How to Clean a Leather Purse or Handbag

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

Jason Markk Ready-To-Use Foam Cleaner bottle

Ready-To-Use Foam Cleaner

Pre-mixed foam cleaner, ready to use the moment you need it.

Shop now Ready-To-Use Foam Cleaner
Jason Markk Delicates Cleaning Brush with walnut handle

Delicates Cleaning Brush

Soft hog hair bristles made for handbags and premium leather.

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Three Jason Markk Premium Microfiber Towels

Premium Microfiber Towels 3-Pack

Soft, absorbent towels that pick up dirt for a lint-free finish.

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Jason Markk Premium Leather Balm tin

Premium Leather Balm

Conditions leather to keep it supple. Made for handbags, wallets and belts.

Shop now Premium Leather Balm

Got a suede or nubuck bag? Skip the balm and see our suede cleaning guide instead.

Jason Markk Quick Clean Kit with Ready-To-Use Foam and Delicates brush

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.

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Step by Step

  1. Opening a black and cream Celine Belt Bag before cleaning

    Empty the Bag Video 0:51

    Take everything out and shake out crumbs and dust so you can reach every corner.

  2. Dry brushing the edge of a leather handbag with a soft brush

    Dry Brush Video 0:59

    Brush the dry bag with a soft brush to lift loose dust from the seams, corners and flap.

  3. Pumping Ready-To-Use Foam Cleaner next to a leather handbag

    Add Foam to the Brush Video 1:09

    Pump a small amount of Ready-To-Use Foam Cleaner onto the Delicates brush.

  4. Scrubbing a leather bag flap with foam and a soft 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.

  5. Wiping a cream leather handbag with a white microfiber towel

    Wipe It Clean

    Wipe away the foam and dirt with a microfiber towel, then let the bag air dry.

  6. Opening a tin of Jason Markk Leather Balm in front of a leather handbag

    Apply Leather Balm Video 1:50

    Once the bag is dry, rub a thin layer of Leather Balm over the entire surface.

  7. Rubbing Leather Balm into the black strap of a handbag

    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.

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Keep 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.

Jason Markk Repel Spray bottle

Repel Spray

A breathable barrier that dries clear and protects against liquid and dirt.

Shop now Repel Spray
Jason Markk Quick Wipes 30 Pack box

Quick Wipes 30 Pack

Individually packed wipes for spills and smudges. Not for suede or nubuck.

Shop now Quick Wipes 30 Pack

FAQ

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.

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  1. Dry Brush
  2. Apply Foam
  3. Brush And Wipe Clean
  4. Apply Balm Over Entire Surface
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