How to care and store PU leather | How to avoid mistakes with creams and waterproof sprays

Daily care starts with a quick check on the condition after each use.

When you put your bag down, first take a look at the handle, shoulder strap, and bottom corner. Is it damp with sweat, sand or dust? You don't need to polish it to a shine every time. All you have to do is find the areas where dirt remains and apply as much as necessary.

The first thing to check is the material and instructions.

Even if it says "synthetic leather," it doesn't mean it's all made of the same resin or finish. Even if the outer material is PU, the handle may be made of a different material, and the lining may be made of cloth. Don't think of the entire bag as one material; check each part you touch.

Even though the bag is the same brown color, the structure is different between genuine leather and PU. By knowing the differences between materials, you will be able to reduce the preconceptions of ``just because it works for genuine leather, it will work for this as well.''

All you need is a soft, clean cloth

If you rub with a cloth that has sand particles on it, you may damage the surface even though you are trying to remove dirt. Use a clean, soft cloth that does not lint or discolor. Separate the dry cloth from the cloth used for products that can be wiped with water to avoid confusion.

1. remove dust

   Do not scrub the surface too hard, just wipe it gently. Do not try to polish it using hard brushes or abrasives.

2. Wipe only the areas where dirt remains according to the instruction manual.

   If possible, wipe gently with a damp cloth. Check the color and shine in an inconspicuous place before proceeding.

3. Dry in the shade without leaving any moisture

   Remove moisture with a dry cloth and dry away from direct sunlight and hot air. It is important not to return it to the bag or shelf while it is still damp.［1］

The cowmono PU bag featured here also has instructions on how to care for it with a soft cloth and how to wipe it off after it gets wet. For specific methods, please prioritize the description of the product you have.［4］

When dirty, identify the condition before proceeding with stronger methods.

The more you like your bag, the more you will be concerned about small stains. However, increasing the removal force does not necessarily improve the finish. With PU leather, it is important not to damage the surface finish along with dirt.

Hand stains and light stains: Use detergent only after you know it can be used.

Just because it doesn't come off with a dry cloth, there's no need to add dish detergent right away. First, check to see if it can be wiped with water, and if a detergent or cleaner is required, check whether it can be used on PU or synthetic leather and the precautions on the bag.

Neutral detergents are also not necessarily safe for all products just because they are neutral. Use in specified concentrations and methods when approved for use.Avoid using ``a few drops of detergent'' without determining the amount of water, as you will not be able to tell the concentration.There are also guided steps for wiping and drying after using detergent.

Oil, ink, denim color: Don't try to remove it

Oil-containing stains and color transfer from ink and dyes may not be removed with just a light wipe. Avoid trying household solvents or nail polish removers, or rubbing the same area over and over again.

Once you use the cleaner and the color or shine changes, stop there. When consulting with a specialty store, it will be easier to explain the situation if you tell them the ingredients label, what is attached, when you noticed it, and what you have already used. Please note that cowmono does not provide repair services.

Stickiness/peeling: This may be due to deterioration of the material rather than dirt.

It is sticky even when wiped, the surface looks like powder, and there is peeling over a wide area. In such cases, I suspect deterioration before continuing with cleaning. Kaken Test Center explains that polyurethane hydrolyzes due to moisture and its strength decreases.［2］

However, scratches and bends can also lead to damage, so it is not possible to determine the cause just by looking at it. It is not possible to restore the deteriorated resin structure with cream, so please do not reapply it thinking that adding nutrients will restore it.

Is a special cream necessary for PU leather? Think about what you want to paint for

There's something uniquely fun about brushing your leather boots, spreading a small amount of cream on them, and watching their expressions. However, there is no need to transfer the procedure directly to the PU bag. Different materials require different handling.

Do not use mink oil intended for genuine leather for moisturizing purposes.

