The inside of a leather bag is cleaned according to its lining, not the outer leather. This page shows how to empty, dust and clean a cotton-polyester lining, and how to treat a suede interior. You will also see what to avoid so you do not mark the leather.
How do you clean the inside of a leather bag?
Start by emptying the bag and turning the pockets out when possible. The cleaning then depends on the lining.
The Garbelle leather weekenders and garment bags are made of full-grain cowhide leather. The Garbelle leather urban backpack has a cotton-polyester lining, like the other Garbelle backpacks and messenger bags.
How do you clean a cotton-polyester lining?
A cotton-polyester lining accepts a damp cloth and a drop of mild soap, then drying with the bag open. Wet only the cloth, never the leather itself. Five steps are enough:
- Empty the bag and open the pockets.
- Turn the pockets out when possible.
- Vacuum with the brush attachment to remove crumbs and dust.
- Wipe with a damp cloth and a drop of mild soap.
- Let the bag dry open, in the air, away from a radiator.
How do you clean a suede interior?
A natural suede interior, found in Garbelle cases, should only be brushed dry.
What should you do if the bag smells of mold?
If stains or a musty smell appear, follow our method to clean leather bags with mold.
What should you avoid inside a leather bag?
Four mistakes damage the leather or its lining:
- Too much water, which leaves rings and stiffens the leather.
- Alcohol, except on an ink stain and after a test.
- Dish soap and household cleaner, which strip and dry out the leather.
- Household or baby wipes, whose formula is not made for leather.
For the full cleaning method, read our guide to leather bag cleaning and daily care.
