A luxury bag, whether it's a Chanel Timeless , a Hermès Birkin , or a vintage bag, is more than just an accessory: it's an investment. To maintain their value and elegance over time, proper care is essential. Here are our tips for caring for your second-hand luxury bags, with a selection of professional products like Saphir and Famaco , the benchmark in leather care.
1. Handle your bag with care every day
- Avoid placing your bag directly on the ground.
- Store your cosmetics in pouches to avoid accidents.
- Alternate carrying your bags to limit premature wear.
- Always keep the dust bags provided by the brand to protect your bags from dust and light.
2. Regular cleaning of leather
Gentle, regular cleaning helps maintain the shine of the leather without damaging it.
- Use a clean, dry microfiber cloth to dust your bag after use.
- For more in-depth maintenance, choose specialized products:
- Saphir Medaille d'Or cleanser or Famaco delicate cream : gently cleanses and nourishes smooth leather.
- Macadamia Saphir Gold Medal Renovator : deeply moisturizes, restoring the natural softness and shine of smooth leather.
Soline Tip : Always apply products with a soft cloth, using circular motions. Test on a small, inconspicuous area first.
3. Hydration and protection of the leather
Leather is a living material: it needs hydration to remain supple and avoid cracking.
- Use a Saphir or Famaco nourishing balm suitable for fine leathers.
- Apply a thin layer every 2 to 3 months, depending on how often you use your bag.
- Protect your bags from splashes with Saphir waterproofer (colorless and suitable for delicate leathers).
4. Maintaining exotic leathers (python, crocodile, ostrich)
Exotic leathers require special attention.
- Avoid humidity, heat and prolonged exposure to the sun.
- Choose specific products like Saphir Reptile to clean and nourish these precious leathers.
5. Store your luxury bags properly
- Stuff your bags with tissue paper (never plastic or newspaper) to maintain their shape.
- Store them upright, away from direct light in their box if possible.
- Avoid spaces that are too humid or too dry.
6. When should you entrust your bag to a professional?
If your Chanel bag has:
- stubborn tasks,
- dried out or discolored leather,
- very worn corners,
It is best to entrust it to a workshop specializing in the restoration of luxury bags . This helps preserve its authenticity and resale value. For a reliable address, contact us .
Prevention tips
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Store sharp objects (keys, files, pens) or products that may leak in separate pockets to avoid scratches and marks inside your bag.
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Avoid placing your bag on the floor: it could come into contact with dirt, shards of glass, or liquids. Instead, use a portable bag holder that allows you to securely hang it from a table or chair.
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Don't overload your Hermès bag and limit the amount of heavy items you carry. This will protect the handles and shape of the bag.
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Protect your bag from rain: Water can leave stains that are difficult to treat and require professional restoration. If spilled, dry immediately with a soft, lint-free cloth.
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DON'Ts
- Avoid greasy, alcohol-based or perfume-based products.
- Avoid scratches, especially on very smooth leathers like Box or Swift.
