Our Leather Care Instructions

Storing leather

Store leather in a cool, dark, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Sun can fade or darken leather unevenly, and that kind of discolouration is often hard to reverse. If a bag has already faded, our guide to restoring a faded leather bag can help.

• Use a breathable dust bag or cotton pillowcase rather than plastic, which traps moisture.
• Stuff bags with acid-free tissue paper to help them hold their shape.
• Avoid leaving bags hanging on hooks for long periods, as the straps and body can stretch.
• Tuck chains, buckles and other hardware inside the bag so they don't press marks into the leather.

Cleaning and removing stains

For regular cleaning, wipe the surface with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust. For marks that don't lift, use a cleaner made for leather, applied with a soft cloth, and follow the instructions on the label. Always test a new product on a small, hidden area first.

Avoid harsh household cleaners, bleach and alcohol wipes, which can dry out or discolour leather. Some stains need their own approach:

• Oil and grease: see our guide to removing oil stains from leather
• Ink and pen marks: see how to remove ink from leather
• A full clean from start to finish: see how to clean leather

Removing odours

Leather can hold onto odours for a long time. Start by airing the item in a shaded, well-ventilated spot for a day or two. A small breathable pouch of bicarb soda left inside a bag for a few days can help absorb smells, as long as the powder doesn't touch the leather.

For stubborn odours, a professional leather cleaner can help, although it usually costs more than a standard bag clean.

If your leather gets wet

Moisture is one of the quickest ways to damage leather, causing water marks, swelling and loss of shape. If your bag gets wet:

1. Blot excess water straight away with a soft, dry cloth. Don't rub.
2. Stuff the bag with paper towel or tissue to hold its shape and draw moisture from inside.
3. Let it dry naturally at room temperature, away from heaters, hairdryers and direct sun.
4. Once it's completely dry, apply a little leather conditioner to restore suppleness.

Everyday care

• Handle with clean hands. Leather absorbs oils from your skin, which can darken it over time, leave spots and attract dirt.
• Don't overstuff your bag. Too much weight can stretch the leather and permanently change the bag's shape, so carry the essentials.
• Keep beauty products contained. Hair products, perfume and hand cream can stain or damage leather, so keep them sealed in a pouch.

For more ideas, read our guide to caring for leather goods or browse our leather handbag guide.

Conditioning and protection

Leather is a natural material and can dry out and crack without care. Apply a leather conditioner every few months, or whenever the leather starts to feel dry, using a small amount on a soft cloth. A little goes a long way, and too much can leave the surface tacky. Conditioner can darken full-grain leather slightly, which is normal.

If your leather is often exposed to rain, a protective spray made for leather adds a layer of water resistance. Test it on a hidden area first, as some sprays can change the colour or texture of the leather.

Darkening and patina over time are a natural part of how full-grain leather ages. You can read more about our leather and materials.

Frequently asked questions