Crumbs, Coins, and Chaos: How to Bring Order Back to Your Handbag and Wallet

Why Cleaning Your Handbag (and Wallet!) Is More Important Than You Think!

Our handbags and wallets are like trusty sidekicks—they go everywhere with us, from the grocery store to a fancy dinner. Along the way, they collect everything from receipts, random coins, and that elusive hair tie you’ve been looking for to crumbs from yesterday’s snack (who knew a handbag could double as a pantry?). But let’s be honest, they also become home to germs, dirt, and sometimes even funky smells. Think about it: your bag rests on the floor at restaurants, your wallet gets passed around, and let’s not forget those makeup or pen explosions that can create mini disasters inside.

Cleaning your handbag and wallet regularly not only keeps them looking fresh but also helps prevent them from turning into breeding grounds for bacteria. From sticky stains to faded leather, giving them some much-needed attention can do wonders. But don’t worry, cleaning these beloved accessories doesn’t have to be a daunting task! Whether you’re dealing with a beloved leather bag or a trusty nylon wallet, we’ve got you covered with tips to get them looking as good as new.

So, grab that rogue snack from the bottom of your bag, and let’s dive into some fun, easy, and effective ways to clean your handbag and purse!

How to Clean the Inside of Your Handbag

1. Empty Out Everything: Start by removing all items from the main compartment and side pockets. Yes, even that half-eaten lolly or the forgotten Hot Wheels Car! Lay out the contents and set aside anything that needs to be sorted or thrown out.

2. Shake It Out: Turn the lining inside out and shake it over a bin to remove crumbs and debris. This helps loosen all the bits and bobs that collect in the corners.

3. Tackle Leftover Dust and Dirt: For any remaining dirt or dust, use a lint roller or vacuum with a fabric attachment to gently clean the lining.

4. Treat Stains: If you’ve got makeup spills or ink stains, grab Figgy Bar Soap. Rub it onto the stain, and work up a lather. Let it sit for 30minutes before rinsing. For stubborn stains, you may need to repeat the process. Using a soft toothbrush can help work the lather into the fabric, but be gentle to avoid damaging the material.

5. Let it Dry: Leave the lining out to air dry for a few hours before putting it back into the bag. Make sure it’s completely dry before adding your belongings.

How to Clean Leather Handbags

1. Prepare Your Cleaner: Mix a small amount of Castile Soap with warm water in a spray bottle. Spray it onto a cloth (never directly onto the bag) to avoid soaking the leather.

2. Wipe Down the Surface: Use the damp cloth to gently wipe the entire surface of the bag. Be sure to test on a small, hidden section first to make sure the leather reacts well to the cleaner.

3. Handle Tough Stains: For tougher spots, lather up Figgy Bar Soap, rub it onto the stain, and rinse away the soap residue with a clean, damp cloth.

4. Moisturize the Leather: Keep your leather bag from drying out by applying a leather conditioner or a DIY mixture of 1 part vinegar to 2 parts linseed or coconut oil. Use a soft, lint-free cloth to rub the conditioner in circular motions across the bag.

5. Dry Naturally: Let the bag air dry naturally in a well-ventilated area, avoiding direct sunlight or heat sources that can warp the leather or cause discoloration.

How to Clean Suede Handbags

1. Brush Off Dirt: Allow any dirt or mud to dry completely, then use a soft-bristled brush to gently remove it. Brush in the direction of the fibers first to loosen the dirt, and then switch to a back-and-forth motion.

2. Spot Treat with Vinegar or Alcohol: For stubborn stains, use Figgy Bar Soap directly onto the stain and let sit for 30 minutes before wiping clean with a damp cloth. Buff the area lightly with the brush afterward to restore the suede texture.

How to Clean Your Wallet

1. Empty the Wallet: Just like your handbag, start by taking everything out—including cards, receipts, and coins.

2. Treat Stains: For any stubborn stains inside or out, rub a little Figgy Bar Soap directly onto the stain and let it sit for 30 minutes. Wipe it clean with a damp cloth afterward.

3. Clean the Interior: Wipe down the inside of the purse using a damp cloth and a bit of castile soap. Make sure to not over-wet it, especially if it’s leather. Leave all compartments open to help them air dry.

4. Dry Properly: Let the wallet sit on a towel and air dry. Avoid any heat sources like a hairdryer, which could damage leather or warp the fabric.

Keep Your Handbag and Wallet Clean and Organised

Weekly Wipe-Downs: Give your bag and wallet a quick once-over with a soft cloth each week to swipe away grime and dust. Got leather? Show it some love with a monthly conditioning to keep it smooth and supple.

Organise Your Belongings: Ever lost your lip balm in a black hole at the bottom of your bag? Time to corral those small items! Makeup bags and pencil cases are your new best mates – not only do they keep everything in one place, but they also stop those dreaded lipstick stains from ruining your handbag’s lining.

Watch Where You Put Them: Avoiding placing them on the floor, especially in public spots like cafés or bathrooms. Instead, opt for a hook or an empty chair—your bag deserves better than the bathroom floor!

Digitise Loyalty Cards: If your purse is bursting with loyalty cards, it’s time to go digital! Apps like Stocard or your phone’s wallet app let you store them all in one place without the bulk. No more digging through a pile of cards at checkout!

Separate Coin Pouch: Coins love to create chaos in your wallet—keep them in check with a dedicated coin pouch. Better yet, ditch the coins altogether and toss the excess into a jar at home. You’ll save space and score a little treat when that jar fills up – perfect for that last minute sausage sizzle at school or mufti day!

Prioritise Essentials: We’re all guilty of hoarding receipts and loyalty cards we barely use. Simplify things by carrying only the essentials. For those loyalty cards you use once in a blue moon? Leave them at home or store them digitally!

How to Store Your Bags When Not in use

• Use a Dust Bag: Store your handbag in a dust bag (or even an old pillowcase) to keep it clean when not in use. This protects it from dust and debris that can accumulate over time.
• Avoid Plastic Bags: Never store leather bags in plastic, as it can trap moisture and lead to mold or mildew.
• Maintain the Shape: Keep your handbag’s shape by stuffing it with acid-free tissue paper, an old t-shirt, or a scarf.
• Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Avoid direct sunlight and extreme temperatures, which can fade or warp the material of both handbags and wallets.

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