Let’s face it – we all love a good leather bag! But what happens when it gets dirty? Leather bags can be expensive, so you want to make sure you clean them properly and don’t damage the material. Here are my top tips for cleaning your leather bag at home:

First things first, always test out any cleaning product on a small area at the back of the bag before you use it on the whole thing. Some leathers contain dyes that may react with certain products, so check before you go all in!

Next, get rid of any dust or loose dirt by giving the bag a wipe down with a dry cloth. You can also brush away any dirt with an old toothbrush or makeup brush.

Now for the deep clean… Start by mixing a small amount of washing up liquid with some warm water. Use a soft cloth to apply the solution to your bag and give it a gentle rub. Avoid using too much water and don’t soak your bag!

After wiping down your bag with a damp cloth, give it another wipe with a dry microfiber towel (or something similar) to get rid of any excess moisture.

The last step is to condition your leather!

Leather is a durable material that is used for making all sorts of things, including furniture and bags. A leather bag is an investment; it should last for years with the proper care. However, even the most well-cared-for leather can get dirty over time. Luckily, you don't need to spend a lot of money or use harsh chemicals to clean your bag at home.

For many of us, our bag is our most prized accessory. But it’s not hard for your favorite leather handbag to lose its luster after a few years of use and abuse. Luckily, there are a few simple tricks for cleaning your leather bag without damaging it. Here’s how to do it.

Wipe with a soft damp cloth. For most day-to-day dirt, use a soft, clean cloth to wipe off your leather bag. If your bag is simply dusty, you can use a microfiber cloth to gently wipe dust away. A slight dampness helps clear away more stubborn marks. Be careful not to soak the leather, since that can ruin it.

Use an appropriate cleaner for tougher stains. You may come across tougher stains that need a special cleaning solution. Leather cleaners are available in most stores, or you can make a homemade solution of one part vinegar to two parts water (or olive oil). Apply this solution with a soft cloth and buff dry with another cloth.

Condition the leather once a month. To keep your leather healthy and supple, you should condition it at least once a month.[10] Leather conditioner is available in most stores and online, or you can make your own by mixing one part beeswax with two parts linseed oil.[11] Rub the conditioner into the leather using a soft cloth in circular motions[12] until it’s absorbed into the material.[13] Let it sit overnight then wipe off any excess with a soft cloth.

A leather bag is an investment piece that, if cared for properly, can last a lifetime. A gentle cleaning every once in a while is important to keep your bag looking and smelling fresh. You should do this regularly, especially if you use your bag every day.

Prevent stains in the first place by spraying it with a stain-repellent product and avoiding rain whenever possible. Check the care label to find out what kind of cleaner is safe to use on your bag. Water-based cleaners are usually fine, but oil-based ones could damage the leather.

Leather cleaners are available at most grocery stores in the shoe section. Be sure to test them on an inconspicuous area before using them on the whole bag. After you’re done cleaning, apply a protectant spray to prevent staining from occurring again.