Sometimes, life isn’t all sunshine and roses – rain happens, puddles splash, bottles leak… we’ve all been there. Sometimes our bags just get a bit grubby with general daily wear, and we don’t take the time to give them a bit of TLC. For times like this, we have put together this handy guide to care for your KNOMO bag.
If the inside of your bag needs a clear out…
Step 1 : Begin by emptying all pockets, then open all zippers and clasps, and shake the bag well upside down to remove dirt and trash.
Step 2: Pull the interior of the bag to the outside or turn a fabric bag inside out so you can see the lining. Use a lint roller to capture dust and crumbs. You can also use the fabric brush attachment on a vacuum to tackle the interior.
Step 3: Dip a microfiber cloth in plain water and wring out the excess then wipe down the bag completely.
Step 4: Add a few drops of mild detergent to the water. Use this mixture on a microfiber cloth to rub away heavily soiled areas. Keep moving to a clean spot on the cloth as grime is transferred. Follow up by rinsing the cloth well and wiping away any detergent residue.
Step 5: Allow the bag to air dry in a cool place away from direct sunlight or heat.
Your fabric bag needs a wipe down…
DOs: Most dirt marks can be removed with warm (not hot!) soapy water. Mix a small amount of laundry detergent in a bowl with warm water, then use a clean cloth to wipe the areas that require attention. We recommend wearing rubber gloves so your skin is protected from the detergent. When you’re finished, leave the bag to dry naturally.
DON’Ts: Do not use harsh solvents or cleaning products. Do not expose the bag to oils, acetone or alcohol. Using bleach or ammonia-based cleaners can cause discolouration. Do not machine wash the bags because we cannot guarantee that the colours and shaping of the bag will be the same, and the hardware may chip. If you machine wash your bag it is at your bag’s own risk and we cannot be liable for any damage or changes to your bag.
*Our nylon bags are lovingly sprayed with a water-resistant spray before they leave the factory. The good news is, this is permanent and should not come off when you clean your bag.
If your leather bag needs some lovin’…
DOs: Firstly, wipe away dirt with water and a small amount of mild soap as in the instructions above. Leave to dry naturally. If your bag still has visible marks, we recommend buying a leather care kit. Always test leather cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area of the bag like the bottom beforehand. Use the leather care products with a sponge or soft cloth to prevent damage to the surface of the leather.
DON’Ts: Don’t expose the leather to alcohol, acetone or oil. Do not use bleach or ammonia-based products which can discolour the leather. Make sure not to expose the leather to too much moisture because this will cause damage to the leather. Don’t use a shoe polish. Don’t cover your bag in leather products before testing it. Avoid a quick fix with baby wipes because the alkaline may damage the leather. Do not use wax, silicone or saddle soap to avoid possibilities of damage.
For more leather care tips, read our blog on leather quality and care here
*We use the finest full-grain leathers that are not buffed or tampered with so that they last longer, look more natural and age with grace. Although we do add a water and dirt resistant spray to our leather bags as the finishing touch, please be aware that leather can get scratched and marked, this is normal for a natural material.
How to wax and wipe your canvas bag...
DO's: For your waxed canvas bag, wipe gently with a soft cloth with warm soapy water.
DON'T's: Don't use hot water or this can remove the water-resistant wax coating or affect the natural cotton fabric. Don't wipe too hard or this can remove the wax coating. Do not expose the bag to heat, for example trying to dry it with a hair dryer (we've all been there when we're in a hurry!).
*Over time with cleaning and wear, you may want to reapply the wax coating to your bag. We recommend a tin of Barbour Wax Thornproof Dressing. Put the tin of wax in a container of hot water until it is melted. Apply the wax to your bag with a clean cloth and rub in a circular motion around the bag until it is well-rubbed in (a nice reward for your bag after all its hard work). Leave the bag to dry and be aware that the wax may rub off onto other garments for a few days.
Contact us
If you have any other questions about how to show your KNOMO bag some love, please email help@knomo.com for more advice.
