Designer bags are investments that require proper storage and care to maintain their beauty and value over time. Improper storage can lead to damage from light, humidity, dust, or insects that can degrade leather, fabrics, hardware, and other bag materials. Follow these tips to keep your designer bags in pristine condition for years to come.
Should I keep designer bags in their dust bags?
Yes, you should store designer bags in their original dust bags when not in use. Dust bags are soft, breathable bags made from cotton or flannel that protect your bag from dust, dirt, and abrasions from rubbing against other surfaces. Dust bags also help prevent fading from light exposure. Place each bag neatly inside its dust bag before storing.
What temperature and humidity are best for storing designer bags?
Store designer bags in a cool, dry place with a consistent temperature between 60-68°F and relative humidity of 45-55%. Avoid temperature and humidity extremes which can crack leather and warp or discolor other materials. Attics, basements, and garages are often too hot, cold, humid, or damp for proper bag storage.
Should designer bags be stored in their boxes?
Only store designer bags in their original boxes for very short periods between uses. Boxes trap moisture and can promote mold, mildew, and leather drying. If storing a bag longer than a few weeks, remove it from the box and place it in its dust bag inside a closet or other dark, temperature-controlled storage area.
How should designer bags be positioned when stored?
Bags should be stored upright to retain their structure, never stacked or crushed. Avoid folding or bending delicate leather or materials that can crack or wrinkle. Use acid-free tissue paper to lightly stuff and shape bags so interiors stay smooth and edges keep their shape.
Should I use bag organizers or inserts while storing designer bags?
Yes, bag organizers and inserts can be very helpful when storing designer bags long term:
- Felt bag inserts molded into a bag’s shape preserve structure and prevent sagging.
- Acid-free tissue paper absorbs moisture and retains shape.
- Tarnish-preventing cloth bags protect hardware.
- Microsuede, buckram cloth, or acrylic inserts help structured bags hold their shape.
Should I store designer bags hanging or folded/stuffed?
For the best preservation of shape and materials, store leather and structured bags stuffed and lying flat. Hang delicate chain straps to prevent stretching. Soft, collapsible bags like clutches can be safely hung on wide, padded hangers. Avoid wire hangers which can dent leather and distort bag shape.
How should I position bag hardware when storing designer bags?
Properly position all hardware before storing a designer bag:
- Close all buckles, turn locks, and zippers.
- Attach any removable straps and tie ribbons.
- Pad and stuff interiors so hardware pokes outward rather than pressing into bag.
- Keep metal parts separate with acid-free tissue to prevent scratches.
Should designer bags be stored in plastic bags?
Never use plastic bags for long-term designer bag storage, as they trap moisture and can promote mold, mildew, and bacteria growth. If using a plastic bag for temporary moisture protection, make sure the bag is unsealed and use only for very short periods.
How can I protect bag handles and straps when storing designer bags?
To prevent stretching and damage, support and shape delicate handles and straps:
- Pad chain straps with acid-free tissue paper.
- Wrap leather handles with microsuede or felt wraps.
- Hang bags by wider straps or protective handles only.
- Store detachable straps sealed in acid-free tissue inside the bag.
Should I store designer bags elevated off the floor?
Yes, keep designer bags on shelves or in protective stackable trays elevated off the floor. Floors can transfer moisture, harbor insects, and make bags more vulnerable to accidental kicks or spills. An entryway table or dedicated bag closet with shelving creates ideal storage.
Will sunlight damage designer bags in storage?
Direct sunlight can severely damage and fade designer bag materials very quickly. Always store bags away from windows and light sources in a dark closet or covered storage area. If space is limited, cover bags with opaque dust covers for extra protection.
Do designer bags need maintenance while in storage?
To extend the life of your investment, stored designer bags need regular care. Every 3-6 months, do a maintenance check:
- Inspect for pests, mold, or mildew and treat any issues immediately.
- Check hardware for tarnish and clean as needed.
- Stuff with new acid-free tissue to retain shape.
- Treat leather conditioning products if needed.
- Check dust bags for holes and replace if needed.
How often should I rotate the position of stored designer bags?
Rotate your stored designer bags every 3-6 months to maintain even shape and condition. Handbags are under constant subtle pressure from their own weight when sitting upright on a shelf or in a stack. Rotating their positioning prevents permanent slouching or sagging in the same spots.
Should I have designer bags professionally cleaned before storing?
It’s a good idea to have designer bags professionally cleaned and treated before long-term storage. A delicate fabric or leather bag that appears pristine may harbor unseen dirt or oils that can degrade materials over time in storage.
Can I store designer bags in garment bags?
Large breathable garment bags can work well for storing and protecting several designer bags at once. Avoid plastic garment bags—bags require air circulation. Choose a fabric garment bag labeled as acid-free and wash gently before use. Layer individual dust bags inside for added protection.
Do furs or leather linings require special care when storing designer bags?
Fur and leather linings need added protection against insects who may be attracted to natural materials. Take extra precautions:
- Have furs professionally cleaned before storing.
- Add cedar blocks or sachets as a gentle insect repellent.
- Inspect for pests frequently during storage maintenance checks.
Should stored bags be covered with a drop cloth?
A lightweight acid-free drop cloth adds an extra dust barrier when bags are stored in open shelves or stacked. Avoid plastic drop cloths that do not allow airflow. Ensure fabrics do not press into bag shapes or touch hardware.
What is the ideal storage setup for designer bags at home?
The ideal in-home storage setup combines these elements:
- Cool, dry closet or shelved area away from direct light.
- Each bag in its dust bag and original box if lined with acid-free tissue.
- Bags upright and evenly stuffed to hold shape.
- No overcrowding, all hardware properly positioned.
- Careful periodic maintenance and cleaning.
Should designer bags be stored in sealed airtight containers?
Never use completely airtight containers like vacuum storage bags or sealed plastic bins to store designer bags. Fabrics and leather need steady airflow to prevent mold, bacteria, and deterioration. Opt for closets, shelves, stackable trays, or fabric wardrobes instead.
Where should I avoid storing designer handbags at home?
These common home storage spaces often have conditions unsuitable for designer bags:
- Attics: Temperature extremes and poor ventilation.
- Basements: Excess moisture promotes mold.
- Garages: Dust and insects from the outdoors.
- Kitchens: Food oils and humidity risk damage.
- Laundry rooms: Excess moisture.
Should designer bags be stored empty or filled with items?
For structure preservation, bags are best stored empty or lightly stuffed with acid-free tissue paper. Avoid storing bags weighted down with regular items which can distort shape from constant pressure in the same spots.
How can I find quality acid-free tissue for stuffing stored designer bags?
See if your bag brand sells its own acid-free storage tissue, or look for archival-quality, acid-free tissue from museum supply retailers. Make sure paper is lightweight, buffered, and unbleached. Test a small area first since dyed paper could potentially rub off.
Conclusion
Protecting your investment in timeless designer handbags requires proper storage methods that preserve the beauty and value of delicate materials. By keeping bags in breathable dust bags in a climate-controlled, dark space elevated off the floor, maintaining cleanliness and structure with interior stuffing, and periodically airing, inspecting, and rotating their position, your collection will stay pristine for many years of enjoyment.
