Hermès and Chanel Bags Maintenance | Ones Vintage
1 | Introduction
2 | Chanel Lambskin Leather
3 | Chanel Caviar Leather
4 | Chanel Tweed
5 | Hermes General Leathers
6 | Hermes Exotic Leather
1｜Introduction
Hermes and Chanel bags are classics in the world of luxury, so proper care is essential. Their bags are truly investment pieces, and with proper care, their lifespan can exceed a lifetime. If you ever decide to resell your bag, maintaining its original condition can help preserve or even increase its value. For both Hermes and Chanel bags, regular maintenance and attention to the usage environment are key to maintain their appearance and value. It is recommended to use maintenance products specifically designed for leather, and avoid products containing solvents, oils, and waxes. Regular use of leather protectants can help prevent liquid stains and dye transfer, while keeping the leather soft and durable. Additionally, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and humid environments to prevent damage to the leather. Avoid using unsuitable products. Regularly clean the surface of the bag to prevent dust and dirt buildup. Also, avoid prolonged exposure to water and high temperatures to prevent affecting the texture and color of the leather.
2 | Chanel Lambskin Leather
The iconic design of the Chanel Classic Flap bag is made with smooth lambskin leather. Lambskin is known for its soft characteristics and is made from the skin of young lambs. It is softer compared to other leathers, and is praised for its delicate appearance, smooth texture, and buttery feel. Lambskin is delicate and requires careful care as it is prone to damage such as scratches, stains, and discoloration. Due to its vulnerability, it is sensitive to water and should be kept dry and not cleaned with water, as excessive moisture can leave watermarks and promote mold growth. Additionally, lambskin is susceptible to color transfer, especially on light-colored leather, which can result in stains from friction with clothing or contact with cosmetics.
Regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of lambskin leather. Waterproofing the bag can enhance its resistance to water, especially against rain. However, not all leather waterproofers are suitable for all types of leather, so it is recommended to use a waterproofing product designed specifically for delicate leather. Choosing a high-quality leather protector for handbags is crucial, and shoe protectors should be avoided! Also, avoid using products containing solvents, oils, and waxes. An effective protector can help prevent liquid stains and dye transfer, making daily cleaning easier as dirt will not penetrate the leather.
3 | Chanel Caviar Leather
Caviar leather is a representation of timeless style and luxury! Just like with other high-end accessories, caring properly for your Chanel caviar leather handbag is key to maintaining its beauty. Chanel's caviar leather is very durable and resistant to scratches. Its textured surface exudes elegance and luxury. Despite its sturdiness, regular maintenance is crucial for preserving the leather's quality and appearance.
Avoid overfilling the bag to prevent unnecessary pressure on it. Arrange items evenly and use a bottom shaper or OnesVintage bag organizer to maintain its shape. When not in use, place your Chanel caviar leather handbag back in its original dust bag, ensuring it is stored in a closet, storage area, or on a shelf away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. For daily cleaning, use a soft dry cloth to wipe away dust or dirt. For removing stains or dirt, gently massage with leather cleaner. Fill the Chanel bag with acid-free tissue paper to support its shape and prevent imprints on the leather, place the chain inside the bag, and fill with padding. It is best to store your Chanel bag in a dust bag and original box, or upright on a shelf with dust bag protection.
4 | Chanel Tweed
Tweed is a type of woven fabric primarily made from wool yarn, often intricately woven with other fabrics such as cotton, silk, lace, and even interesting textured fibers like denim and leather. Chanel's tweed is crafted by some of the world's finest artisans, primarily at the Maison Lesage workshop in Paris, one of the oldest embroidery workshops in the world. Lesage's tweed is almost entirely handwoven, rather than machine-made.
In terms of care, it is recommended to spill blots dry instead of rubbing to reduce friction that may cause damage to the fabric. Additionally, hand wash tweed with mild soap and water, washing in cold water and avoid the use of washing machines. chosen, there may be brass or nickel hardware - ensure that the cleaner used is suitable for the corresponding metal.
5 | Hermes General Leathers
The safest way to protect classic Hermès leathers such as Togo, Epsom, or Swift is to gently wipe the exterior and interior of the bag with a dry, ultra-fine fiber cloth. For stubborn stains, you may consider using a commercial leather cleaner, but do so at your own risk. Hermès offers leather care kits specifically designed for their bags, which can gently clean, moisturize, and protect the leather. Always test in an inconspicuous area first to ensure the leather does not have an adverse reaction to the product. For a thorough cleaning, use a damp sponge to carefully clean the surface of the bag in circular motions, then wipe off any residue on the leather with a soft, ultra-fine fiber cloth. Follow up with a leather conditioner, applying with a sponge or soft cloth, wiping off excess product, and gently buffing.
Use an ultra-fine fiber cloth to remove any loose dirt or dust from the hardware, and use a soft brush to clean hard-to-reach crevices. Always allow your Hermès bag to air dry naturally, away from direct sunlight or heat sources such as radiators or hair dryers. Avoid using oily, alcohol-based, or perfume products to prevent scratching, especially on very smooth leathers like Box or Swift. The maintenance cost for Hermès leather is relatively low.
To protect the quality and lifespan of the leather, it is important to avoid water droplets on the bag and refrain from using it on rainy days. Water can damage the material, leading to stains, discoloration, and even structural damage to the bag. If your bag gets wet, gently pat it dry with a soft cloth and allow it to air dry in a well-ventilated area, away from direct heat sources. Additionally, on rainy days, it is best to opt for another bag or use a protective cover to shield your beloved bag from the elements and maintain its original condition.
6 | Hermes Exotic Leather
Exotic leathers such as crocodile and lizard are among the most precious materials used in Hermès bags. When caring for Hermès bags made from these special leathers, it is advisable to seek expert help, especially for exotic leathers that require proper nourishment to prevent dryness, as lizard scales are prone to cracking. It is recommended to use a dry, non-abrasive ultra-fine fiber cloth to brush the leather, clean dirt from the hardware, and regularly send the bag to professionals for spa treatments. Avoid using oily, alcohol-based, or perfume products, refrain from rubbing against dark, untreated, or embellished clothing, and keep the bag away from water.
We recommend not using your Hermès bag every day, as leather, being an organic material, needs time to rest, breathe, and recover from environmental conditions. It is advised to empty the bag after each use, gently fill it with acid-free tissue paper, a wallet pillow, or bubble wrap to maintain its shape, then store it in a dust bag. Ensure that the top handle is not folded or flattened, wrap the hardware with a non-abrasive cloth or the appropriate dust bag, and avoid using tape to prevent damage to the gold plating. If applicable, remove the shoulder strap and place it inside the bag or in an additional dust bag. If storing the bag in a box, keep the lid open to allow the leather to be exposed to air, or store it upright in a well-ventilated, room temperature, dark environment.
