Essential care for vintage designer bags
How to care for your new designer item
With the right care, your vintage designer item can stay with you forever. However, leather can naturally evolve over time in color, patina, and shape. In our commitment to ensuring you can enjoy your item for a lifetime, we offer care instructions.
Caring for your vintage designer bag
A vintage designer bag is made to be worn and loved. Leather naturally evolves over time, developing patina and softening with use. With the right care, you can help your bag age beautifully and stay in good condition.
Leather care for your vintage designer item
Our Leather Balm Care Kit nourishes smooth and grained leather without leaving a greasy finish and supports the natural patina over time. To keep your bag fresh, the bag scent can be placed inside the bag in its cotton pouch, gently neutralising odors without direct contact with the leather or lining.
Together, they offer a simple care routine for protection and freshness, keeping your bag smelling clean.
Protect your bag from everyday damage
Small habits make a big difference when it comes to preserving leather and materials.
- Keep your bag away from moisture and rain whenever possible
- Avoid contact with oily products such as makeup and sunscreen
- Be careful with perfume, pens, and other alcohol-based products
- Try not to place your bag on rough or dirty surfaces
These small precautions help prevent stains, dryness, and long-term damage.
How to take care of your bag during use
Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, artificial light, or heat sources. Too much light or warmth can dry out leather and cause colour changes.
If your bag comes into contact with water, gently dab it dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. Always let it air dry naturally and never use heat.
Try not to overload your bag. Carrying too much weight can stretch the leather and affect the original shape, especially with vintage items.
Give your bag a break from time to time, particularly if you use it daily. Using a bag insert helps keep the shape and provides extra support, allowing the leather to relax and recover.
How to store your vintage designer bag
Proper storage plays an important role in maintaining both shape and condition.
- Store your bag in a breathable dust bag when not in use
- Fill the inside with a bag insert to support its shape
- Place chain straps carefully inside the bag to prevent marks on the leather
- Choose a cool, dry place with enough airflow
Avoid plastic bags or sealed environments, as leather needs to breathe.
When repair or restoration is needed
Even with good care, vintage bags may show signs of wear over time. Regular maintenance can help reduce the need for repairs, but some issues require professional attention. In those cases, restoration can help extend the life of your bag while preserving its character.
If your bag needs professional care, you can explore our Pepper repair service, where we explain how restoration works and what to expect from the process.