By making sure your handbags are well looked after, you can ensure your handbags’ longevity and enjoy them for years to come. In this handbag storage guide, you’ll learn how best to protect your bags.
Even if you don’t intend for your handbag to become an heirloom, it is important to keep it in great condition if you might ever want to sell it. This is why it is particularly important to keep designer handbags well-stored.
You might be tempted to organise your purse storage by putting your bags on wall hooks. However, this can not only scratch the handles or strap, but also alter the shape of the bag. The recommended storage solution is to store purses on a shelf, preferably within a closet.
For more tips on how to organize purses and for handbag storages ideas, keep reading.
Step 1: Remove Accessories
Certain handbags will include accessories. These should be removed and placed on the inside of the bag (or box, if applicable). Accessories will vary depending on the brand and style. They may also include their own storage containers (boxes, or dust bags).
The reason why you should remove these accessories is so that they don’t scratch the bag or get damaged in storage.
1. Clochette Or Key Chain
A clochette is a bell-shaped leather fob that includes a lock and keys. It should be put in the appropriate dust bag or properly secured in bubble wrap or tissue paper and placed in the interior pocket or main compartment of your bag.
Removable key chains should be stored in the same way.
2. Removable Chains Or Straps
Similarly to the above, removable straps should be detached and put inside the bag. If the strap is either chain or leather and chain, then it is best placed in a dust bag before being put into the bag.
If the strap is more sturdy and doesn't fold very easily, don't force it into the bag. In this case, it is best placed in a dust bag and stored next to the handbag.
Step 2: Keep The Shape
Stuffing your bag will help it retain its original shape while not in use. Over time bags can become misshapen, especially those constructed in heavy leathers or with slouchy silhouettes. There are a few different options for this:
1. Bubble Wrap
Bubble wrap can be folded or rolled and placed in the main compartment of the handbag. This is particularly useful for older, vintage handbags.
2. Tissue Paper
It is best to use plain, acid-free tissue paper, to avoid any chance of bleeding. This can be folded or rolled into a shape that best fits the bag.
3. Shapers
There are specific handbag-shaped ‘pillows’ or ‘shapers’ that are available to use as stuffing. These are ideal for single-compartment handbags, or those that have been precisely measured. Bags come in different shapes and sizes, so if you do use a shaper, make sure it fits perfectly.
4. What To Avoid
Stuff with caution. Over-stuffing can stretch the material, potentially damage the closures or interior, and alter the overall shape of the bag.
Step 3: Protect The Bag’s Details
Chains or straps that can’t be removed can still be protected and properly secured. Leaving them loose can cause damage to the exterior of the bag. Felt protectors that often come with bags aim to guard against clasp and plaque damage.
1. Chains
Wrap in bubble wrap or tissue paper to protect from rubbing against the exterior which can leave indentations and tarnish the bag.
2. Handles
Short or structured handles can be left outside of the bag (either upright or down) depending on the style of the bag.
3. Straps
Longer straps or handles can be tucked inside the bag to keep them protected.
4. Hardware
Certain bags include felt protectors, which can be placed across the front of bags to help protect clasps and plaques.
Step 4: Dust Bag & Box
Most luxury handbags come with a dust bag and/or box. If not, you can buy unbranded versions online. This is probably the most important part of bag storage.
1. Dust Bag
If your handbag has a cloth dust bag, place the bag inside and secure before storing it. Otherwise, purchasing a generic cloth dust bag or using a plain, cotton pillowcase also works. The main goal is to protect the handbag from discoloration, dust, wear, and tear.
2. Box
If your handbag came in a box, it’s safe to assume that it is the perfect fit for your bag. After placing it in a dust bug, store it in the box. Storing in the box will help protect it from damage, such as if it falls off a shelf or is subjected to any impact.
Step 5: Environment
How you store your bag is important, but so is where you store your bag.
1. Room Conditions
You want to make sure that your bags are not stored in a damp or humid environment. This can cause damage to the materials of your bag and even spur the growth of mold.
2. Flat Surface
Make sure to store the bag vertically on a flat surface. This will help to retain the shape.
3. Not Storing Handbags Too Tightly
Make sure there is plenty of space between your handbags. If you have them on a shelf, for example, make sure there is space between each bag. Bags that are stored too closely together risk being squashed.
Buy Designer Bag For Less
Now you know how to look after your bags, you might be thinking about updating your handbag collection. myGemma is your one stop shop for luxury resale: we carry a wide range of handbags from big designer brands, such as Saint Laurent, Gucci, and Chanel.
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Sell Designer Bag Online
If on the other hand, you are looking to sell a designer bag, myGemma offers the full resale experience. Simply fill out the online form to receive your price quote.
How it works: Once you send your items in, with our free, fully insured shipping, you will receive a final price. Accept our final offer and get paid, or we return your items back to you. It's as simple as that. And best of all, there are no hidden fees or commissions deducted from your final offer.
Why sell to myGemma: The entire selling process from start to finish can take as little as 24 hours, making it the quickest way to get paid for your designer accessories! That's because we buy your luxury items directly, no middle-man or selling on your behalf.
