How to Take Care of Your Bric’s Leather Travel Gear

In a previous entry, we showed you the different types of travel gear materials, and if you read it, you already know leather is a favorite among travelers. Leather luggage and bags are not just travel accessories; they are investments in quality and style.

Leather can enhance your travel experience by giving you a luxurious look and feel, but proper care and maintenance are essential to ensure its longevity and appearance. In this blog, we will tell you everything about how to take care of your leather goods with essential leather care tips.

Unlike synthetic materials, leather is a natural product that requires proper treatment to maintain its suppleness and resilience. That's why taking care of your leather luggage is crucial to extend the life of your travel gear significantly.

Basic Leather Care Tips

Cleaning Your Leather

• Dust and Dirt Removal: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe away dust and dirt from the surface of your leather bag. This step is vital, as accumulated dirt can lead to scratches and damage.
• Spot Cleaning: For stubborn stains, use a damp cloth with a neutral wax or a leather cleaning product. Gently rub the affected area and dry it with a clean cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners like benzene or alcohol-based products, which can strip the leather of its natural oils.

For more information about cleaning your leather bags or luggage, visit our product care page.

Conditioning Leather

• Regular conditioning helps keep the leather's natural oils soft and supple. Use a high-quality leather conditioner specifically designed for your type of leather, and apply it with a soft cloth in circular motions. This practice helps prevent cracking and dryness, especially in dry or cold climates.

Damage Prevention

• Water and Moisture: Leather is sensitive to water; therefore, it's essential to protect your luggage from moisture. If your bag gets wet, gently blot it with a clean, dry cloth and allow it to air dry away from direct heat sources. Consider using a leather waterproofing spray to provide an additional layer of protection against moisture.
• Avoid Scratches: Keep your leather luggage away from sharp objects and rough surfaces. When placing your bag down, ensure it is on a soft surface to prevent scuffs and scratches. Using a protective cover can also shield your leather luggage from accidental damage.

Best Practices for Handling and Use Leather Bags and Luggage

• Use Proper Lifting Techniques: When lifting your luggage, use both hands and avoid dragging it across surfaces. This technique minimizes wear and tear.
• Travel Light: Overloading your leather bag can cause it to lose its shape and structure. Pack only what you need and distribute weight evenly to prevent stress on the seams.

Storing Leather Travel Gear

Proper storage is key to maintaining the quality of your leather luggage. Keep these recommendations in mind when not using your leather bags and luggage:

• Cool, Dry Place: Store your leather items in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight and heat sources, as excessive heat can cause the leather to dry out and crack.
• Use Dust Covers: Invest in protective covers for your leather bags when storing them. This protection keeps dust and debris away while allowing the leather to breathe.

Maintaining the Shape of Your Leather Items

To prevent your leather luggage and bags from losing its shape, consider the following:

• Use Stuffing: When storing your leather bags, consider using soft fabric or bubble wrap to maintain their shape. This technique prevents creases and sagging over time.
• Regular Use: Occasionally using your leather items helps them retain their form. It also allows you to spot any necessary maintenance before issues become more significant.

Repair and Restoration

Even with the best care, accidents can happen. If your leather bag does sustain damage, it's essential to address it promptly:

• Minor Scratches: To restore the finish on small scratches, you can use a leather repair kit or a specialized leather balm.
• Professional Help: If your leather luggage has significant damage or deep scratches, consider seeking professional repair services. Bric's has authorized repair locations across the U.S. that can help restore it to its original beauty.

Caring for your leather luggage is crucial in maintaining its beauty and functionality. By following these tips and best practices, you can ensure that your Bric's leather products remain in excellent condition for years.

If you want to explore leather options for your travel gear, check out our Life Pelle Collection. Made with fine, vegetable tanned, Tuscan leather, these bags will give you that luxury touch you want.

For leather accents, we recommend our iconic Bellagio 3.0 collection made from polycarbonate and leather trim; Gondola, exclusively designed and made in Italy using genuine leather; and My Safari & Life, exclusive collections crafted with Tuscan Cognac leather touches.

Remember, investing in high-quality leather luggage is not just about style; it's about creating lasting memories while traveling confidently.