Have you ever been frustrated that your faux leather handbag starts looking worn out after just a few uses? Don't worry, I’ve got you covered! With a little bit of care, you can keep your handbag looking like new for years to come.
In this blog post, I’m going to share some tips and tricks to help you care for your faux leather handbags. You’ll learn how to clean them, how to store them, and how to prevent damage in the future. Whether you're a seasoned handbag collector or a newcomer to the world of faux leather, I've got some great advice for you!
When dealing with faux leather, there are two things you need to keep in mind. Firstly, it's a non-porous surface, which means most stains will generally sit on the top layer of it. Secondly, whatever you do don't let it become too dry, or it can crack. Faux leathers are made of synthetic material which is then embossed with a leather-like grain and backed with fabric. 
There are different types and qualities of faux leather, including PVC, Polyurethane, and Polyamide microfibre. I tend to prefer Polyurethane as it's easier to care for and better for the environment. Although PU is more breathable than PVC, it's still non-porous, so marks will generally remain on the surface. However, under certain conditions, stains and moisture can penetrate the fabric and make it less durable and of course make it look tired or worn out.
To care for your faux leather, I recommend giving it some regular TLC, including a protective treatment to add a thin layer to the surface, making it easier to clean. Unlike with real leather, a protective treatment won't penetrate or moisturise faux leather. You should avoid using harsh cleaners, as they can cause the PU to dry out and eventually crack or peel and definitely don't use bleach on faux leather, as it can damage the material. Instead, use a little washing-up liquid and warm water with a microfibre cloth.
When using or storing your bag, keep it away from direct sunlight, as too much exposure can be harmful and when not in use you should ideally store your bag in a dust bag! As for stains they can come from just about anywhere with some clothing items, such as denim being a common cause for the of transfer dye onto your bag, so be careful, especially with lighter-coloured faux leather. 
Always use a soft, non-abrasive cloth, preferably microfiber, when cleaning your bag. If you use a cleaning product, be sure to clean any residual product off your bag, as this could damage it over time if not removed.
In summary, show your bag some love regularly with warm soapy water, a non-abrasive cloth, and a suitable protection spray for leather. Your handbag will thank you!
