VAULT 101
How to Clean Your Louis Vuitton Speedy
By The Rebag Team, Nov. 21, 2023
How to Clean Your Louis Vuitton Speedy
Luxury handbags require special care and attention. If you’re uncertain about how to maintain your beloved Speedy bag, whether it’s a monogram canvas, a cherished Yayoi Kusama edition, or a denim iteration, we’ve got you covered. This comprehensive guide offers expert tips and guidance on what to avoid, daily habits to adopt, at home cleaning and storage tips, and more.
Prevention And What To Avoid
To extend the longevity of your Speedy, regardless of its material composition, proper maintenance is key. While natural wear and tear may occur over time, particularly in the case of frequently worn pieces, there are different ways to protect them. For instance, try to avoid overstuffing your bag, as this damages sensitive areas like corners or handles. Too much weight will cause any material to stress over time. Furthermore, prevent your piece from coming in contact with water or harsh chemicals, such as cleaning agents.
Caring For Your Louis Vuitton Speedy At Home
Leather and canvas handbags can accumulate oils and residue. To keep your Speedy in top shape, regular cleaning is essential. It is important to note that some Louis Vuitton styles may have handles and trim made of vachetta leather, which is absorbent and will lead to oxidation or patina. This means they will change in color and appearance over time as they absorb elements from the environment, a desirable feature for those who appreciate the aged and unique look of such leather.
How To Clean Your Louis Vuitton Speedy
It’s best to go from the inside out.
Step 1 – Clean the Inside of Your Bag: Use a suede brush or microfiber cloth to gently brush out any dust or debris. Then, use a lint roller to catch anything you might have missed. Don’t forget to clean any side pockets, Pochettes, or other accessories. If possible, repeat this process every couple of weeks.
Step 2 – Clean the Outside of Your Bag: Use a microfiber cloth to give your purse a quick wipe down. Then, repeat the same process with an unscented baby wipe for a coated canvas bag or a leather wipe for an Epi leather bag. You’ll then want to dry off the tote with a microfiber cloth. If possible, do this once a week.
Note: The parts of your bag that sustain the most wear, such as base corners and handles, should be cleaned after every single wear. Simply repeat step two.
Spot Cleaning
If your Speedy has any stains or marks that do not come off after these steps, you will need to spot treat. How you do this will usually depend on your bag’s material.
Small Fabric Stains
Dab the stain with a microfiber cloth dipped into a gentle laundry stain remover. Avoid cleaners that contain bleach, and never apply the product directly to your bag. For stubborn stains that require a bit more care, try the Tide-To-Go Pen.
Polishing Hardware Tarnish
Use a polishing pen, or apply a liquid polishing solution to a microfiber cloth. Gently buff the hardware to remove the tarnish – you may have to do this a few times depending on its severity. Then, remove any leftover residue with a dry microfiber cloth.
Treating Leather
Most light marks and scratches on leather can be buffed out with a microfiber cloth. Due to the delicate nature of this material, it is not advisable to do anything else.
Treating Patent Leather
Apply leather scuff remover solution with a Q-Tip to remove scuffs or marks, then buff it out with a dry one. Once dry, use a microfiber cloth to remove any leftover residue.
Suede, Pony Hair & Fur
A suede brush is the best tool to dislodge dirt or light stains in these materials. Just lightly brush the material in the same direction it falls on.
Removing Odors & Smells
The Absorbent Bad Air Sponge, and similar products, works wonders for moderate to severe smells. Prop the container open and place it in your bag, preferably facing a fan to allow circulation of air within the interior. Use for 2-3 days at most, then air out your bag on its own. Dryer sheets may also be a good alternative.
If, after all of these steps, you’re not thoroughly satisfied with the state of your handbag, it’s best to bring it to a professional craftsperson for additional repair.
How To Store Your Louis Vuitton Speedy
It is essential to store your luxury bag properly so that it retains its shape while you’re not using it. A good tip is to stuff it with a small pillow or folded scarf so that your purse remains perfectly intact — just don’t overstuff it. Then, if your bag comes with extra accessories, such as removable straps, tuck them into its interior. Lastly, place your Speedy into its dust bag and store it in a cool, dry, and dimly lit place.
