Leather & Handbag Care

The Ultimate Guide To Leather Bag Care
Leather Artisans & Craftsmanship

At Brix + Bailey we strive to provide our customers with products of the highest quality and value. Our bags are crafted from durable leather, which can last a lifetime. The leather we use is sourced from the highest quality, safety tested, and ethically obtained by-products of the food industry. Craftmanship sits at the core of everything that is Brix + Bailey, alongside design and sustainability. It is our passion, and thankfully one that we share with our AMAZING factory and leather tannery in Italy, where the skill and knowledge are unrivaled.

Animal Print Leather Weekend Bag

Ethically Sourced 

We work very closely with our lovely friends in Italy to source the best Italian leather which is then used to craft each, and every, Brix + Bailey bag in small artisan factories, filled to the brim with skilled leather workers.

Our partners all follow best practices within the leather manufacturing industry and are following guidelines for continual improvement. Ethically sourced and produced [ no compromises ] these leathers and artisans are a key part of our brand. P.S. We also strive to use all small offcuts of leather so nothing is wasted....good plan Batman!

How To Take Care Of Your Leather Bag

As a natural material, leather will change over time, developing a unique patina that reflects your journey. We believe that this natural aging process should be celebrated as it creates a one-of-a-kind look that is unique to you.

At Brix + Bailey, we use different types of leather to achieve a variety of results. Each leather has its own unique properties that are used for different purposes. Some leathers are used to provide structure, while others are used to create a slouchy, gathered, or lightweight look. 

Proper care for your new scrumptious leather bag or accessory helps to preserve the leather and maintain its appearance. Taking the time to clean, condition, and protect your leather items will prolong their lifespan and keep them looking great.
To keep your Brix + Bailey leather bag and accessory in top-notch condition, extra care should be taken to keep it as dry as possible [ don't forget your brolly on a rainy day ] and away from bright lights and heat. Leather will suffer from all of the above, so let's give it a fighting chance! the metal hardware on your product may sometimes become a little tarnished, but not to worry, just give it a clean with a soft cleaning cloth and it will be good as new in a jiffy.

Leather can be a little quirky; we think it adds to the uniqueness of Brix + Bailey products! Bear in mind that leather is a natural product and it can stretch. Avoid overfilling your new handbag or accessory and it will maintain its original shape.

Handbag Linings

At Brix + Bailey, many of our handbags are unlined, which may reveal markings on the reverse side of the leather. These markings are often indicators of the quality of leather used in the bag's construction. If your bag is lined, it is made of cotton canvas. The rest feature the brand's hand illustrated drawings that have come from the family archives.

Hardware, Zips & Fittings

The metal fittings on all Brix + Bailey products are made of coated and uncoated brass, which will develop a unique patina over time as you use and handle them. These brass fittings may have small irregular marks and may not be completely flat or uniform in color. We believe this to be a positive feature, as brass is a natural material and, like the leather we use, the metal fittings will change over time, making your bag unique to you. The air and chemicals in your skin will also play a role in the development of the patina.

 

Leather Bag Care

How To Store Your Leather Handbag 

To maintain the shape of your handbags, it's advisable to fill them with paper or bubble wrap before storing them in a shoe bag or a pillowcase made of natural fabric. Avoid using newspaper, as its color may transfer onto the bag. After cleaning your bag, ensure it is completely dry before storing. If you plan to keep your bag stored for an extended period, remember to open the buckles and straps to prevent any impressions on the leather. Keep your product safe and sound when not in use using the dust bag which accompanied it. This is the easiest way to keep your new bag looking its best as it avoids direct sunlight, scratches, and general dust exposure. Store it on its base somewhere cool and comfortable until you next want to take it out and about. 

Leather Care Products We Love

There are many fabulous leather care products on the market. Take a gander at the Who What Wear's list for products galore. Don't hesitate to reach out to us for more guidance. For delicate hair on leather bags and metallic leathers, lightly spray the surface of the bag from a recommended distance using a silicone leather or suede spray. We are huge fans of Skidmore's Leather Cream.

Skidmores Leather Cream

Skidmore’s Leather Cream is an all-purpose leather care product that cleans, conditions, and protects all types of leather. Regular use will build a degree of waterproofing on the leather. Use on saddles, tack, chaps, shoes & boots, purses, motorcycle leathers, saddlebags, car upholstery, and leather furniture. Source: Skidmores


Suede Care Tips

Collonil My Bags Clean Kit

When it comes to suede, it's important to protect it from water as it can both stain and alter the texture. For persistent stains, consider using a double-sided suede rubber like the Nubuk Box which can be purchased from one of our favorite brands, Colloni which has a perfect cleaning set for our leather and suede bags called My Bags Clean Kit. Remember to avoid using water-based cleaners on suede to keep your handbag looking its best.

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