If you own a luxury handbag, then you probably know that keeping it in tip-top shape is a priority. The average lifespan of a luxury handbag is about five years, but can definitely last longer depending on how well you protect your handbag. From Chanel and Hermes to Louis Vuitton and Dior, the most popular designer handbags are not meant to last forever. These bags — like electronics, cars, or any other luxury goods — take a lot of wear and tear over time.
Buying a new luxury handbag is not always feasible, especially if you don’t want to shell out thousands of dollars. The bad news is that handbags are prone to getting dirty, stained, and worn out. The good news is that there are a few ways to maintain your bag in mint condition. There are many factors that come into play before you start taking care of your bag. You’ll need to know the bag’s material, washing instructions, and history.
Expand the lifespan of your bag with these great tips that we’ve compiled, up ahead.
1: Use Your Handbag’s Dust Bag
Many luxury bags come with a dust bag, which is meant to store your handbag. Simply place your handbag in the dust bag at the end of each day or the end of each use. The dust bag is meant to protect your luxury items (bags, shoes, etc) from things that can change their colors like direct sunlight and water stains. When you spill water, oil, or any other substance on your bag, this can result in discoloration. Dust bags protect your bag from harm’s way.
Additionally, you can put the dust bag in its original box for extra protection!
2: Beware of Color Transfer
Color transfer typically occurs to suede bags, lambskin bags, or leather handbags. When you wear dark-colored clothing with a light-colored suede or leather bag, this color can rub off on your luxury handbag.
You can also use a leather protective spray to protect your bag from stains, water (like rain), and even wear and tear. People also swear by using a leather shampoo and conditioner that can restore the color and fabric of older bags.
If a color transfer does occur, we recommend taking your handbag to a professional who can help remove the color stains. Leather care after a handbag has already been ruined may involve stronger cleaning products and methods that you can’t do at home.
3: Try Luxury Handbag Inserts
Our luxury handbag inserts have a few different functions. First and foremost, they’re used as a purse organizer/handbag storage for your personal belongings. It’s designed to fit perfectly with your handbag and has enough compartments to store your stuff. Because of their felt material, the inserts give handbags a form-fitting shape. Lastly, it protects the inside of your bag from stains and wears and tear.
The inside of your bag is prone to pen stains, oil stains, water stains, rips, and much more. If you’re using your bag to store makeup, water bottles, and other substances, you can bet that your bag will take a hit. Handbag inserts protect the inside of your bag so that it looks good as new for years to come.
If for some reason we don’t have the luxury handbag insert you’re looking for, you can customize one with us too so that it fits your bag’s exact dimensions and needs.
4: Use a Bubble Wrap Bag
If your handbag doesn’t come with a dustpan or you’ve replaced it for whatever reason, you can store your handbag and other luxury items at the end of each day in a bubble wrap bag. It might not be as aesthetically pleasing as a linen dust bag, but it still does the job of protecting your bag! Bubble wrap actually helps restore the bag’s natural shape over time.
5: Hang Your Bag on a Hanger
Storing handbags in cubbies or storage spaces is risky because they can rub against the paint and surfaces. Hanging your bag on a hanger the way you would with your luxury clothing shows how serious you are about protecting your bag. You can put a hanger rack by your front door so that your bags are easily accessible. Or throw a vertical hanger on your closet door so your bags are concealed.
6: Air Out Your Handbags
Plan on storing your handbags in a dust bag, bubble wrap bag, or their original box? You’ll want to make sure to air out your handbags every once in a while. Hot weather can attract mold and smells to your bag. Breathability is important for your bag to maintain its fresh scent!
Another method you can try is baking soda. Just like you put baking soda in your fridge to absorb stinky odors, you can add the box to your bag and zipper or close it for proper absorption.
How do you protect expensive leather bags?
1: Spray your bag with water repellant for rain and spilling accidents
2: Lather your leather (yes, really!) with special shampoo and conditioner
3: Air it out for breathability and anti-odor
4: Use an insert to protect your bag
5: Use leather soap detergent to wash your bag
6: Take it to a professional leather cleaner
How do I protect my Chanel bag?
Chanel bags are known for their leather and lambskin materials. The Chanel classic flap for example is one of the most popular Chanel handbags that need proper TLC. Here's how to protect Chanel bags.
Use a professional cleanser and conditioner to maintain its color and shine
Store in a dust bag and its original box
Use a stain guard and rain guard before you wear it for the first time
Air it out regularly to avoid humidity and odor
Your handbag collection is most likely your most prized possession! In order to keep it that way, you’ll want to follow these tips to keep your designer bags looking fresh like the day you bought them. With Luxe Goods’ designer handbag inserts, you can extend your bag’s lifespan.
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