Leather Bag Care in Winter and Rain: 7 Rules

As autumn arrives, rain, humidity and cold weather mark the start of the most challenging season for leather bags. A few simple habits will help your bag come through the season looking as good as on day one.

1. If it gets wet, blot, don't rub

If your bag gets wet in the rain, remove the excess water with a dry, soft cloth by pressing, not rubbing. Rubbing can leave marks on the surface.

2. Don't dry it next to a radiator

Let wet leather dry naturally at room temperature. A radiator, hairdryer or any direct heat source can stiffen and crack the leather.

3. Fill it while it dries

Placing acid-free paper or soft padding inside the bag while it dries helps it keep its shape. Newspaper is best avoided, as it can leave ink marks.

4. Treat suede separately

Suede is more sensitive to water and oil. On rainy days, the easiest solution is to keep your suede bag protected. When dust builds up, brush it gently in one direction with a suede brush. For details, take a look at our Suede Bag Guide.

5. Limit contact with cosmetics

Hand cream is used more often in winter. Direct contact between leather and cream, perfume or cologne can cause permanent marks and colour changes. After applying cream, wait a few minutes before holding your bag.

6. Take care with dark colours when first used

With dark leather and suede products, slight pigment transfer may occur onto light-coloured clothing during the first few uses. This is a characteristic of the natural material; take care in the first weeks when wearing them with light-coloured jackets and coats.

7. Store correctly out of season

Store bags you are not using in a dust bag, in a cool, dry place. Put chains and straps inside the bag, and keep zips and flaps closed. Every DAPHMIN bag is sent with a cloth dust cover; you can use it for storage.

All our care advice on one page: Care guide.