The Leather Care Checklist
A free, printable checklist for keeping leather bags in good condition. Daily habits take thirty seconds, conditioning happens every two to three months, and seasonal checks take about ten minutes a year. Print it, save it, or share it — no email required.
Every time you use the bag
- Wipe the surface with a soft, dry cloth to lift dust before it settles into the grain.
- Empty pens, bottles and anything that can leak.
- Set the bag down on a clean, dry surface rather than the floor.
Every week
- Empty the bag completely and shake out grit from the seams and corners.
- Check that zips run cleanly and buckles sit flat.
- Wipe the interior lining with a dry cloth.
Every two to three months
- Apply a leather conditioner with a soft cloth in small circles; let it absorb, then buff off the excess.
- Condition a little more often in dry heat or heavy air-conditioning.
- Avoid kitchen oils — coconut and olive oil can go rancid and darken leather unevenly.
- Wipe brass hardware; use a brass polish on a cloth (kept off the leather) if it has dulled.
When it gets wet
- Blot — do not rub — with a dry cloth.
- Stuff the bag loosely to hold its shape.
- Air-dry at room temperature, away from heaters, hairdryers and direct sun.
- Condition once fully dry to restore suppleness.
Storage
- Stuff loosely with tissue or a soft cloth so the shape holds.
- Use a breathable cotton or muslin dust bag — never sealed plastic.
- Store upright, out of direct sunlight.
- In humid climates, keep silica-gel sachets nearby and let the bag air out periodically.
Seasonal check (twice a year)
- Inspect stitching at stress points where straps meet the body.
- Check that hardware is secure and rivets are tight.
- Deep-condition the leather.
- Rotate bags so no single piece takes all the wear.
What to avoid entirely
- Baby wipes, household cleaners and anything containing alcohol — they strip natural oils.
- Direct heat for drying.
- Sealed plastic storage.
- Overloading past the bag's intended capacity.
Marks, softening and a deepening colour are not damage — that is patina, and it is what separates good leather from cheap leather.
For the full picture on choosing and caring for a bag, read The Complete Guide to Leather Bags or the detailed leather care routine. Every Frounder bag is made from premium leather with solid brass hardware and a free engraved monogram — explore the totes, backpacks and duffels.
You are welcome to print or share this checklist. If it is useful to your readers, a link back to this page is appreciated.