Your OM bag is meant to be loved. Just like a fine wine, our leather only improves with age. While your bag will grow old gracefully with natural signs of wear, no one ever said a little TLC was off the table. Just in time for spring cleaning, we’re sharing both our tips on extending the life of your bag and tricks for removing even the toughest of stains from your leather.
Pretreat
Inevitably, your new bag will soon meet the grit and grime of everyday life. Whether its the latte you’ll spill or the floor of the restaurant your bag will take a seat on, life can get messy. In preparation, you can pretreat your bag with a stain and rain repellent spray to act as the first line of defense for such moments. Before spraying the entire bag, test the product on a small patch of the leather to avoid any discoloration blunders.
Condition
Can’t wait for that soft buttery texture of worn-in leather? The secret is everyday use! Human touch mixed with the natural oils from our skin is good for your leather, creating a softer worn-in bag. Along with frequent use, a leather conditioner used to nourish and restore shine and softness can help improve the life of your new OM. We recommend the Osgoode Marley Leather Conditioner available on our website. To apply, use a dry cloth and apply a thin coat in small, circular motions. Over time, leather conditioner will help diminish scratches and stains while giving your bag a healthy glow.
Water Stain
Was that a raindrop you just felt? You forgot to read the forecast, and now you’re caught in the rain clutching your OM bag to protect it from the elements. To treat a water stain, let the leather dry naturally as heat from a blow dryer can cause more damage. Stuff your bag with a towel or newspaper to help hold the shape of the bag while drying. Once dry, finish with a coat of leather conditioner to help blur any sign of discoloration.
Grease Stain
Encounter a spill while out to eat? First, wipe the grease off the surface of your bag. Once home, sprinkle cornstarch onto the grease spot and let sit overnight. The cornstarch should help absorb the oil. Brush off the cornstarch the next morning, and repeat if the spot persists.
Ink Stain
Fall victim to a dropped pen while working on a plane, train, or in the car? Mix one part rubbing alcohol with one part lukewarm water. Dip a cotton swab into the mixture and apply to the ink stain using a circular motion. Let dry and finish with leather conditioner to help mask any lingering marks.
Other Stain
Unidentifiable blotch? We’ve got just the thing. Mix one part cream of tartar with one part lemon juice. Apply the mixture and let sit for ten minutes. Wipe off with a damp cloth and finish with a thin coat of leather conditioner for good measure.
Ready to bring a new leather bag into your life? Shop our new arrivals and find yourself a fresh OM for spring.