleaner or a mild soap solution and a damp cloth.
3. Let the bag air dry away from direct heat or sunlight.
Invest in the right leather cleaning products
Using high-quality leather cleaner and conditioner can make a world of difference when it comes to caring for your leather bag. They clean without stripping natural oils and help keep the leather soft and supple.
After cleaning, let the bag air dry in a cool, ventilated spot. Never use a radiator or hairdryer - heat can dry out and damage the leather.
Finish with a good polish
Once dry, gently buff your leather handbag using a soft, dry microfibre cloth. This not only enhances the shine but also helps evenly distribute any conditioner left on the surface.
Don’t forget about storage
Proper storage is key to keeping your leather bag in top shape.
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Store it in a dust bag or a clean pillowcase.
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Keep it in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.
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Stuff it with tissue paper to help it hold its shape.
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Avoid stacking other bags on top of it.
Quick tips for caring for your leather bag
Here’s a handy recap to keep your bag looking beautiful:
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Clean stains as soon as they appear
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Never wash in a machine
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Always spot test before using any new cleaning product
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Use protective leather cream or waterproof spray
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Deep clean once or twice a year
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Avoid wet or lotion-covered hands when handling
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Store properly to retain shape and avoid mould
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Air it out or use bicarbonate of soda to remove odours
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Avoid direct heat when drying
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If in doubt, speak to a leather cleaning expert
Regular cleaning = longer life
With the right care, your leather handbag can last for many years. Whether you’re tackling stubborn stains or giving your bag a bit of TLC, a little maintenance goes a long way.
Ready to treat your bag - or looking for your next go-to accessory?
Explore our full collection of leather bags, from mini crossbody bags to small and medium leather bags in timeless styles that are built to last.
