To clean a leather purse or handbag, empty it, dry brush off loose dust, then scrub gently with Ready-To-Use Foam Cleaner on a soft Delicates brush and wipe it down with a microfiber towel. Once it's dry, work a thin layer of Leather Balm into the leather to condition it. Watch us clean and condition a Celine Belt Bag in the video.
What You'll Need
Ready-To-Use Foam Cleaner
Pre-mixed foam cleaner, ready to use the moment you need it.
Shop now Ready-To-Use Foam Cleaner
Delicates Cleaning Brush
Soft hog hair bristles made for handbags and premium leather.
Shop now Delicates Cleaning Brush
Premium Microfiber Towels 3-Pack
Soft, absorbent towels that pick up dirt for a lint-free finish.
Shop now Premium Microfiber Towels 3-Pack
Premium Leather Balm
Conditions leather to keep it supple. Made for handbags, wallets and belts.
Shop now Premium Leather BalmGot a suede or nubuck bag? Skip the balm and see our suede cleaning guide instead.

Kit option
Foam and a Soft Brush in One Box
The Quick Clean Kit pairs Ready-To-Use Foam Cleaner with the soft Delicates Cleaning Brush, the same cleaning duo we use on the bag in the video. Add Leather Balm to finish.
Shop the Quick Clean KitStep by Step
-
Empty the Bag Video 0:51
Take everything out and shake out crumbs and dust so you can reach every corner.
-
Dry Brush Video 0:59
Brush the dry bag with a soft brush to lift loose dust from the seams, corners and flap.
-
Add Foam to the Brush Video 1:09
Pump a small amount of Ready-To-Use Foam Cleaner onto the Delicates brush.
-
Scrub Gently in Small Circles
Work one panel at a time with light pressure and let the foam lift the dirt. Keep the leather damp, not soaked.
-
Wipe It Clean
Wipe away the foam and dirt with a microfiber towel, then let the bag air dry.
-
Apply Leather Balm Video 1:50
Once the bag is dry, rub a thin layer of Leather Balm over the entire surface.
-
Finish the Straps and Handles
Work balm into the strap and handles, where hands touch most, then buff off any extra with a clean towel.
Ready to Clean? Get the Quick Clean Kit
Foam cleaner plus a soft brush, ready whenever your bag needs it.
Shop the Quick Clean KitKeep It Clean
Once your bag is clean and dry, Repel adds a breathable barrier that protects against liquid and dirt (it isn't recommended for unsealed or vegetable-tanned leather). Quick Wipes handle fresh smudges on leather when you're out.
Repel Spray
A breathable barrier that dries clear and protects against liquid and dirt.
Shop now Repel Spray
Quick Wipes 30 Pack
Individually packed wipes for spills and smudges. Not for suede or nubuck.
Shop now Quick Wipes 30 PackFAQ
What Is the Best Way to Clean a Leather Purse?
Empty it, dry brush off loose dust, scrub gently with Ready-To-Use Foam Cleaner on a soft Delicates brush, wipe it with a microfiber towel and let it air dry. Then condition it with a thin layer of Leather Balm.
What Leather Cleaner Should I Use on a Bag?
Use a gentle foam cleaner with a soft brush. Our Quick Clean Kit pairs Ready-To-Use Foam Cleaner with the Delicates Cleaning Brush, which is made for handbags and premium leather.
Can I Wash a Leather Purse With Water or in the Washing Machine?
Don't soak it or put it in the washing machine. Clean it with a damp foam scrub, wipe it down and let it air dry.
How Do I Clean a White Leather Purse?
Use the same steps with light pressure and a clean white microfiber towel so you can see the dirt lift. Test Leather Balm on a hidden spot first, since it may darken the leather.
How Often Should I Condition a Leather Bag?
Apply Leather Balm every few months or as needed to keep the leather supple, especially on waxed and oiled leather.
Can I Use Leather Balm on a Suede or Nubuck Bag?
No. Leather Balm is not suitable for suede or nubuck. Use a suede brush and eraser instead, like in our suede cleaning guide.