A good leather bag is an investment in elegance and convenience. It carries your essentials, complements your outfit and often holds sentimental value, especially when it’s been by your side through workdays, weekends and everything in between. Unlike fast fashion or throwaway trends, leather is built to last. With the right amount of TLC, a quality leather bag can serve you for years or even decades. The secret lies in looking after it properly from day one. If you’ve ever wondered how to care for leather bags without turning it into a full-time job, you’re in the right place. Here are five practical tips to keep your leather pieces looking their best for as long as possible.
1. Keep it clean
Regular cleaning keeps your leather bag looking fresh and helps prevent dirt and oils from settling into the surface. Start by wiping it down every so often with a soft, dry cloth. This will get rid of dirt that has built up. For a deeper clean, use a leather-safe cleaner. Avoid household soaps or harsh chemicals which can strip the leather of its natural oils and make it dry out or crack. You don’t have to scrub… just wipe the surface with a slightly damp cloth and cleaner, then allow it to air dry naturally. Try this on your Everything Tote Bag, a handy everyday staple from Olivia & Co.
2. Moisturise and protect
Just like your skin, leather benefits from a little moisturising. Conditioning your bag helps maintain its softness and flexibility while protecting it from drying out over time. Use a high-quality leather conditioner every few months, especially if you live in a dry climate or notice the leather starting to look dull or feel stiff. Apply it sparingly with a clean cloth, let it soak in for a few moments, then buff off any excess. Many leather conditioners also offer a layer of protection against light moisture and stains, keeping your bag looking polished without losing its natural character. This strategy will work on your 100% leather Olivia & Co Crossbody bag.
3. Store it properly
How you store your leather bag matters as much as how you use it. When it’s not in rotation, give it the care it deserves:
- Keep it in a breathable dust bag to protect it from dust and sunlight
- Avoid plastic bags, which trap moisture and lead to mould
- Gently stuff the bag with acid-free tissue or clean paper to help it keep its shape
- Store it upright in a cool, dry place—never hang it by the straps, as this can cause stretching or warping
- If you know your home is prone to damp, store your leather bag somewhere dry, not in the back or bottom of a cupboard where moisture can rust the zips and make the bag go mouldy.
Going on holiday? Make sure your leather laptop bag is kept somewhere clean and dry while you’re away from home.
4. Handle with care
Leather is tough, but it’s not indestructible. Every day habits make a difference in how well your bag holds up over time. If you’re wondering how to care for leather bags, avoid placing your bag on dirty or damp surfaces, and take care not to overfill it, which can strain the seams and distort its shape. If your bag does get wet, don’t try to speed up the drying process—let it air dry naturally away from heat sources. And while it might be tempting to toss your bag on the car seat or kitchen bench after a long day, try to give it a proper home. The more gently you treat it, the longer it will look and feel like new. This applies to your leather pouches as well as your bags.
5. Know when to call in the pros
Scuffed corners? Ink stains? A lining that’s seen better days? Sometimes the best thing you can do for your leather bag is to hand it over to an expert. Professional leather care services can clean, condition, restore colour and repair structural damage, bringing a tired bag back to life. It’s a smart move for bags with long-term value, and far more sustainable than replacing them. A quality leather saddlebag or bucket bag is worth maintaining, and professional care is an investment in keeping your favourite bag in circulation for many years to come. Looking after your leather doesn’t have to be complicated, just consistent. By taking a few simple steps, you can extend the life of your bag and enjoy it for longer.
Want leather that you love? Shop the Olivia & Co collection today.