Caring for Your Leather Bag or Wallet in Malaysia's Humid Climate

One question we get most of the time from our clients is "How do we care for our leather bags?". Today we will be sharing with you how - especially in Malaysia's hot and humid climate where leather goods can be prone to damage if not cared for properly. Here are some simple tips on how to care for your leather bags and wallets in Malaysia's climate:

Keep your leather bag or wallet out of direct sunlight

Leather is sensitive to sunlight and heat, so avoid leaving your bag or wallet in direct sunlight or in a hot car. 

Be mindful of what you put in your leather bag or wallet to prevent damage

Avoid leaking pens, water bottles, and makeup by checking if they are sealed properly before putting them in your bag. Use a pencil case for your pens, a makeup bag for your cosmetics, and check your water bottle before storing it in your bag.

Avoid contact with new denim

To prevent dye transfer and tough stains on your light-colored leather bag or wallet, avoid wearing them with new denim jeans. The dye from the jeans can easily transfer onto the leather and be difficult to remove. Protect your bag by washing your new jeans before wearing them and being mindful of what you wear with your light-colored bag.

Avoid exposing your leather bag or wallet to water

Water can damage leather and cause it to crack or warp. If your bag or wallet gets wet, gently pat it dry with a soft cloth and let it air dry. Avoid using a hairdryer or other heat source to dry your bag or wallet, as this can cause further damage.

Use a bag stand to keep the handles in good condition

If you have a leather bag with handles, consider using a bag stand to keep the handles in good condition. A bag stand allows you to store your bag upright, keeping the handles from touching the ground or other surfaces. This can help prevent scuffs and scratches on the handles, which can be difficult to repair.

Avoid using Thirsty Hippo to absorb moisture

While it may be tempting to use a moisture absorber like Thirsty Hippo to keep your leather bags or wallets dry, it's best to avoid using them. The moisture spill from the container can cause irreversible damage to your bag, changing the leather texture into a hard, cardboard-like material. Instead, opt for using a soft cloth to gently wipe away any moisture from your bag or wallet, and store it in a cool, dry place.

Use acid-free paper to keep your bags in shape

To help your leather bags or wallets maintain their shape, consider stuffing them with acid-free paper. Acid-free paper is gentle on leather and won't cause any discoloration or damage. Simply stuff your bag with the paper to help it keep its shape while in storage. Be sure to remove the paper before using your bag or wallet again.

Store your leather bag or wallet properly

When not in use, store your leather bag or wallet in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing your bag or wallet in a plastic bag or other airtight container, as this can trap moisture and cause mold or mildew to form.

Clean your leather bag or wallet regularly

To keep your bag or wallet looking its best, clean it regularly with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents, as these can damage the leather. If your bag or wallet has stains or marks that won't come off with a damp cloth, take it to a professional leather cleaner.

By following these simple tips, you can keep your leather bags and wallets looking their best in Malaysia's hot and humid climate. Remember to treat your leather goods with care, and they will last for many years to come.