How to Clean Your Leather Purse or Handbag

Let’s be real—your purse is your ultimate sidekick, carrying everything from your wallet to that random snack you swear you didn’t pack. But, like all hard-working accessories, it can start to show signs of wear and tear. 

Whether it’s crumbs in the corners, a stain on the lining, or dull-looking leather, your handbag deserves some TLC to keep it looking fresh and fabulous. In this guide, we’ll break down how to clean and maintain your leather purse or handbag. Ready to give your trusty bag a glow-up? Let’s dive in!

1. Why Cleaning Your Purse Is a Must

Let’s take a moment to think about where your purse has been today. Seriously—think about it. From restaurant floors to subway seats, your bag has been through it all. It’s no surprise that your purse can pick up all kinds of grime, germs, and, let’s be honest, some mystery crumbs along the way. 

While your bag may look cute carrying your essentials, it also picks up a lot more than just your keys and lipstick. Cleaning your purse regularly isn’t just about keeping it pretty—it’s about keeping it fresh and germ-free!

Bacteria & Germs: The Hidden Risk

Think of your purse as a mobile petri dish. It goes with you everywhere: restaurants, public transportation, the grocery store, and more. With all that travel, it’s no wonder that bacteria and germs love to hang out in your bag. 

Regular cleaning helps remove these pesky germs, keeping your purse—and your hands—much safer. (Pro tip: If you want to stay extra safe, wipe down the handles with a disinfectant wipe every now and then too!)

A Well-Maintained Bag Lasts Longer

We’ve all seen that handbag that’s looking a little worse for wear. Over time, dirt, spills, and oils from your skin can wear down the materials. But regular cleaning helps keep your bag in tip-top shape by preventing cracks, stains, and that dreaded sagging. 

Whether it’s a leather handbag cleaning routine or a simple wipe down for a fabric purse, proper care helps extend your bag’s life and keeps it looking great for years to come.

Stay Stylish with a Fresh Purse

We get it—your purse is a part of your outfit. It’s your accessory that adds that final touch, the cherry on top of your ensemble. A clean bag makes a polished statement, while a dirty one? 

Well, let’s just say it can quickly bring down the whole vibe. Regular purse cleaning keeps your bag looking sleek, fresh, and always ready to impress. A clean purse doesn’t just hold your things, it elevates your style!

So, next time you notice that little stain on your favorite handbag, don’t ignore it. Cleaning your purse is a simple way to keep it looking brand new, and you’ll feel a lot better carrying it around. Whether it’s a DIY purse cleaner for a quick refresh or a trip to a professional purse cleaning Los Angeles for a deep clean, a little care goes a long way!

2. Start with These Universal Cleaning Steps

Let’s start with some basic steps that apply to every purse or handbag. No matter the material, these tips will help you give your bag a good, quick refresh.

Empty Everything:

First things first—empty out your bag! Trust us, you don’t want to be cleaning around that half-eaten granola bar or the receipt from two months ago. Take out all your essentials (wallet, keys, makeup), and don’t forget to check all those sneaky pockets. You'd be amazed at what you can find in there—coins, lipstick, maybe even that spare earring you’ve been looking for!

Shake It Out:

Once everything is out, flip your purse upside down and give it a gentle shake. You’d be surprised how much stuff ends up hiding at the bottom—crumbs, lint, and even those tiny bits of paper that somehow get stuck in there. 

Give it a good shake to get rid of the loose debris before you start the cleaning process.

Spot Clean Stains:

Now, the fun part—spot cleaning! Whether it’s a tiny coffee spill or a mysterious stain you can't quite place, grab a soft cloth and a gentle cleaning solution (preferably something eco-friendly if you’re going green ).

Dab (don’t rub!) the stained area gently to lift the dirt without damaging the material. For quick fixes, this is your best bet.

You’ll be amazed at how much this little step can freshen up your purse!

3. How to Care for Leather Handbags

Leather bags are the timeless, classic accessories we all love, but they can lose their luster if not properly cared for. Don’t worry, though—we’ve got you covered with all the tips to keep your leather handbag looking fresh, clean, and fabulous!

Wipe It Down Regularly

Think of your leather bag as the trusty companion it is—always by your side, but also collecting dust and dirt along the way. Regularly dusting it off with a soft cloth (think microfiber or a gentle cotton cloth) will help keep it looking sharp. 
For a more thorough cleaning, grab a damp cloth and gently wipe down the leather to remove any surface dirt or grime. A quick wipe-down can make all the difference!

Deep Clean Your Leather Bag

When your leather bag starts to look a little less “new” and a little more “well-loved,” it’s time for a deep clean. Here’s a simple DIY solution: mix a few drops of mild soap (like a gentle dish soap or baby shampoo) with warm water. Use a soft cloth to gently rub the leather with the solution, being careful not to soak the material. 

