How to clean a leather handbag?

How to clean a leather bag? Expert advice from StylishStrap

A leather bag is a lasting investment… provided it's properly cared for. At StylishStrap , our experts handle genuine leather every day: grained totes, smooth leather, patent leather, camel, black, burgundy…
Regardless of the finish, cleaning should remain simple, gentle and controlled , especially if you are using homemade solutions.

In this article, we explain exactly how to clean a leather bag effectively , without damaging it, with tips validated by our specialists.

1. Can a leather bag be cleaned with homemade solutions?

Yes, provided that three essential rules are respected :

1. Never use harsh products : no pure alcohol, no solvents, no disinfectant wipes.

2. Always test on a small area before applying to the entire bag.

3. Always moisturize after cleaning , because leather is a skin: if you clean it without moisturizing it, it will dry out.

It is on this basis that our experts at StylishStrap recommend several simple and safe methods.

2. Step 1: Dust thoroughly

Before any wet cleaning, dust particles must be removed.

How to do it:

• Use a soft cloth or microfiber cloth.

• Make light circular movements.

• Pay particular attention to areas that tend to collect dust: the base of the bag, bottom, folds and seams.

Why this is crucial:
Cleaning leather that is still dusty can create micro-scratches.

3. Step 2: Clean with homemade solutions (without damaging the leather)

Here are the 3 home methods that our experts really recommend , ranked from the gentlest to the most comprehensive.

Method #1: Warm water + mild soap (the universal method)

Suitable for: smooth leather, grained leather, colored leather.

Ingredients :

• A bowl of lukewarm water

• A small amount of mild soap (Marseille soap, baby shampoo)

How to proceed:

1. Mix the water and soap (very little foam, never a thick mixture).

2. Lightly dampen a soft cloth, then wring it out well.

3. Clean the bag using circular motions.

4. Wipe immediately with another dry cloth.

5. Allow to dry naturally, away from the sun.

Advantage :
A gentle, non-aggressive method, ideal for regular maintenance.

Method #2: Makeup remover milk (a tip approved by saddlers)

Suitable for: dry leather, bags that have lost their suppleness.

Ingredients :

• Classic cleansing milk

• Cotton or microfiber

Why it works:
The cleansing milk contains moisturizing agents very similar to those found in leather creams.

How to proceed:

1. Apply a small amount of milk to a cotton ball.

2. Gently massage the surface of the bag.

3. Let it rest for 5 minutes.

4. Wipe off the excess.

Result :
The leather becomes supple, nourished, and naturally shiny again.

Method #3: Bicarbonate for greasy stains

Suitable for: oil stains, cream stains, sebum stains.

Ingredients :

• Sodium bicarbonate

• A dry cloth

How to proceed:

1. Lightly sprinkle the stained area.

2. Leave on for 2 to 3 hours.

3. Brush or wipe gently.

Attention :
Never apply water to a grease stain → this makes it penetrate the leather.

4. Step 3: Moisturize and protect your leather bag

After each cleaning, the leather must be conditioned to prevent it from drying out.

Effective options:

• Leather cream (ideal)

• Makeup remover milk (homemade option)

How to apply:

1. Place a small amount on a soft cloth.

2. Massage in circular motions.

3. Leave to penetrate without rinsing.

Expected effects:

• Softer leather

• Color revived

• Protection against rain and stains

At StylishStrap, we always hydrate our bags before shooting because it optimizes the result and prolongs their lifespan.

5. How to avoid damaging your leather bag? (common mistakes)

Our experts have listed the most common mistakes:

❌ Use antibacterial wipes
❌ Dry on a radiator / in the sun
❌ Cleaning with too much water
❌ Rub like a fabric (leather doesn't like pressure)
❌ Wear a wet bag immediately
❌ Mix several methods at once

The golden rule: the fewer products, the better.

6. How often should a leather bag be cleaned?

StylishStrap recommends:

• Light cleaning : every 2 to 3 weeks

• Deeper cleansing + hydration : every 2 months

• Waterproofing protection : 3 to 4 times a year

7. When should you go to a professional?

If you notice:

• a deep, ingrained stain

• cracked leather

• a sudden change in color

• a deformation after contact with water
  → Go through a professional saddler or leather cleaner.

Home remedies are very effective, but do not replace expert treatment.

Conclusion: How to clean a leather bag simply?

Cleaning a leather bag is not complicated.
By following the correct steps: dusting, cleaning with a gentle solution, moisturizing, you will prolong its lifespan and keep its elegance intact.

This is the StylishStrap philosophy: taking care of leather so that it accompanies you every day with style, durability and elegance.