Maintenance

Care & Maintenance of your leather bag

A leather bag is an investment in style - and therefore deserves care and attention. Our bags are already treated against moisture and dirt, so you can hit the road right away. Nevertheless, leather remains a natural product that lives and reacts to external influences. With a few simple habits you can keep your bag beautiful, supple and full of character for years to come.

1. Cleaning & Refreshing

Make sure dirt does not accumulate:

• Use a soft, dry brush to gently remove visible dirt.
• Wipe the surface with a slightly damp cloth (not wet!) to remove dust and invisible dirt.
• Do not use chemical cleaners - they can damage the leather.

2. Protection from external influences

Leather stays most beautiful if you protect it regularly:

• Treat your bag with a PFAS/PFOS-free leather protection spray suitable for leather.
• Let the bag dry completely before using or storing it again.
• Our favorite: Collonil 1909 link to website

For extra care:

• Apply a colorless leather cream or conditioner once a season.
• Especially suitable for smooth, grained, metallic or printed leather.
• Avoid colored creams - these can stain rather than remedy.

3. Extra care in case of rain or accidents

Still had a shower over your bag? No worries:

• First remove dirt with a dry brush.
• Immediately pat dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
• Fill the bag with paper to keep its shape.
• Let dry in a warm, well-ventilated place - never on the heater or in direct sunlight.

Then you can repeat the above steps (cleaning and protection).

4. What it's better to avoid

To keep your bag in top condition, there are also a few things you'd rather avoid:

• Sun, heat & rain - prolonged exposure can dry out, deform or discolor leather.
• Chemical substances - perfume, sunscreen, makeup, hand gel or pens can cause permanent stains.
• Metal & moisture - prevent buckles or chains from coming into contact with water or perfume to avoid oxidation.
• Overfilling - this causes the bag to lose its shape and overload handles or seams.
• New dark denim - this can stain light bags and is difficult to remove.
• Friction with rough surfaces - Leather is susceptible to abrasion and damage.
• Dark clothing on light bags - beware of color transfer, especially with new or unwashed fabrics.
• Sharp objects or nails - rather open your bag with your fingers to avoid scratches.
• Pets - keep your bag away from curious snouts and scratching cats.

5. Zipper maintenance

• Clean zippers regularly with a dry cloth to remove dust.
• Does the zipper feel stiff? Then apply a small amount of zipper grease, or rub a pencil tip (graphite) along the teeth. This will keep the zipper supple.

Note: Never force a stiff zipper - it is more likely to cause damage.

6. Storage

Not using your bag for a while?

• Store her in the dust bag provided.
• Fill the bag with some tissue paper or soft cloths to keep its shape.
• Store in a dry, dark place - not in the sun or near heat.

7. Repair & Warranty

Repair needed?

It can happen. Please email us at support@smaakamsterdam.nl with a brief description of the problem and clear photos. If necessary, we will send your bag to our workshop to repair the quality.

• Repairs are processed monthly.
• The average repair time is about 5 weeks.
• Any costs will be coordinated with you in advance and depend on the type of damage and the date of purchase.

Warranty & manufacturer's defects

Our bags are handmade with care and craftsmanship. Still, things can go wrong. Factory defects - such as loose stitching or a crooked finish - usually become apparent within 2 months of purchase.

In that case, send an email with proof of purchase and clear photos.

Important: Zippers will only be reimbursed under warranty if there is an obvious manufacturing defect, such as a crookedly stitched zipper or a missing tooth. If upon receipt the zipper is found to be out of order, such as a missing tooth or faulty finish, please report it immediately. Wear from normal use, stiffness or other signs of use are not covered by the warranty.

Not covered by warranty

• Regular signs of use
• Scratches or discoloration to the metal hardware, are not covered under warranty
• Damage from overloading or misuse
• Stains from contact with chemical products
• Pet damage
• Intentional damage

With a little care, your bag will remain a stylish and reliable companion for years to come.
❤️ Still have questions? Feel free to contact us!