Leather Care

Leather Care Tips and Instructions for Leather Bags & Accessories

Genuine full-grain leather is a versatile natural material and, with proper care, can last for many years. To help you enjoy your Olvri leather goods longer, use this handy guide of easy-to-follow care tips.

Note: Always test any cleaning or conditioning step on a small, hidden area first.

Everyday Leather Care

  • Leather is a natural material that needs to breathe. Avoid overfilling your laptop, messenger, duffle, or satchel bag to prevent unnecessary stress on seams and panels.
  • To maintain a natural luster, wipe dust with a soft, dry cotton cloth.
  • Keep leather away from direct, prolonged sunlight—it can dry the material and may cause fading or cracks.
  • If you prefer a slightly darker patina, very brief, indirect sun exposure (20–30 minutes) can accelerate natural aging. Avoid overheating and use caution—color change can be permanent.
  • Avoid contact with heavily embellished garments or sharp edges that can scuff the surface.
  • During humid or rainy periods, take extra care to dry your bag naturally after use and ventilate it to prevent odors.
  • Keep leather away from water and high humidity as much as possible to avoid musty smells.

Leather Products Storage Tips

  • Store leather in a breathable cotton dust bag for ventilation. (If needed, add a tiny air hole in the bag.)
  • For short-term rain protection only, you may use plastic; avoid long-term plastic storage, which can trap moisture.
  • Keep bags and small goods away from direct sunlight to prevent drying and fading of natural oils.
  • Do not store near artificial heat sources (e.g., heaters); excess heat can cause cracking.
  • Avoid damp areas that promote mildew; choose a cool, dry location with airflow.
  • Excessive dryness can also be harmful—aim for moderate, stable conditions.

Leather Cleaning Tips

  • Daily spills happen. Blot gently with a soft, dry white cotton cloth.
  • For light surface soil, use a dry cloth first. If needed, use slightly lukewarm water on the cloth and let the leather dry naturally.
  • Do not machine-wash, soak, or use a hair dryer/heat to dry leather.
  • If chewing gum sticks to the surface, place an ice cube in a plastic bag and rest it on the spot for a few minutes, then lift the gum carefully.
  • Avoid chemicals, saddle soap, furniture polish, cleaning solvents, abrasive cleaners, soaps, or ammonia solutions.

Leather Conditioning

  • Use a specialized leather conditioner sparingly to maintain moisture; wipe off any excess with a clean white cotton cloth. Some conditioners may slightly darken leather—test first.
  • Oils and waxes can alter appearance. If you choose an oil- or wax-based product, select one intended specifically for leather and apply lightly.
  • Routine conditioning 1–2 times per year is typical; if exposed to sun or dry climates, 3–4 times per year may be appropriate.

How to Remove Odor from Leather Products

  • A natural leather aroma usually softens with regular use over 1–2 weeks.
  • Brief, indirect sun exposure (20–30 minutes, not longer) for 2–3 days can help—avoid overheating to prevent drying or glue failure.
  • Lightly dusting the interior with a small amount of unscented talc or baking soda (then wiping clean) can help absorb odors. Test first and avoid heavy application.

Leather Handling

  • Handle with clean hands; leather can absorb oils and lotions.
  • Address stains promptly. For dry, powdery spills, gently brush away and blot.
  • For some organic stains, a small amount of crushed white chalk left overnight may help absorption; wipe away with a clean cloth the next day.
  • If you use your bag occasionally, lightly stuff it with bubble wrap or acid-free paper to help it keep its shape.
  • Consider covering hardware with acid-free tissue to minimize impressions during storage.
  • Ensure items are completely dry before storing to prevent odor or mildew.