The goal is to lift dirt and oils without damaging the leather. Don’t forget to test any cleaner on a small, hidden area of the bag first to make sure it won’t cause discoloration.

Condition Your Leather Handbag

Leather is a natural material that can dry out over time, especially if it’s exposed to sunlight or heat. That’s why conditioning is a key part of leather handbag care. After cleaning, use a leather conditioner to keep your bag soft, supple, and moisturized. 

A good conditioner will help restore the leather’s rich texture and color, giving your bag that luxe feel you love. Pro tip: Look for eco-friendly leather conditioners that are gentle on both your bag and the environment!

Handle Stains with Care:

Accidents happen! Whether it’s a coffee spill or a mark from your lipstick, leather can be a little tricky when it comes to stains. For tougher stains, try a leather-specific cleaner or stain remover designed for the type of leather your bag is made of. 

Apply the cleaner to a soft cloth and gently rub the stain, being careful not to over-saturate the area. If you’re dealing with a delicate or high-end leather purse, it’s always best to consult a professional to avoid damage.

4. Faux Leather Bags: Easy Maintenance Tips

Faux leather bags are a stylish, eco-friendly alternative to genuine leather, and while they’re often easier to maintain, they still need a little TLC to keep them looking their best. Here’s how to clean and care for your faux leather bag, ensuring it stays fresh and fabulous.

Clean with Care

When it comes to faux leather cleaning, less is more! Avoid harsh chemicals that can strip away the material’s texture and color. Instead, grab a damp cloth and a gentle soap solution—mild dish soap or hand soap works wonders. Lightly wipe down the surface, focusing on any spots or stains. 

If you need a little extra cleaning power, use a soft sponge or cloth to gently scrub. Remember, faux leather isn’t as resilient as real leather, so be gentle to avoid damaging it.

Scrub the Handles

Handles can be a tricky spot on any purse. Faux leather handles, especially on everyday bags, tend to gather dirt and grime from all the places your bag goes. For those tricky crevices, reach for an old toothbrush! 

Dip it in the mild soap solution and gently scrub the textured areas. This will lift away dirt and restore the handles to their former glory. Just be sure not to scrub too hard—nobody wants frayed handles.

Dry Properly

Faux leather can be sensitive to heat, which can cause it to crack or peel over time. After you’ve cleaned your bag, don’t throw it in the dryer or leave it under direct sunlight. Instead, let it air dry naturally, in a cool, dry spot. 

This helps maintain its smooth texture and prevents fading. Patience is key when drying faux leather, so give it the time it needs to fully dry before you take it out for its next adventure.

5. Refresh the Inside of Your Bag

Let’s face it—the inside of your purse is where the real action happens. From stray receipts to snack crumbs, your bag's interior can easily become a cluttered mess. But no worries, we’ve got the cleaning hacks you need to keep it fresh, too!

1. Vacuum the Corners

Those little nooks and crannies inside your bag? They tend to collect more debris than you might realize. Grab a small handheld vacuum with a nozzle attachment (a mini vacuum cleaner works great for this!) and gently suck up all the crumbs, dust, and small items that have found a home in your purse. This quick step will keep your bag feeling light and free of unwanted gunk.

2. Wipe the Lining

If your purse has a fabric lining, it's time for a little TLC. Grab a damp cloth and dip it into a mixture of water and mild soap (nothing harsh—remember, we're caring for your bag!). Gently wipe down the lining to remove any dirt, stains, or spills. Be sure to avoid soaking the fabric, as this can cause wrinkles or watermarks. A soft touch goes a long way when it comes to keeping your purse looking fresh.

3. Tackle Odors with Baking Soda

Let’s be honest—sometimes your purse can start to smell less than fresh. Whether it’s from carrying lunch around or just from being in a warm, crowded space, odors can sneak up on you. The secret weapon? Baking soda! Simply sprinkle a small amount inside your bag, let it sit for a few hours (or even overnight), and then shake it out. This simple trick will absorb any funky smells and leave your purse smelling fresh and clean.

By taking care of the inside of your purse, you’re giving it the full spa treatment! It’s not just about cleaning the exterior—it’s about making sure every inch of your handbag is fresh, organized, and ready for your next adventure.

Keeping your purse or handbag clean doesn’t have to be a chore! With these tips, you can make your favorite accessory look as good as new, no matter its material. Whether it’s a luxe leather tote or a sturdy nylon bag, a little regular maintenance goes a long way in extending its life and keeping it stylish.

For those tougher cleaning tasks or when you just don’t have the time, let the experts take care of it. OrangeBag is here to help with all your laundry and cleaning needs, including handbags! 

Reach out today and keep your bags (and everything else) fresh and fabulous.