Accessories Care Guide

When it comes to caring for your accessories, a little attention goes a long way—but proper care isn't one-size-fits-all. Here, we've gathered everything you need to know, from stain removal to storage. Bookmark this, and your bags, belts, and shoes will thank you. 

How to Care for Leather

Everyday care

The best leather care is preventative, as regular upkeep means fewer issues. Wipe away surface dirt and dust with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid direct heat and sunlight, including sunny windowsills and overheated cars. Note that croc-embossed leathers are especially sensitive.  

What you put on your skin matters, too. Let hand cream fully absorb before touching your bag and shoes. Take caution with oils, cosmetics, perfumes, and sanitizers as well.  

Be mindful when wearing intricate embellishments, sharp hardware, or chunky jewelry to minimize accidental grazing. The same goes for any abrasive surfaces. And because leather can stretch, resist the urge to overfill a handbag—you'll risk compromising its shape.  

Is leather waterproof?

Leather is water-resistant—meaning it can handle a light splash—but it’s not waterproof, so you'll need to blot (never rub!) any moisture immediately with a clean cloth. Then, let it air dry naturally; any artificial heat can harden leather. While it dries, stuff the interior with tissue paper to help the bag retain its shape. Shoe trees do the same for footwear. 

How to clean leather

For simple surface cleaning, a soft dry cloth is all you need—preferably cotton, which won't scratch. On textured leathers, like pebbled and embossed exotics, always work with the grain and not against it—if you’re unsure, lightly run your fingers over the leather, the smoother direction is the one to follow. To clean the seams and crevices, use a soft-bristle brush. 

For embedded grime and buildup, wipe with a slightly damp cloth—emphasis on slight. Croc-embossed leather is the exception, use a dry microfiber cloth only. 

Avoid using baby wipes, acetone, bleach, and household cleaners. If you decide to use a dedicated leather cleaner, always test on a small, hidden area first. 

How to remove stains from leather

When it comes to removing stains, professional care is always the safest route. Just remember that time is of the essence—the longer you wait, the more the stain can darken or become increasingly fixed.

How to remove scratches from leather

For light surface scratches, try rubbing the area with a clean fingertip—the natural oils in your skin can help diminish their appearance. For deeper marks, apply a bit of leather repair cream and, with a soft cloth, work in gently using small, circular motions. 

Should I condition my leather? 

Conditioning maintains suppleness and prevents cracking over time. While not necessary, it can help if your leather is starting to feel stiff. Smooth leathers benefit the most; pebbled and heavily grained ones need it less. 

A word on vegetable-tanned leather: Made with natural tannins from bark, leaves, and roots, it easily absorbs oils—so condition sparingly. Note that conditioning can deepen the color. This is a feature, not a flaw, allowing your leather to soften and develop a beautiful patina over time.  

How to Care for Suede

Everyday care

Is suede a leather? Yes, but with velvety texture—what's known as the nap. Instead of wiping dirt and dust off, you'll need to brush with a suede-specific brush. Do so in the direction of the nap and be careful not to apply too much pressure.  

Limit sun exposure, which can cause fading, and be mindful of color transfer—suede can stain clothing, especially when damp. Consider using a suede protectant spray and reapply once a year.  

Can suede get wet?

No, so steer clear of rain, snow, and extreme humidity. But if your suede does get wet—and hasn't been treated with a water-repellent spray yet—blot gently with a clean, dry cloth and let it dry. As with other leathers, no hairdryers, direct heat, or sunlight.

How to remove marks from suede

Blot and let air dry.Then lift away any dirt with a suede brush.For tougher stains, try a suede eraser. For more serious, stubborn stains, consult a professional.

How to Care for Haircalf

Everyday care

Haircalf is exactly as it sounds—leather with the hair left on, sheared to a smooth, sleek finish. Soft to the touch and highly delicate, it can easily shed and requires a lighter hand.  

The color may fade over time, so handle with care and avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight. Watch out for anything that might catch, scratch, snag, or thin the surface—and while more water-tolerant than suede, it's best kept away from moisture and rain.  

How to clean haircalf

Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia, and acetone; instead, opt for mild soap or a leather cleaner specifically designed for cowhide leather.  

Apply a leather conditioner every few months, but remember to brush, clean, and test a small patch first. Look for a formula that's pH-balanced and free from silicone and waxes, which can coat rather than nourish.  

How to Care for Raffia

Made from natural palm fibers, raffia is lightweight and surprisingly resilient. That said, you should still handle with care. Raffia is prone to snagging—think jewelry, rough surfaces, and sharp edges. Avoid contact with oils, perfumes, and cosmetics. And make sure your bag or shoe isn't squashed or pressed flat.  

Keep away from direct sunlight and excessive heat—hot cars included—which can weaken the structure and accelerate fading. Heavy rain and damp surfaces are equally damaging; raffia contains a resin that stiffens and warps when wet. Clean with a soft-bristle brush or by blotting gently with a barely damp cloth. Air-dry only and, to help hold the shape, stuff the item loosely.  

Last but not least: Due to raffia's handcrafted nature, minor variations are normal—and part of its charm. 

How to Care for Canvas

Canvas shoes and handbags are the easiest to maintain. Wipe any surface dirt with a dry cloth. In case of spills or stains, spot clean with lukewarm or cool water and pH-neutral soap—dab in circular motions, don't scrub—then allow to dry naturally. Do not wash, bleach, iron, or dry clean—and don't toss in the washing machine or dryer either. To prevent color transfer, take extra care when wearing canvas with dark-colored clothing like jeans.

Storage Dos & Don’ts

How to store handbags

First, prep the bag. Clean, empty, and stuff it with tissue paper or a soft bag insert—never newspaper, which can transfer ink. Zip and fasten all closures. For leather, suede, and haircalf styles, consider wrapping metal hardware in the same tissue paper to prevent any imprints during long-term storage. 

Then, store upright in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place away from direct sunlight, heat, and humidity. Make sure nothing is stacked on top or pressing against it, and don't hang it by the straps or handles—both can cause unwanted stretching and distortion. Skip the plastic containers; whether raffia or leather, your handbag will need to breathe. Don't forget the dust bag.  

How to store shoes

Choose a spot that's cool, dry, and free from direct sunlight, heat, and humidity. Dust bags and shoe boxes offer added protection while cedar shoe trees help maintain shape, absorb excess moisture, and neutralize odors. 

How to store belts

To roll or not to roll? We're in the latter camp—and advise hanging belts flat by the buckle. That way, there's no risk of the material catching (raffia) or creasing and cracking (leather). As with all accessories, store somewhere cool and dry.