How to care for your bag: essential tips according to the material

A well-chosen bag is much more than just an accessory. It completes an outfit, reflects a personality, and carries through the seasons with elegance… provided it is well cared for. Whether you prefer soft leather bags, practical canvas, or natural fibers inspired by summer, each material requires special attention.

In this article, we share simple and effective steps to sustainably maintain your bag, taking into account its specificities. Leather, canvas, denim, suede, or straw: follow the guide.

Why maintaining your bag is essential

Over time, a bag faces many aggressions: rubbing, humidity, light, pollution, accidental stains… Even the most robust materials can weaken if not protected or cleaned regularly.

Maintenance not only preserves the bag's aesthetic appearance but also significantly extends its lifespan, while maintaining its daily comfort of use.

1. Maintenance of leather bags

Leather is a noble, living material that develops a patina over time. To keep its suppleness, shine, and natural beauty, gentle but regular care is essential.

✅ What to do:

• Clean regularly with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust.

• Moisturize the leather every 2 to 3 months with a specific milk or cream for smooth leather. This prevents cracking and dryness.

• In case of a stain, gently blot with a slightly damp cloth. Never rub.

• Store the bag away from direct light and in a breathable fabric pouch.

❌ What to avoid:

• Abrasive or alcohol-based products.

• Excess water.

• Prolonged exposure to the sun or a heat source (radiator, car in full sun…).

Gonsac Tip: for grained leather bags, use a slightly waxy nourishing product to revive the color.

2. Maintenance of canvas bags

Practical and lightweight, canvas bags are often used daily. They require regular maintenance to prevent dirt from embedding in the fiber.

✅ What to do:

• Dust regularly with a soft brush.

• In case of a stain, use a damp sponge with a little mild soap or Marseille soap. Gently blot, without rubbing too hard.

• Let air dry, flat, away from a heat source.

❌ What to avoid:

• Machine washing, unless the manufacturer expressly indicates otherwise.

• Bleach or overly strong detergents.

Gonsac Tip: if the bag is light-colored, avoid placing it on the ground in public places to limit dirt transfer.

3. Care for denim bags

Original and casual, the denim bag is a great casual alternative. But like any textile, it can deform or fade if not properly cared for.

✅ What to do:

• Brush regularly to remove dust.

• Clean stains locally with a damp sponge + mild soap, using small circular motions.

• Let dry in the open air, without direct exposure to the sun.

❌ What to avoid:

• Fully soaking the bag.

• Machine washing in hot water (risk of shrinking or deformation).

• Tumble drying.

Gonsac Tip: to revive a slightly dull pair of jeans, you can lightly rub the surface with a clean cloth soaked in diluted white vinegar (1/3 vinegar to 2/3 water).

4. Care for suede bags

Suede (or nubuck) is a delicate material with a velvety touch that gives a lot of elegance to a bag. Its care requires gentleness and caution.

✅ What to do:

• Brush dry regularly with a special suede brush (crepe or brass) to remove dust and straighten the fibers.

• In case of an oily stain, immediately sprinkle with Sommières earth, let sit for a few hours, then brush off.

• Use a waterproofing spray specific for suede from the time of purchase and after each cleaning.

❌ What to avoid:

• Direct water: it leaves watermarks.

• Too much rubbing, which can "polish" the material.

Gonsac Tip: if your bag is slightly flattened in some areas, gently pass the steam from an iron at a distance of 10 cm, then immediately brush to restore volume to the fibers.

5. Care for natural fiber bags (straw, wicker, raffia, rattan)

Very trendy in summer, bags made of plant fibers are light and breathable, but particularly sensitive to humidity, heat, and stains.

✅ What to do:

• Dust gently with a dry cloth or a small brush.

• In case of dirt, lightly wipe with a damp cloth without soaking.

• Store in a dry place, away from humidity or a closed closet.

❌ What to avoid:

• Water: it can cause fibers to swell or break.

• Heavy loads: this can deform the weaving.

• Storage under pressure: these bags need space.

Gonsac tip: to extend the life of a straw bag, slip a fabric pouch inside to protect its contents and prevent rubbing.

General tips for properly storing your bag

Whatever the material of your bag, it is important to store it properly so it retains its shape and quality:

• Fill it lightly with tissue paper or a clean cloth to prevent it from deforming.

• Store it in a cotton pouch (usually provided with your Gonsac bag).

• Avoid stacks of compressed bags: each piece deserves its own space.

• Never leave a bag constantly exposed to light or dust.