In the process of maintaining the appearance of leather bags, dealing with difficult-to-clean stains poses a challenge, especially when you own high-quality leather handbags, briefcases, or leather travel bags. In this article, we’ll discuss common unsightly marks on leather bags such as water, oil, ink, and wine stains, and effective methods for their removal. With proper care and maintenance, your leather bag will continue to exude elegance and charm.
(Note: Our techniques apply to full-grain leather or calfskin, but they are still effective for synthetic leather. However, always remember to test any methods first on a small, inconspicuous area of the bag or wallet.)
Common Stains on Leather Bags
Before delving into the challenging task of removing oil stains, let’s first take a look at other common unsightly marks on leather bags.
Water Stains on Leather
Water stains may occur when bags are inadvertently exposed to rain or placed on damp surfaces. Once dried, water stains can leave uneven spots, affecting the overall appearance of the leather bag. To remove water stains, gently wipe the affected area with a clean, damp cloth and allow the leather to air dry naturally, taking care not to further damage the surface.
Oil Stains on Leather
Oil stains often result from accidental spills during use. These stains may give the leather surface a greasy or dark appearance, impacting its aesthetic appeal. To remove oil stains, use a professional leather cleaner to gently wipe or absorb excess oil, then allow the bag to air dry.
Ink Stains on Leather
Ink stains may occur due to pen leaks or other ink products accidentally soiling the leather bag. These stains can manifest as distinct black or dark spots on the leather surface, affecting its overall appearance. To remove ink stains, try using a professional leather cleaner or seek assistance from a specialized leather cleaning service.
Red Wine Stains on Leather
Red wine stains may result from accidental spills during gatherings or meals. These stains typically present as deep red in color and can significantly impact the bag’s appearance. To remove red wine stains, start by gently wiping the affected area with a clean, damp cloth, then use a professional leather cleaner or seek help from a professional cleaning service.
By addressing these common issues with proper care and maintenance, your leather bag will continue to exude elegance and charm.
Do I Need to Visit a Professional Leather Shop?
If your high-end leather goods are stained, you can opt for professional cleaning and maintenance services at a leather shop, albeit at a hefty price. However, you can also perform cleaning and maintenance at home, with various affordable methods available. There are plenty of DIY cleaning and care techniques that make leather upkeep easy and budget-friendly.
How to Clean Leather with Natural Oils
How to Clean Leather with Laundry Detergent and Water
Start by mixing one part mild laundry detergent with eight parts distilled water. Pour the mixture into a clean spray bottle and spray onto a clean microfiber cloth or sponge.
Gently remove any stains or marks with a clean cloth or soft-bristled brush until they are gone. Once all cleaned, allow to air dry naturally, avoiding direct sunlight.
After drying, apply leather conditioner or natural oil to moisturize the leather.
Tip: Try not to saturate the leather with too much water as it can damage the leather finish.
