How to Refurbish Vintage Handbags

Nothing is made to last forever, and that goes extra for handbags.  Unfortunately, when we buy vintage handbags, we buy them as a sort of time capsule, to hold on to (literally) an era long past.  We can't get rid of our vintage handbags as haphazardly as we might toss (or resell) designer, non-vintage handbags that have simply gone out of style (or overstayed their welcome). 

So when time and the elements have done their worst to your favorite vintage handbags, what do you do to preserve what could possibly be an irreplaceable accessory?  Why, refurbish it, of course.

First you'll want to make sure your vintage handbags are even redeemable.  If your vintage handbags are too far gone, it may be more trouble than it's worth to restore them to their former glory.  So check beneath the vintage handbags' exterior for the quality of materials used in its construction, and examine too the quality of the vintage handbags' construction.  If the hardware - such as zippers, snaps, etc. - are busted, if the leather is dried and cracked, if there are gaping holes in the lining, you may be better off bidding your vintage handbags farewell.

If, however, the damage is minimal, then it's time to get to work.

First take a damp cloth to your leather and vinyl vintage handbags that you wish to refurbish (dry cloths otherwise) - not paper towels as they are too flimsy and will keep falling apart on you - and clean off the dirt and grime.  You can use Windex to remove stubborn dirt or Murphy's Oil Soap for greasy spots - provided that you first test them out (water too) on an inconspicuous spot on your vintage handbags so as not to leave unwanted spots and, effectively, ruin your vintage handbags.

If the vintage handbags have debris on the inside, turn them upside down and shake them out.

Next you'll want to deal with the inevitable, and annoying, scuffmarks.  One fantastic product for this is called -Goo Gone', which you can find in any hardware store.

You can then use shoe dye or artist's markers in colors that match your vintage handbags to touch up any areas where the color looks faded and worn. 

Finally, touch up the finish on your leather vintage handbags the same way you would touch up fine shoes.  With mink oil, (or Windex and a little Vaseline for patent leather) followed by a bit of shoe polish your leather vintage handbags can look good as new.  For vinyl vintage handbags, you can use the same products you'd use on the interior of your car.