The surface of PU is a layer of resin, so just because it's for genuine leather doesn't mean it's compatible with oil or cream. Rather than applying products you don't know whether they will work or not, continue with basic care that won't leave any dirt or moisture behind.

PU-compatible care products also have different purposes, such as those that remove dirt, those that improve shine, and those that protect surfaces. Make sure the product description matches what you need.There is a difference between something that says "exclusive" and something that must be used every time.

Things to check before using the supplies you already have

• Is it clearly stated that it can be used on PU/synthetic leather?
• Are there any finishes, colors, or materials that are not covered?
• Are there any ingredients or methods prohibited by the precautions on the bag?
• Are there instructions on how much to apply, drying, frequency, etc.?

Even if the conditions are met, check for changes in an inconspicuous place. Rather than deciding how often to use the item, ``how many times a year,'' it is safer to match it to the description of the item and the condition of the bag.

Can I use waterproof spray on PU leather? Don't make a decision based on the ingredient name alone

The answer isIt depends on the finish of the bag and the usage conditions of the spray product.PU leather in general cannot be said to be ``usable.'' Avoid choosing products that say, "If it's fluorine-based, it's okay." It is necessary to make a decision by looking at the formulation, solvent, target material, and usage.

Is it necessary to “repel water” or “not get the contents wet”?

Even if the surface repels water, it does not mean that the entire bag is waterproof, as water can still enter through seams, openings, and zippers. Don't think that just by spraying it on, you can safely touring on rainy days.

On days when you are exposed to rain for a long time, choose a bag that can withstand rain, using a rain cover or a bag that protects the contents. When you want to protect important documents and electronic devices, you should not only rely on the surface of the bag, but also consider protecting the contents.

Don't carry useful numbers directly into other products.

It is important to check these numbers using the container you have, rather than just memorizing them from an article you have read. If you are not sure whether it can be used, contact the equipment manufacturer and tell them the material and surface finish of the bag.

Even if the product is usable, do not neglect the work area and drying.

When using a spray, follow the warning signs on the product and work outdoors, away from other people and fire. Columbus also provides guidance on how to use AMeDAS outdoors.［3］Please do not interpret this as "just because you opened the window, you can stay indoors."

Make sure that the conditions on the bag side and the supplies side match, test it in an inconspicuous place, and then use it at the specified distance and amount. Don't apply multiple coats before it dries or put it away in a bag in a hurry; wait until it dries before you start using it.

Be careful of care that comes to mind, such as using alcohol or hot air.

Do not use disinfectant alcohol to remove stains.

You may find yourself tempted to wipe the handle with the disinfectant wipe you have on hand. However, it cannot be concluded that a small amount is safe. The cowmono PU bag we are introducing this time advises against using alcohol, solvent-based cleaners, or abrasives on the product page.［4］

Other companies' products may have unique chemical resistance and care instructions. Don't apply the same treatment just because of the name PU, and if disinfection is required, check the approved method for the bag.

Rub vigorously, dry quickly with heat, wash thoroughly

Rub it with an abrasive sponge, put it in the dryer, or put it in the washing machine. Do not try these methods without checking the instructions. The process itself can spread the peeling, especially if the surface is damaged.

If it gets wet in the rain, remove the moisture with a soft cloth and dry it away from heat and direct sunlight. The Tokyo Cleaning and Life Hygiene Industry Association also advises people to wipe off moisture, dry in the shade, and avoid sealing items while they are still damp.［1］

Pay attention to humidity and placement when not in use.

Tools get damaged when used, but PU leather is not a material that will stop deteriorating if you leave it unused. Kaken Test Center explains that while it is not possible to completely prevent hydrolysis, deterioration can be delayed by being considerate of the storage environment.［2］

After drying thoroughly, store it in a well-ventilated place.

Check not only the surface but also the handle and lining for moisture before storing. Avoid direct sunlight, high temperature and humidity, and do not leave it in an airtight place that traps moisture. If you create space on the shelf and can place the bag without crushing it, it will retain its shape when you take it out.

