For centuries, humans have been using animal hides for various purposes. Skins from large animals like buffalo, elk, and cattle are usually used to make leather for bags, shoes, and other fashionable pieces. But one of the most preferred types of hide comes from cows, which is used to make luxury items like the coveted cowhide leather handbag.
Once you possess this timeless accessory, you must ensure that you handle and take care of it properly to enjoy it for years to come. Here are the essential tricks to keep your cowhide leather handbag in its prime condition.
How To Clean Cowhide Leather Handbags
Keeping the leather bag clean is a very crucial aspect of cowhide leather maintenance. Any impurities like dirt, dust, and other debris can damage the leather’s fibrous surface if left unattended. It could eventually cause the material to become brittle and crack. But if you exert efforts to keep the cowhide leather handbag clean, you can use it for many years.
Like all types of leather, cowhide leather requires special care and attention. You need to gently clean the bag using a soft brush to remove the dust and dirt. Then, get a clean cloth and use it to gently scrub the bag with a sudsy solution of dish soap and water to get a light lather. You may also use saddle soap or any mild soap for this purpose. You only need to ensure that you will never use cleaning materials with ammonia or bleach because that can damage the leather surface.
It is also crucial to work on small sections of the bag at a time and rinse completely before moving to the other parts. It will prevent too much water from seeping all over the leather. As soon as all parts are cleaned and rinsed completely, you must wipe the excess moisture before leaving it to dry. Remember to set the leather on a covered area and keep it away from direct sunlight. While you may be tempted to get a hairdryer to speed up the drying process, you must never do it to prevent damaging the leather surface.
How To Keep Cowhide Leather Handbag
When not in use, you need to make sure that you store your cowhide leather handbag in an appropriate place to avoid accidental damages. But you must not simply lock it away in a cabinet without proper precautions.
First, you must make sure that the storage space is cool and moisture-free. If you keep the bag in a damp spot, it will cause the leather to crack. If you have an open rack, you can place the handbag inside a cotton dust bag to let the leather breathe without accumulating dust. You must also avoid exposing it to direct sunlight because UV rays may fade the leather’s exterior.
You also need to avoid putting the bag in between two heavy items. It may bend it and compromise the shape. The strap must be placed inside the bag to avoid any scratches. It is also important to avoid hanging the bag to extend the life of its straps.
Owning a cowhide leather handbag is a privilege. If you manage to buy one, you must ensure that you will take care of it properly to get the most out of your investment. You may even get a leather conditioner and use it as part of your leather maintenance routine. If you take care of your leather bag properly, it will be part of your wardrobe for years.