THE VINTAGE CARE GUIDE
A vintage bag is the perfect investment. It holds all your essentials while being incredibly stylish, all at the same time! They are made with premium materials in timeless models, truly the perfect companion.
There are several advantages of buying vintage- you get a unique bag with a story, for a lesser price than a new bag. Some bags are so well-maintained and are kept in almost the same shape as their newer counterparts, while some show signs of having lived long, exciting lives. But regardless of the condition of your new companion, it’s always a good idea to learn how to care for it. Caring for your vintage bag will prolong its life and give it plenty of new stories to tell. Most materials can be cleaned with items you probably already own, but for leather goods, we do recommend buying a leather care kit, as they need extra care and specific cleaning agents and conditioners.
The Two Leather Bags
Leather bags have a timeless appeal, often growing more beautiful with age. As they’re used, the leather develops a unique patina, darkening and taking on character over time. This natural aging process, along with the leather's softening and rich texture, makes each bag one-of-a-kind. However, to keep a leather bag in top condition, it requires ongoing care. Regular conditioning helps maintain its suppleness and prevents damage from dryness or cracking, while proper attention to stains ensures the bag remains looking its best for years to come.
How to keep your leather bag looking like new
Leather bags often age beautifully as they create a patina, a process where the leather oxidizes and darkens with use, and through exposure to air and different room conditions. Many people actually prefer the patina to the original color of the bag, and patiently wait for it to take place. For your leather bag to get to this stage, it needs to be used and regularly conditioned.
Patent Leather
Patent leather is leather with a glossy plastic coating that can dull over time due to dirt buildup. Cleaning with water and mild soap can restore its shine. While water-resistant, it’s not waterproof, so excess liquid should be wiped off promptly. Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach, acetone, or vinegar, as they can damage the coating. Patent leather is prone to scratches, which can be treated with a specialized patent leather cleaner. Other cleaning agents may affect the coating, causing stickiness that is difficult to fix.
Canvas & Nylon
Canvas and nylon are both highly durable and low-maintenance materials that offer practicality and style. Canvas, often coated with PVC for added strength, is resistant to water damage and can be easily cleaned with just a damp cloth and mild soap. Similarly, nylon is lightweight, stylish, and easy to clean, but it requires attention to avoid absorbing odors and fading from sun exposure. Whether you're caring for a coated canvas bag or a nylon accessory, simple upkeep can ensure both materials stay in great condition for years to come.
Canvas
Canvas is a durable material, often with a PVC coating that makes it easy to clean. A damp cloth and mild soap solution are usually sufficient for cleaning. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the coating. To prevent cracks, store the bag in a cool, dark place, avoid prolonged folding, and use fillers to maintain the shape of unstructured bags.
Nylon
Nylon is a versatile and durable synthetic material known for its lightweight, stylish appearance and easy maintenance. Perfect for everyday use, nylon is simple to clean with just soap and water, making it a practical choice. However, it’s important to care for it properly by avoiding strong scents, prolonged sunlight, and ensuring it’s fully dry before storing. With the right care, nylon items can stay looking fresh and vibrant for years.
Scents
Sometimes, a pre-loved bag can tell its tale with a less than desired scent. If this is the case, fresh, dry air is a good first step. Air the bag out for a few hours outside. Just make sure it’s dry outside. High humidity in the air could worsen the condition and create a mildew scent. If the bag does smell of mildew it can be counteracted with vinegar. The acid in the vinegar helps the pH-levels go down, hopefully removing the smell completely. Some vinegar in a spray bottle and a few light spritzes does the trick, remember that a little goes a long way, don’t soak your vintage bag in vinegar! If the scent persists, there are scent bags available in the market and these do a great job removing scents as well.
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