Since I started investing in luxury handbags a few years ago, I’ve treated the pieces in my collection like delicate newborn babies. When you’ve spent hundreds (or let’s be honest, thousands) on a new designer bag, it’s important to give it the TLC it deserves. Here are 8 tricks on how to properly store and care for your expensive handbags so you can wear them for years to come (and win points with your future granddaughter!)
1. When in Doubt, Leave it Out
Although it may be tempting to carry around everything but the kitchen sink (who knows what lip colour you’ll be in the mood for later?), try to narrow it down to just the necessities. Overstuffing can cause your bag’s materials and handles to stretch, permanently altering its shape.
2. Keep Things Separate
Even with a small purse, put any products that may cause spillage or leave stains (such as hand sanitizer or lipstick) in a separate ziplock or makeup bag. Since the lining in one of my Chanel bags is light pink, this tip is a must for me!
3. Don’t Place it On the Floor
Not only is this bad feng shui (ever heard of the saying “a purse on the floor is money out the door”?) but it is a guaranteed way for your bag to get dirty and damaged.
4. Clean Hands Only
Just returned from an outdoor run or put on some moisturizing hand lotion? Make sure to wash your hands before handling your bag as the transfer of dirt and oils can stain it easily.
5. Water Safety
If your bag is leather, try to avoid using it on rainy or snowy days as water can cause the bag to swell and lose its shape. If you get water on it accidentally, quickly blot it with a towel and then allow it to air dry naturally.
6. Store With Care
The same way you would tuck a baby safely into its crib at night, you should always place your purse in its dust bag for extra protection when not in use. It is also best to put back in the original stuffing to help retain the bag’s shape, and if there are metal straps, pull them inside the bag (if possible) to prevent indentation marks.
7. Give it a Rest
As tempting as it may be to use your expensive purchase day after day, try to keep alternating it with the other bags in your closet. The bag’s materials need a chance to breathe, and it will remain in better condition if it is not used on a daily basis.
8. Seek Professional Help
For damage such as stains, rips or broken zippers, take your bag immediately to a professional for repair. Most shoe repair professionals also work on handbags, and some brands do in-house repairs on their own bags. Remember that the sooner you seek help, the sooner the experts can work their magic and save your precious baby bag.
Do you have any tricks on how to store and care for luxury handbags? We’d love to hear from you!
Featured image: Instagram/@somethingnavy
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