Keeping Your Handbags in Good Shape

Your closet is positively filled with handbags – all different types, styles and fabrics. It can be hard to remember how many you have in there, much less figuring out which one to use with what outfit. As you think about these choices, you might wonder if your collection needs a cleaning or needs repair. After all, use of your handbags and negligence of your handbags can lead to handbags looking bad or being damaged. How can you care for your handbag collection without spending all of your time in your closet?

This was the topic at a recent event held by Reebonz, a wholesale luxury goods company, according to an article from The Malay Mail. The invitation-only gathering was full of tips about how to keep handbags in the best shape possible, no matter how old they are:

“‘I choose handbags which are durable and the right size to fit a lot of things I carry around whenever I go out,’ said adult contemporary singer-songwriter Atilia. ‘I prefer hard leather types as I have sweaty palms, and of course the bag has to suit my petite size. My favourite colours are black, brown and gray although I have a few crazy bags which are orange and neon.’”

One of the major themes of the discussion was the problems that some women have with expensive handbag care, especially if it’s one that’s considered an investment. In this vein, here are some tips to help you keep your handbag in good condition:

• Buy a handbag that is well-made in a durable fabric. Leather, denim and other thick fabrics are excellent for handbag choices.
• Choose a fabric that’s slightly darker than you might prefer. This way, any stains or blemishes you can’t take care of immediately might be less noticeable.
• Be careful with thin fabric handbags. Don’t put them near sharp objects and don’t keep sharp objects inside your purse either.
• Use a special cleaner – consult the designer or a fabric store – to clean your handbag’s exterior. Simply using water might work, but a lot of special cleaners contain stain blockers and other types of solutions that offer protection.