To us, a bag does more than carry your necessities; it helps you tackle your everyday while keeping you organized. This likely means that your bag has been through a lot. It’s taken on stains, squeezed through crowds, and may have a few granola crumbs at the bottom.
We get it! It’s your everyday bag and your favorite- a tough combo to beat. And just think about your favorite travel bag! All the airports, floors, and train seats have been touched; we’re sure it’s ready for a good cleanse. We know that with any favorite bag comes wear and tear. Here are our top tips for keeping your favorite Sherpani Bag in great shape for years to come.
How to Clean Your Handbag
Firstly, we recommend washing your Sherpani bag every six months to keep the fabric clean and fresh-feeling.
What materials do I need to clean my Bag?
Tools:
- A small handheld vacuum or lint roller
- Toothbrush
- White cloth (to avoid color dye transfer to the bag)
- Sink or tub
Materials:
- Liquid dish detergent
- Warm water
- Cotton swabs
What’s the best way to clean my Bag?
Step 1: Empty the contents of your bag.
Once you’ve done this, it’s time to break out the vacuum or the lint roller. Begin to lint roll or vacuum the entirety of the outside of the bag. Next, try your best to turn your tote inside out. This is easier if your bag is on the smaller side, like the Mei AT crossbody. Next, take your lint roller or vacuum and begin to vacuum or roll up any dust, crumbs, or dirt that may be lingering at the bottom of the bag.
Step 2. Dampen your cloth with warm water
Take your cloth and wipe the entire bag down from top to bottom. Take your time, and be sure to dampen evenly across the bag. And pro tip, we suggest avoiding any colored clothes or materials when it’s wet, as the dye may bleed onto your favorite bag!
Step 3. Get rid of stains
Examine your bag and pinpoint the areas where stains remain. Create a soap solution with a few drops of dishwasher soap and warm water. Dip the white cloth into the solution and blot the stained areas. Stubborn stains? Take your toothbrush, dip it into the soapy solution and begin to scrub. This should get out the peskiest of stains! Rinse your white cloth and dampen it with warm water. Finish by wiping down your bag and removing any remaining soap residue.
Step 4. Cleaning your bag’s hardware
Create a solution with mild soap and warm water. Dip your cotton swab or cloth into the solution. Rub the swab or cloth on any hardware that needs some shine. After, wipe down the hardware with water to remove any soap residue. Your hardware will be looking good as new!
Step 5. Air dry your bag
Let your bag take some much-needed TLC by letting it air dry. Try not to dry your bag in direct sunlight, which can cause the color to fade. Pro Tip- stuff with plain, undyed tissue paper to help the bag hold its shape while drying. This is especially useful for larger bags like the Boston Weekender or the Jaunt Garment duffel bag.
With these at-home cleaning tips for bags and purses, your Sherpani bag can look like new for years! (Most of our customers claim to keep their bags for 10+ years.)
Thanks Kate! I love my bag but it’s going in the machine on cold.
I have had the Skye bag for years. I machine wash on cold and hang dry. They always look great.