The Summer Edit
Style advice
How to care for your bag
A bag isn’t a life necessity for a man. One doesn’t need them to uphold life quality, but one does need them to retain the standards that one has grown accustomed to.
How to care for your bag? A bag might not be essential for a man's existence, but it's certainly vital for maintaining the standards we cherish. While not necessary for life itself, a bag is crucial for upholding the lifestyle to which we have become accustomed. Men's bags are our constant companions, yet we often overlook the care they require. To address this, we've crafted a guide on how to properly care for your bag.
Text: Emanuel Kristing | Photography: Ion Kombokis Lancing | Published: 2019-06-30
The Elegance of a Man is Reflected in His Bag
Someone once remarked that "a man's elegance is measured by the state of his bag." Initially, we were sceptical, but upon reflection, we realised that the condition of one's bag truly does reflect a man's elegance. To be deemed elegant, a man must care for and maintain his belongings. When investing in quality, it's crucial to preserve that quality. But how should one go about this?
Treat Your Bag – It's Essential
Men often don't mind spending a bit more on bags, justifying it as a long-term investment. A bag can indeed serve as a worthwhile investment, but only if it receives the care it deserves. Different materials require different treatments, and we're here to guide you through them:
How to Care for a Leather Bag
Regularly clean your leather bag with a damp cloth or wet tissue, taking care not to rub too harshly. If a grease stain occurs, avoid water and instead try to absorb it with a cloth. While the bag is still slightly damp, apply a neutral leather balm. For adding colour, specific pastes are available. Always allow your bag to air dry naturally, without rushing the process.
Canvas
When purchasing a canvas bag, the first step should always be to impregnate it. For soap stains, gently dab the spot with a cloth, being careful not to spread the stain. If the stain persists, use an old toothbrush to gently scrub the canvas fibres, which usually resolves the issue.
Suede
Suede is not as delicate as many believe. With the right products, a suede bag can be as robust as leather or canvas. For light cleaning, boil some water and hold the bag about 15cm above the steam. The steam will lift the natural fibres, making dirt easier to remove. Finish by brushing the suede lightly, and always remember to impregnate your suede items.
Proper Storage is Key
When not using your bag, proper storage is essential. Once a bag loses its shape, restoring it can be challenging, if not impossible. To maintain its shape, stuff it with clothing or paper. Many premium bags come with a dust bag, which should be used to extend their lifespan.
A Handy Tip for Sunny Days
On a clear, sunny day, it's tempting to be outdoors. However, if you own an expensive leather bag, avoid leaving it in direct sunlight. Sun exposure can dry out leather, leading to irreparable damage and colour fading. It's best to keep your leather bags with you. Additionally, avoid using lotions as they can leave oily stains on handles, which are difficult to remove.
