Can you wash a leatherette bag in a washing machine?

Faux leather handbags are very common. They're much cheaper than their genuine counterparts, yet look just as stylish and elegant. Furthermore, these clutches are less demanding and less fussy. Let's find out whether it's safe to machine wash a faux leather bag and whether this method will damage the item.

Will the washing machine ruin the bag?

Before you throw your favorite handbag into a machine, be sure to assess all the risks. Many manufacturers prohibit washing faux leather products in the washing machine. The reticule may not withstand intensive rinsing in the drum, lose its shape, crack or tear.

It is best to clean a leatherette handbag by hand.

Much depends on the material the garment is made of. If it's high-quality faux leather, you can risk washing it in the machine on the shortest, gentle cycle.

Be sure to use gel detergents when washing. Regular laundry detergent granules are harmful to the material, causing the leather to peel or wrinkle. If you decide to wash your faux leather handbag at your own risk, consider the following recommendations:

• make sure that the water temperature does not exceed 30°C;
• Choose a delicate or hand wash cycle. It's important that the cycle last no more than 30-40 minutes;
• Turn off the automatic spin function.

If the machine spins the bag at high speed, the bag will definitely lose its shape, and the leatherette is likely to crack. That's why it's so important to remember to turn this setting off.

Standard cleaning

If you clean your handbag regularly, you won't need to machine wash it. Simply wipe the inside and outside of the bag periodically with a sponge dampened with soapy water. It's important not to press too hard on the material, as this can damage it.

Safe folk remedies are also acceptable. For example, an alcohol solution can help remove stubborn, old stains and neutralize unpleasant odors from linings. To do this, add a spoonful of alcohol to water, dampen a sponge, and wipe it over the lining.

You can also simply turn the lining inside out and wash it under the tap using regular laundry soap. Afterward, dry the fabric and tuck it back in. To keep your bag smelling nice, you can place a handful of coffee beans inside overnight.

When cleaning the leatherette itself, it's best not to use ammonia, solvents, or other harsh substances. They can permanently damage the material. Instead, make a soapy solution: dilute a small amount of delicate laundry detergent or shampoo in water and mix well. This will remove most stains from the bag without damaging its surface.

Stubborn stains from artificial leather can be removed using special sprays.

These products are sold in leather goods stores and shoe departments. They are specifically designed to remove stains from faux leather. Use them strictly according to the instructions.

Cleaning suede products

Suede handbags are just as popular as faux leather handbags. They're a staple in almost every fashionista's wardrobe. Suede must be cleaned using dry methods; prolonged contact with water is harmful to the material. It is permissible to remove dirt using:

• Steam treatment. Boil a pot of water and hold the bag over the steam for about 10 minutes. The bag will soften, and you can brush off any dirt with a special brush;
• Eraser. Rub the shiny areas with a clean eraser. Then the handbag will look like new;
• Vinegar solution. Add a spoonful of vinegar to 0.5 liters of water and apply it to dirty or shiny areas of the suede;
• soap solution. Simply dilute the laundry detergent in cool water, dampen a flannel cloth, and gently wipe the outside and inside of the bag.

If you own a suede handbag, it's best to invest in a special brush with one wire side and one rubber side. This tool will help remove dust and dirt from the nap. You can also buy a suede cleaning foam.

Sports product

Homeowners often have questions about caring for their sports bags. Unlike suede or leatherette handbags, they are machine washable. The procedure is as follows:

• Prepare your purse – shake out any small debris, empty your pockets;
• Place the item in a special laundry bag. If you don't have one, use a regular pillowcase;
• Load the bag into the drum. Throw a couple of items in with it to create counterweight;
• pour liquid detergent into the powder dispenser;
• select a delicate or manual mode, lasting no more than 45 minutes;
• start the cycle.

Washing instructions for bags depend on the material they're made from. Therefore, be sure to read the care instructions on the bag's label. By following these tips, you can preserve your favorite item for a long time.

   

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