A collector has a maintenance and care routine for their designer bags, while other collectors are not so big on that. What about you, though? Are you the former or the latter? Many collectors are so serious that they have separate, designated storage space for these items.
Just as they should, considering the worth of each designer piece. Each designer item is an investment piece, as they say. This existing market is probably why closet franchise opportunities can boom.
When you store your designer bags the right way, you’re not just taking care of your investment. You’re maximizing their resell value too. The best storage conditions and practices keep your collection in good shape. To help you get on the right side of things, here are the dos and don’ts when storing designer bags.
Clean Thoroughly Before Storing
Clean it from the inside out. Empty its contents, from pockets to hidden corners, especially from dust. Clean it from hair strands and fibers with a lint roller. After taking care of the inside, it’s time to head to the exterior. Avoid using a hard brush or rough cloth on the leather or material, no matter how sturdy it seems.
With a damp microfiber cloth or paper towel, wipe the exterior. Be sure to get the crevices too. If the material is made of another material such as suede, wipe it with a dry cloth. For better cleaning instructions for special materials, be sure to ask a professional.
Stuff the Interior of a Bag
There’s a reason why some bags deteriorate when not used often. When in storage, they can lose their shape and ironically end up looking worn out. Stuffing your bag with bubble wrap or tissue paper helps it retain its shape when not in use. Additionally, store your designer bag in the drawstring bag, dust bag, or storage it came with. This will protect its buckles and zippers from dust.
Keep Away from Direct Sunlight
Other than the storage method of bags, their immediate environment matters too. A dim or low-light, cool, and dry place is the most ideal for bags. Avoid putting them where they might get direct sunlight. The UV rays can cause cracking, fading, discoloration, and color damage. The same can be said for harsh artificial lighting too.
Give Your Bags Ample Space
Most dust bags are on the loose end for good reason. They mustn’t warp while stored. When storing bags, they should be in an upright position, not be touching each other. There should be space between them so that there will be no imprint or marks on their exterior.
Don’t Hang Them
It’s no crime to use hooks as a space saver, but if they’re up for you to store your designer bags, then that’s a no-no. This causes stress to the handles and distorts their shape. In other words, it’d be destroying a perfectly fine and in good condition designer bag.
Don’t Overstuff Your Bags
Is there such a thing as overstuffing? Yes! Again, if not stuffing your bag compromises its integrity, stuffing too much inside does just about the same. It stretches the bag, affecting its original form.
Don’t Clean With a Lot of Water
Unless your goal is to destroy and drown your designer piece, a damp cloth will do. Putting too much water on the material or completely washing it can cause discoloration and bleeding. The method of cleaning ultimately depends on the material.
Don’t Shy Away From Spending in Maintenance Products
Some materials such as leather need a little upkeep to keep looking as good as they do. Besides knowing how to remove stains and other liquids, you should know what to do and use for maintenance. Products like leather cream, leather protectants, or cleaner solutions are among these. As for suede, there are protectants and cleaners products available in the market.
Don’t Put Off Repairs
No matter how small the damage seems, don’t put off the repairs. Minor repairs will always be better than major ones, especially since that means the damage is noticeable and could compromise the bag’s integrity. See your local leather repair service provider or seamstress as soon as possible.
Everything in your wardrobe needs proper care. But considering that designer bags are more than a fashion accessory, they need all the TLC they can get. Collectors often have the intention of collecting and reselling investment pieces. To retain their value, designer bags should be in tip-top condition to be worth the price the demand dictates.
