Couture handbags are an important fashion accessory for women across the globe. They can be purchased in every conceivable size, color and style and one can be found to suit even the most unique personal tastes. To keep them looking their best--and to extend the bag's overall lifetime--couture handbags should be carefully cleaned regularly.
Aspects
Couture handbags are high-quality handbags specially produced by designer clothing and accessory manufacturers. The handbags commonly feature the designer's label prominently on the bag's front surface, as well as distinctive symbols, designs, clasps or features that can be identified with its specific maker. Couture handbags tend to be much more expensive than non-designer bags and often feature superior styling and construction.
Cleaning Options
There are two main cleaning options for couture handbags: professional cleaning or home cleaning. Most fashion professionals strongly recommend that all high-end handbags be cleaned by experienced cleaners since the leather, suede and fabrics used in the bag's construction can be often difficult to clean effectively without inadvertently causing stains or damaging the bag's surface. Professional cleaners can apply waterproofing fluids to the handbag's surface and restore its original luster.
Methods
If you would like to attempt to clean a couture handbag at home, be careful to use the appropriate cleansing agents for the bag's surface and avoid all harsh soaps or detergents and abrasive scrubbing pads. Use specialized leather cleansing fluid for leather handbags. Suede cleaner should be the only fluid used on suede purses. For purses with a vinyl or plastic outside surface, use a soft, dampened cloth.
Prevention
The best way to keep couture handbags clean is to prevent them from becoming soiled or stained in the first place. Avoid touching the bag after using skin products, lotions or makeup and when your hands are grimy or stained, especially if your hands or fingers are discolored with ink. Protect the inner lining of the handbag by never placing food items or ink-covered papers, like newsprint or photocopies, in the bag.
Storage
Couture handbags are best stored in an elevated portion of a closet, covered in a clean cotton pillowcase. If the handbag came with a dust cover, put the bag into the dust cover after every use. Be careful to remove any items that may melt or leak--lipstick, mascara, ink pens--before storing the bag for any length of time.
