For a smooth leather bag, a leather cleaning lotion applied on a cloth works. A household or baby wipe does not. This page compares these solutions, lists the products to avoid and shows how to clean without damaging the leather.
Wipe or cleaning lotion: which one for a leather bag?
Choose a cleaning lotion made for leather, applied in a small amount on a cloth. Household or baby wipes do not suit leather: their formula is not made for it.
If you use a wipe sold for leather, check that its formula is made for this use. Test it first on a hidden area.
This advice applies to the Garbelle leather weekenders and garment bags, made of full-grain waxed cowhide leather.
Which cleaning solutions suit smooth leather?
The table shows what suits smooth leather, and what damages it.
| Solution | On smooth leather | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Leather cleaning lotion | Yes | Cleans and softens in a single pass |
| Diluted neutral soap | Yes | Cleans without removing the wax |
| Household or baby wipes | No | Their formula is not made for leather |
| Dish soap, household cleaner | No | They strip and dry out the leather |
| Alcohol | Only on an ink stain, after a test | Can discolor the leather |
How do you apply a cleaning lotion to a leather bag?
Apply the lotion in a small amount on a cloth, then wipe the surface. Cleaning takes four steps:
- Dust the leather with a dry microfiber cloth.
- Apply a little cleaning lotion to a cloth.
- Wipe the surface of the bag.
- Let the bag dry open, in the air, away from a radiator.
Treat an isolated stain without cleaning the whole bag. Blot a grease stain with a dry cloth, without water.
Which products should you avoid on a leather bag?
Four products damage smooth leather or mark it:
- Dish soap and household cleaner, which strip and dry out the leather.
- Household or baby wipes, whose formula is not made for leather.
- Alcohol, except on an ink stain and after a test.
- Too much water, which leaves rings.
How often should you condition the leather after cleaning?
Apply a thin layer of conditioning balm if the leather looks dry. A conditioning treatment every 3 to 6 months generally suits.
Our guide to leather conditioner for bags details the steps. For the full cleaning method, read our guide to leather bag cleaning and daily care.
