What is the best way to store my handbag?

After your purchase of a new handbag, you might have the tempation to lose the box, throw out the tissue paper and lose the receipt. But it is important to keep all of these items together if you want the best resell value. Condition issues and missing items can make it difficult to sell your beloved bag once the time is right. However, it is relatively simple to keep a handbag looking good for many years to come, as outlined below by Rachel Koffsky Parker, Christie’s International Head, Handbags and Accessories.

After using your handbag, the first step is to empty it of its contents and dust. You can turn the bag inside out if it is soft, and use a lint roller to get to those hard-to-reach places. If your bag is crafted from hard-pressed, grained leather, wipe the exterior of the bag softly with a damp paper towel or an alcohol-free baby wipe. If it is made from natural or untreated leather, or if it is exotic or suede, then dust it with a dry paper towel. For more serious issues, take it to a professional.

Now that your bag is empty and clean, you must stuff it in order for it to keep its shape. I suggest using acid-free tissue paper, a small pillow, or bubble wrap. Be sure to wrap exposed hardware (including buckles and zipper pulls) with a piece of tissue paper to keep it from making imprints on your bag over time.

Place your bag in a soft, breathable dust bag. If you don’t have one, you can use a cotton pillowcase in a neutral colour, in order to prevent colour transfer. Make sure that the dust bag is large enough so that your handbag doesn’t warp while it is stored.

Do not have the hardware of one bag touching another bag, because it could leave a mark. In addition, do not leave anything touching patent leather — it will cause colour to transfer from the patent leather to whatever is next to it.

Refrain from hanging your bags — this will distort the shape of the handles.

If you have it, store your bag in its original box. Otherwise, line your bags up on a shelf in your closet. If the shelf is not tall enough, do not allow the handles of the bag to be pressed down — in this event, the bag should lie flat. You can keep track of your bags by including a note with the name of the bag on the box or dust bag, so that you don’t have to rifle through 10 boxes before you find your Etoupe 35.

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Frequently asked questions

How do you keep a handbag from losing its shape?

Stuffing a handbag can help it maintain its shape — various items can be used to do this, including acid-free tissue paper, a small pillow or bubble wrap.

Can hanging a handbag damage it?

It's useful to avoid hanging a handbag, as this can distort the shape of the handles. Instead, a bag should be stored in its original box, or your bags can be lined up on a shelf in your closet.

How can I prevent mould or mildew when storing a handbag?

Storying a bag in damp environments can lead to mould or mildew — it's best to store your bag in a cool, dry area, and keep it in a soft and breathable dust bag.

How do I clean the inside of a handbag or purse?

The way you clean the inside of your handbag will depend on the material — if your handbag is soft, you can turn it inside out and use a lint roller. For bags crafted from hard-pressed, grained leather, wipe the exterior of the bag softly with a damp paper towel or alcohol-free baby wipe. For exotics, suede or natural or untreated leathers, a bag can be dusted with a dry paper towel. If you are looking for a more serious clean, you can take your bag to a professional.