Top Reasons Why Handbags Peel and Get Damaged

Top Reasons Why Handbags Peel and Get Damaged

Bags are a must-have accessory. You can't move around with your daily necessities if you don't have them. And if you like leather bags, whether bonded or genuine leather, you'll want to know how to keep them from peeling.

They'll make sure you receive your money's worth and that you don't walk around with a flaky or peeled handbag. Now, let’s see just why handbags peel and how to prevent it from doing that.

Why Does Leather Peel?

When properly cared for, fine leather can last for decades, age gracefully, and develop a patina. Because real leather is animal skin, it must be kept and moisturized; otherwise, it will crack and peel as it dries out.

You should apply a proper cleanser and/or conditioner on a regular basis to keep leather moisturized; you should also keep an eye on the surrounding humidity levels, as too low a humidity level can cause the leather to lose moisture and become brittle.

The finish or sealer on the surface, rather than the leather itself, is the most common cause of cracking. Using the wrong cleaning products, such as those containing solvents and chemicals, might cause the leather to peel off. Even baby wipes can harm leather because the chemicals in them break down and rub the top coat off, so they're not safe for babies but not for leather.

Poor-quality leather, particularly bonded leather, is more likely to split and peel. Under normal circumstances and with proper care, high-quality leather should never peel. There is however still a possibility to this.

Though it’s not like you can just switch out leather bags from your wardrobe as they are:

They are Stylish

Leather bags are a must-have for any fashionista's outfit. They add sophistication to your style, whether they're in the form of briefcases, backpacks, or handbags.

They are Durable

Genuine leather bags and shoes are long-lasting. This is common knowledge. You can use them on a daily basis without fear of losing their shape.

They are Waterproof

If your bag is made of leather, you won't have to worry if it rains and you don't have a dry location to put it. This is due to the fact that leather is a naturally waterproof substance. Even if it rains heavily, you may rest assured that your valuables will not be harmed.

You Get Value for Your Money

You can get a decent price if you decide to sell your bag as a thrift item in the future. So long as you take good care of it and don't let it break or peel. Which is, of course, what we’ll be looking at today.

How to Prevent Leather Peeling

The majority of peeling leather bags are constructed of bonded leather. This is a pulp made from a little amount of shredded and residual leather fibers. They are then coated with a polyurethane coating to give them that gleaming appearance.

Recycled leather is what bonded leather is. Although they are the most likely to break, this does not rule out the possibility of real leather bags peeling if not properly cared for.

Always take care of your leather bags if you want them to last a long time. And you can accomplish that by following these guidelines:

Keep Away From Heat

This is one of the most important pieces of advice for keeping leather bags from flaking. Your genuine leather bags may crack and peel as a result of the heat. Make sure the area where you store your baggage is well-ventilated. This will ensure that they are safe and long-lasting.

Keep in a Dust Bag

Place your luggage in a dust bag when not in use. Dust bags, as the name suggests, are used to keep dust from getting into your bags. They also keep color transfer and excess moisture at bay.

An old pillowcase will suffice if you don't have a dust bag. However, don't make the mistake of storing your purses in a nylon bag. Nylons aren't breathable, so you're putting the bag in the heat, which causes it to peel.

Put Old Newspapers in Them When Not in Use

When you're not using your bag, don't lay it flat. They may lose shape as a result of this. Stuff them with old newspapers or old garments instead. They provide the impression that the bag is full and keep its shape.

Liquid and Oil Shouldn’t Pour into Your Bag

If your luggage contains oil or any other liquid, make sure it is properly sealed. Put any liquid in a Ziploc bag before putting it in your bag for extra protection. This way, your bag will be safe even if it spills.

Use a Leather Cleaner

Use a leather cleaning to protect the surface of your bag. This will keep them looking fresh on a regular basis. However, you should only do this every two months and clean them with a moist towel every other day.

Because bonded leather bags aren't genuine leather, they will eventually peel no matter how well you care for them. However, following these guidelines will ensure that they live a long life. Instead, you'll use them to make a fill before they start to crack.

Furthermore, if you're carrying a genuine leather bag and find it's peeling, take a moment to relax. It may or may not peel in most cases. It's possible that the bag is simply losing its color. This can be remedied by re-dyeing the bag.

Things to Keep in Mind If You Have a Genuine Leather Bag At Home

If you’re someone who likes leather bags and or is thinking of buying one then here a few more things to keep in mind.

Does real leather flake?

Genuine leather does not flake or peel. Peeling is typically an indication of a delaminating polyurethane (PU) coating on bi-cast, bonded, or faux leather. While it might be a damaged finish or after-market paint (see here for an example), peeling is more often a sign of a delaminating polyurethane (PU) coating on bi-cast, bonded, or imitation leather.

Does all faux leather peel?

Faux leather is quite robust and will last for a long time. Genuine leather would be marred by scratches and scuffs, but this material can survive them. It does not crack or peel as leather does. Because synthetic leather does not absorb moisture as genuine leather does, it will not become distorted or broken.

Can you fix the already peeling leather?

With the correct tools, you can mend peeling leather. When leather peels, the polish and/or color are usually the first to flake off. Scrape out the loose parts and add new coats of color and finish to the peeling leather.

What is the difference between leather and faux leather?

Genuine leather is created from animal hides such as cows, buffalo, or oxen, which is the primary distinction between the two. Faux leather is produced from a plastic basis that is then colored and textured with wax, dye, or polyurethane.

What’s the best way to clean a leather handbag?

If everything appears to be in order, use the leather cleaner to remove any stains or particularly unclean areas. Gently rub the cleaner into the leather with the cloth. Dish soap, laundry detergent, or any other type of home soap should not be used. To remove the leather cleaner, soak the cloth in water and wipe it off.

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