Purchasing a genuine leather backpack is a fantastic choice for those who want their backpacks to last for years. This “How-To” guide helps you do just that; we’ll tell you how to prolong the life of your leather backpack with proper cleaning techniques, stain prevention tips, and proper storage suggestions.
So, pull out your leather and dive in with us.
Proper Cleaning Techniques
First up, know your leather. The following cleaning guide is for genuine leather and will not work on faux leathers. (Note: if you have a vegan leather backpack, skip the conditioning; vegan leather is inherently waterproof and doesn’t need it.)
You’ll Need:
- A toothbrush or small bristle brush
- A clean, soft cloth
- Leather cleaner
- Leather conditioner
- First, take your leather and gently brush away any dirt and debris with a toothbrush or small bristle brush.
- Using the leather cleaner, scrub the backpack in circular motions with a bristle brush. Wait for the bag to dry completely before applying a leather conditioner.
- Once the bag is dry, use your clean soft cloth to apply the leather conditioner. Add a small amount of conditioner to the cloth and apply it to the bag using circular motions. Let the conditioner cure for an hour, then apply an additional coat if needed. Let the bag dry completely for 24 hours before using it.
- “Rinse and repeat.” Be sure to go through this cleaning and conditioning process every six months.
Avoid Set-In Stains
Genuine leather backpacks are made from porous skin, which means your real leather backpack can absorb liquids and potentially face discoloration and/or stains. Obviously, it’s important to avoid stains as much as possible.
Here’s how:
Waterproof Your Backpack
- The first step: waterproof your leather backpack before using it. This is crucial.
- Next, clean away any dirt or debris from the bag with a cloth or toothbrush. Spray the entire bag with a waterproof leather spray and let it sit for an hour. Add additional coats as necessary (we suggest around two-three coats), then let dry completely before using.
- Follow these waterproofing steps every three-four months.
Wipe Your Leather Backpack Down
- Keep a clean cloth with your bag at all times. This way, you have something to quickly wipe down your bag should you encounter poor weather or an unfortunate spill. This will come in handy especially if you’re sporting a leather diaper bag, and you have an adorable, yet messy, toddler tagging along.
Store Your Leather Backpack Properly
As previously mentioned, a real leather backpack is made of porous material that can easily absorb and set stains. Because of this, it’s important to store your leather backpack away from any possible encounter with the elements.
How to Store Leather Backpacks:
- Away from windows and/or sunlight
- Do not leave them in hot cars/trunks, garages, or outdoors
- Store in a dry area with good ventilation
- When storing for prolonged periods, place a cloth padding insert into the bag to avoid creases
- Avoid hanging from the handles; store backpacks on shelves when possible
Choose Genuine Leather. Choose Atlas Supply Co.
Don’t let this leather care guide scare you away! Yes, there are a few steps to maintaining a real leather backpack, but we promise it’s worth it. Choosing a genuine leather backpack is a great choice. There are several advantages to purchasing and using a genuine leather backpack versus a faux leather:
- You can easily clean dirt and dust off leather with a simple damp cloth.
- Genuine leather only gets better-looking with age; it looks beautiful now and for years to come.
- Genuine leather also gets better with age as it molds to your liking and becomes the perfect form-fit bag.
- Leather holds up well to heavy use, which fits perfectly with the Atlas Supply Co.motto of having one bag that works for everything.
- Genuine leather lasts much longer than synthetic leather. If you want a bag that will last for years and years, genuine leather is the way to go.