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How to Care for Leather Bags – The Complete Leather Care Guide
Caring for your Maxwell-Scott leather bag or accessory is refreshingly simple, thanks to the exceptional quality of our Italian full-grain leathers. Crafted to endure, each piece is designed to age beautifully, developing a rich patina that reflects your journey and enhances its character over time.
With thoughtful care and a refined approach, your leather companion may be cherished for generations.
With thoughtful care and a refined approach, your leather companion may be cherished for generations.
Our Leather
Our naturally tanned Italian leathers are sourced exclusively from the finest full-grain hides, selected for their strength, resilience and refined texture. This superior structure requires minimal intervention, gentle cleaning and occasional conditioning are all that is needed to preserve its natural beauty.
Unlike corrected or synthetic leathers, full-grain leather develops a distinctive patina through daily use, sunlight exposure and handling, enhancing its depth of colour and individuality. Minor marks and surface scratches become part of the leather’s unique narrative, lending each piece unmistakable character.
Our Different Leathers
Each Maxwell-Scott collection is crafted using carefully selected leather types, chosen to complement both form and function.
Classic
Our signature leather. Traditional and enduring, this is full-grain, vegetable-tanned leather of exceptional quality.
Pebbled
Sleek and elegant, our textured pebbled leather is favoured for its natural resistance to scratches and abrasion.
Nappa
Exceptionally soft and supple, Nappa brings a refined smoothness, and in vivid hues, a confident note of colour.
Croco
Heat-embossed to reveal a timeless crocodile effect, distinctive, refined, and beautifully tactile.
Suede
Velvety and luxurious, suede is crafted from the underside of the hide and rewards a gentle, considered approach.
Soft Grain
Modern, matte and butter-soft, a relaxed finish that pairs beautifully with understated daily style.
Leather Care in 60 Seconds
For effortless maintenance and enduring elegance, follow this refined routine:
- Wipe surface dust weekly using a soft cloth.
- Clean only when required using mild soap and lukewarm water.
- Condition sparingly once or twice per year.
- Allow leather to dry naturally, never apply artificial heat.
- Store in a breathable dust bag when not in use.
How to Clean Leather Bags Safely
Gentle, occasional cleaning preserves both the appearance and longevity of fine leather. This guidance is particularly useful for everyday companions such as leather laptop bags and luxury leather briefcases.
- Remove surface dust:
Wipe gently with a clean, dry cloth or soft brush. - Prepare a mild solution:
Mix lukewarm water with gentle soap. Avoid detergents, alcohol or baby wipes. - Clean delicately:
Use a barely damp cloth and soft circular motions. Never soak the leather. - Dry naturally:
Leave at room temperature, away from heat and direct sunlight. - Condition once dry:
Apply a small amount of natural leather balm (patch test first).
For a beautifully restrained finish, we recommend a natural balm formulated with nourishing oils and beeswax, applied sparingly, it helps preserve suppleness and encourages a graceful patina.
Discover the Maxwell-Scott Leather Balm >
How to Condition & Protect Leather
Conditioning replenishes the leather’s natural oils, maintaining flexibility, preventing dryness and enriching colour. Applied with restraint, it protects the integrity of the hide while allowing character to develop naturally.
How often should you condition leather?
Light use: every 3–4 months
Frequent use: every 4–6 weeks
Maxwell-Scott full-grain leather: once or twice per year (or as required)
- Avoid prolonged exposure to rain, heat and strong sunlight.
- Never dry leather near radiators or with hairdryers.
- If your bag becomes damp, blot gently and allow it to dry naturally.
- Apply conditioner lightly, building gradually rather than over-treating.
Common Leather Care Mistakes to Avoid
Preserving fine leather relies as much on restraint as it does on care.
do:
clean gently
clean gently
Use a soft cloth with a mild soap-and-water solution when needed. Keep moisture minimal and never soak the hide.
do:
condition sparingly
condition sparingly
A light application of natural balm helps preserve suppleness and colour depth, applied occasionally, not frequently.
don't:
use chemicals
use chemicals
Avoid chemical cleaners, alcohol-based products and harsh detergents. They can strip oils and damage the finish.
don't:
apply heat
apply heat
Never dry leather with artificial heat. If caught in rain, blot gently and allow it to air dry naturally.
How to Care for Suede Leather
Suede is prized for its refined softness and tactile elegance. Crafted from the underside of the hide, it features a delicate nap that benefits from a gentle, considered approach.
Protect suede from moisture wherever possible. If marks appear while damp, blot gently with a clean cloth and allow to dry naturally. For oil-based marks, a light application of cornstarch left overnight can help lift residue before careful brushing.
How to Clean Pigskin Suede
Pigskin suede offers exceptional softness and flexibility, lending itself beautifully to refined daily use. To preserve its flawless finish, follow these expert techniques:
- Brush regularly: Lift the nap and remove surface dust using a specialist suede brush.
- Spot clean: Gently dab marks using white vinegar or rubbing alcohol.
- Treat oil & grease: Apply cornstarch overnight, then brush or vacuum away.
- Protect: Apply a premium suede protector spray to guard against moisture and stains.
- Commercial suede cleaners: Use as directed and always test on a discreet area first.
- Refine marks: Use a clean pencil eraser for light scuffs.
Luxury Stain Triage Guide
Prompt, thoughtful action is essential. For ink or persistent staining, we recommend consulting a professional leather specialist.
- Water marks: Blot gently with a clean cloth and allow to air dry naturally.
- Oil & grease: Apply cornstarch overnight, then brush away carefully.
- Ink: Seek professional leather cleaning, do not attempt home treatment.
- Dye transfer (e.g., denim): Wipe very gently with a barely damp cloth; specialist cleaners may be required.
- Salt marks: Dab lightly with a cloth dampened with distilled water, then dry naturally.
How to Store Leather Bags Properly
When not in use, store your bag with care to preserve its structure, colour and finish. A breathable cotton dust bag protects from dust and helps prevent discolouration from sunlight.
For structured styles such as a leather briefcase or leather laptop bag, empty compartments and pad lightly to help maintain the bag’s shape.
- Store in a breathable cotton dust bag.
- Stuff gently with acid-free tissue paper or a soft cloth to maintain shape.
- Keep in a cool, dry, well-ventilated environment.
- Avoid plastic bags (they can trap moisture).
- Do not hang bags for prolonged periods.
General Leather Care FAQs
How often should I clean my leather bag?
Light surface cleaning every two to four weeks is ideal, depending on usage.
Can leather get wet?
Light rain is generally harmless, but prolonged moisture should be avoided. Always dry naturally.
Can I use baby wipes on leather?
No, they can strip natural oils and compromise the finish over time.
What household products can clean leather?
A mild soap and lukewarm water solution is the safest approach.
How do I remove stains from leather?
Blot immediately. For stubborn marks (especially ink), consult a professional leather specialist.
Need A Little Inspiration?
Men’s Business Collection
Discover time-honoured leather briefcases, messenger bags and smart accessories for the modern gentleman, handcrafted by skilled artisans in the heart of Italy.
Women’s Business Collection
Designed to meet the needs of the woman on-the-go, our women’s collection includes an elegant selection of premium leather handbags, timeless crossbody bags and sleek purses.