Summer Handbag Care: Prepping Your Bags for the Heat
Summer is just around the corner! While the longer days and sunny weather are a joy for us, they can be a bit of a challenge for our handbags. Heat, UV rays, and humidity can take a toll on your favourite pieces, so it’s important to care for them to keep them fabulous and functional for as long as possible.
Here’s your ultimate guide to protecting your handbags from summer’s sneaky wear and tear.
How Does Summer Affect Your Handbags?
☀️ UV Damage: Just like our skin, handbags are vulnerable to UV rays. Sun exposure can cause leather to fade or even crack, while fabric and canvas bags may lose their vibrancy over time.
🌡️ Heat Damage: Excessive heat can dry out leather, leading to cracks and a dull appearance. Adhesives holding parts of the bag together may also weaken, causing wear or sagging.
💧 Humidity Woes: Humidity can encourage mildew, especially in fabric or poorly ventilated storage. For leather, moisture can seep in and create spots or stains.
To keep your bags in their prime, a little extra care during summer goes a long way.
Top Tips for Summer Handbag Care
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Avoid Direct Sunlight
When you’re not using your bag, store it in a cool, shaded spot to protect it from UV rays. If you’re out and about, avoid leaving it on hot surfaces or in direct sunlight for too long. A breathable dust bag or a light scarf can also help shield it when it’s not in use. -
Keep Things Cool
Never leave your handbags in a hot car, especially leather ones! High temperatures can cause the leather to dry out and adhesives to melt. If you’re carrying your bag on a hot day, try not to overload it, as the weight combined with softened materials can lead to stretching or sagging. -
Hydrate Your Leather
Just like us, leather needs hydration to stay supple and fresh. Use a high-quality leather conditioner to keep it moisturised and prevent cracks. A small application every couple of weeks during summer will work wonders. -
Maintain Structure
Hot weather can make bag materials softer, leading to a loss of shape. Handbag shapers are your secret weapon here! They gently support your bag’s structure without stretching it, so it stays upright and chic, even on the hottest days. -
Combat Humidity
Store your bags in a well-ventilated area to prevent humidity from wreaking havoc. If you notice any moisture, use a clean, dry cloth to wipe it off immediately.
Post-Summer TLC
After a day out in the sun, give your handbag a quick once-over. Dust off any sand, wipe away sweat marks, and let it air out in a cool place. This little routine will help your bag stay fresh and ready for your next adventure.
Keep Your Bags Looking Brilliant
From avoiding sun damage to maintaining their shape, a little love goes a long way in keeping your collection looking its best.
Here’s to a stylish, handbag-friendly summer! ☀️ 👜