Tips from designers and manufacturers on how to get the best bag for your buck
Rita Maas
Caring for Your Bag
About once or twice a year, treat your leather bag with a neutral (colorless) shoe polish (such as Meltonian; $2.75, www.shoeshinekit.com) to keep it conditioned.
For repairs and stains, avoid the dry cleaner and shoe repair shop (there’s too high a risk of damage from the wrong machines or tools). Instead, take it to a handbag professional, like Artbag, in New York City (www.artbag.com). People send bags to Artbag from around the country.
Never store a leather handbag in plastic, which can dry the bag out or stick to the leather. Stuff the bag with tissue paper or an old T-shirt to maintain the shape. Place the handbag in the felt bag it came in or a pillowcase and store upright.
