Designer handbags are a worthy investment; they are made from refined materials and designed to outlast the seasons. However, they still need to be cleaned and maintained regularly to keep their shape and style.
Our complete guide will present the best tips for cleaning leather and velvet handbags, as well as how to repair your handbag yourself, and how to properly store your handbag to avoid extended exposure to the elements.
Click on a section to find out more:
Here’s how you can appropriately clean a leather handbag to ensure it lasts
Velvet can be a tricky material to keep clean, but there are steps you can take
There are ways to repair a designer handbag yourself
Storing your handbag properly is essential to keep in shape and style
Browse our new collection here
Cleaning Your Leather Handbag or Purse
A designer leather handbag isn't just a simple fashion accessory; it’s an investment that requires careful maintenance to preserve its beauty and durability. Therefore, regular upkeep and cleaning is essential.
For daily care, gently wipe your bag with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove dust and dirt, and always handle it with clean hands to prevent stains. Store handbags in a dust bag when not in use. For deeper cleaning, use a specialist leather cleaner and apply in circular motions. Conditioning every few months prevents the leather from drying out and cracking. Light-coloured leather needs extra attention, requiring frequent gentle wipes to prevent discolouration.
Leather can be damaged by water, humidity, heat, sunlight, and harsh chemicals. Spills should be blotted and air-dried naturally, but never with heat. Avoid exposure to cleaning products containing alcohol or bleach, and keep pens and inks away. Poor storage in damp or cramped conditions risks mould and distortion; instead, use dust bags and tissue inserts to maintain shape.
Regularly empty your handbag to avoid clutter and wear. Use pouches for cosmetics or pens, and clean fabric linings with mild soap or a fabric-safe cleaner. Always ensure liquids are tightly sealed before placing them inside.
At Jasper Conran London, a range of timeless collections, including the versatile Ivanna satin top handle bag, elegant Gigi wool silk clutch, and Inez feather clutch. Each combines elegance with practicality.
You can find out more about cleaning a handbag or purse in our previous guide here.
Cleaning Your Velvet Handbag or Purse
Velvet handbags, such as our Gaby velvet clutch, embody timeless sophistication, but their plush texture makes them more delicate than leather and requires thoughtful care to preserve their beauty.
Velvet’s dense fibres create its luxurious softness but also make it prone to dust, oils, and pressure marks. While it is more high-maintenance than other materials, with the right approach it can be cleaned effectively without losing its texture.
Here are some tips to appropriately clean your velvet handbag:
Brushing: Use a soft-bristled brush designed for velvet or suede to gently remove dust, always brushing in the direction of the fibres.
Spot cleaning: For stains, blot (never rub) with a cloth dampened in a mild solution of lukewarm water and gentle soap. Oil-based stains may require a dry-cleaning sponge or professional care.
Steaming: Light steaming helps restore crushed fibres. Keep the steamer at a distance and coax the pile back with fingers or a brush.
Final buffing: Once dry, give the surface a light, even brush to revive its texture.
Regular-use bags benefit from a weekly brush and a deeper clean every two to three months. Evening clutches should be checked and cleaned after each wear, especially if exposed to makeup, perfume, or spills. Prompt attention to small stains prevents permanent damage.
Velvet should never be soaked, scrubbed, exposed to harsh chemicals, or dried with direct heat or sunlight. Avoid vacuums and improper storage. Instead, store in breathable dust bags, lightly filled with acid-free tissue to maintain shape.
You can discover more about cleaning a velvet handbag in our previous guide.
Tips for Repairing a Designer Handbag
Leather handbags are timeless investments, but even the highest-quality pieces can show signs of wear over time.
Despite its durability, leather is prone to scratches, scuffs, fading, and water damage. Improper storage may cause loss of shape, while stains can set quickly if not treated. Preventive steps such as conditioning, blotting spills, and using dust bags protect the material and preserve its elegance.
Minor issues are often manageable at home. Scuffs can be treated with conditioners, and reshaping is possible by gently stuffing the bag with tissue paper. Even simple strap or buckle repairs can be attempted with the right tools. However, severe structural damage, deep cuts, or hardware issues usually require professional expertise. Attempting heavy-duty stitching or refinishing at home risks further damage.
To minimise future problems, apply a high-quality leather protector against water and stains. If wet, pat dry and air naturally without using heat. Store in breathable dust bags and lightly stuff with tissue to maintain shape. Avoid overloading to prevent stretching and strain, and keep handbags away from sunlight and radiators to prevent fading. Regular cleaning with a soft cloth and occasional conditioning maintains suppleness and shine.
At-home fixes are suitable for light wear, but professional services can restore stitching, replace hardware, and revive water-damaged or discoloured leather. Acting quickly on stains and investing in occasional professional maintenance ensures your handbag remains stylish and durable for years.
Find out more about repairing your designer handbag in our previous guide here.
How to Store a Designer Handbag
A designer handbag is a long-term investment, and proper storage is key to preserving its beauty, structure, and longevity.
Always store handbags upright on a flat shelf to maintain shape, and stuff them with white or acid-free tissue paper (never newspaper) or handbag pillows to prevent sagging. Use the original dust bag provided with Jasper Conran handbags, or a cotton pillowcase as an alternative, to protect from dust and scratches while allowing the material to breathe. Keep bags in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, radiators, or damp spaces such as lofts and basements. Rotate use to keep leather supple, and handle bags with clean hands before putting them away.
Options include dust bags, cubby shelving with dividers, or clear acrylic display boxes with ventilation. Accessories like straps and charms should be kept separately in soft drawstring pouches inside the bag. While handbag hooks can save space, hanging bags by straps long-term may cause distortion.
Without correct care, bags may lose shape, develop creases, or suffer cracking from overly dry environments. Excess humidity encourages mould and mildew, while direct sunlight leads to fading and discolouration. Hardware like zippers and clasps can tarnish if not protected, and storing against coloured fabrics or plastics may cause transfer stains.
Don’t stack handbags, use non-ventilated plastic containers, coloured tissue paper, or store them in direct sunlight. Regularly inspect bags, even when stored, to catch early signs of wear or environmental damage.
Find out more about properly storing your designer handbag by reading our previous guide here.
Choosing your Next Designer Handbag at Jasper Conran London
At Jasper Conran London, our new autumn/winter 2025 collection features all new handbags perfect for festive occasions. These contemporary handbags still present a classic twist, guaranteed to tie together any ensemble with a refined feel. From our elevated Laura sequin top handle bag to our Ivanna satin variant, stand out at any occasion this festive season with a designer handbag that can last you throughout the seasons. By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure your handbag serves you for years to come.
You can view our full collection of designer handbags here.