If you want to fill the inside with something clean and resistant to color transfer, just enough to lightly support the shape. There is no need to pack it tightly and apply force to the surface. Instructions on how to store items by covering them with a breathable cloth can also be found in the product guide.［4］

Do not decide on storage figures without basis.

For general PU bags, there is no guarantee that they will last for many years at what percentage of humidity. This is due to differences in materials, finishes, and storage conditions. If you use a dehumidifier, avoid damaging the bag or coming into contact with the agent, and follow the directions for using the dehumidifier itself. Even if you don't use it for a while, take it out and check the surface from time to time.

Choose a bag for everyday use with care in mind

What you want to look at before buying is not just the coolness of the front. The areas you touch, the shape that makes it easy to wipe away dirt, and the dimensions that match the baggage you want to put in. If you can imagine where you will put your bag when you get home, you will also be able to see how you will interact with that bag.

COWMONO COLLECTION

Available in two shapes depending on the amount of luggage.

For those who want to carry their everyday luggage with a shoulder bag.

PU leather shoulder bag_Unisex_B

A shoulder bag made of microfiber synthetic PU leather and cotton lining. The size listed on the product page is 39 x 33 x 12 cm, and the weight is 1.0 kg. It has slot pockets and zipper pockets on the inside, and an open pocket on the outside. Please imagine the weight of your bag and compare it to your regular bag.

See photos and specifications →

Thin shape for those who want to make their hands look neat

PU leather clutch bag_Unisex_A

A cotton-lined clutch bag made of crazy horse-style PU leather. The dimensions listed on the product page are length 35.5cm, width 1.4cm, height 26cm, and it has an internal compartment. The vintage look is something to be enjoyed separately from the aging of genuine leather. Please take a look at the photo to check the thickness of the accessory you are carrying and the shape of the opening.

See photos and specifications →

Please refer to the product page for specifications. Don't judge whether it can be stored only by the external dimensions, but also check the opening and internal dimensions. Please check each product page for purchase availability and color.

Choosing a product based on its weight and dimensions is one way to prepare for easier maintenance. Don't force yourself to pack your luggage, choose the shape that suits the occasion. I want to be able to take my favorite items with me without hesitation.

Frequently asked questions about caring for PU leather

Will it last longer if I apply the cream every day?

This cannot be said uniformly. Check the suitability and purpose of the equipment and follow the instructions for use. Prioritize regular dust removal and maintenance that does not leave any moisture behind.

What should I do if it doesn't come off just by wiping with water?

Only if you can confirm a cleaner that you can use, try it according to its instructions. If the color or shine changes, stop rubbing and do not keep rubbing the same area. For stains that won't come off, contact a specialty store and tell them the material and supplies you used.

Will applying a waterproofing spray prevent hydrolysis?

Repelling water droplets is different from completely preventing hydrolysis, and spraying alone cannot guarantee longevity. It is also important to store it properly without leaving any moisture behind.

Can I use oil to make the peeling parts less noticeable?

Oil does not restore the structure of degraded resin. Stop using the product without repainting it, and consult a specialty store to see if it can be repaired. Depending on the extent of the damage, we may consider replacing it.

Can I wipe the inside of the bag in the same way as the outside?

The lining may be a different material, so empty and dust the pockets and choose the method that matches the material and instructions. Even if the product can be used for the outer material, do not use it for the lining.

Take care of your favorite bag so that you can take it out tomorrow.

When caring for PU leather, you don't have to start by gathering a variety of supplies. Check the material, remove dust and moisture, and when necessary, use compatible supplies as directed. This order should be easy to incorporate into your daily life.

Don't panic if it gets a little dirty, check for signs of damage, and once you've finished cleaning up when you get home, think about what clothes to pair with it next. Please enjoy your favorite bag in this way.

Author information

Author name: Yama (Cowmono Owner)

Self-introduction: Engaged in sales and marketing for more than a quarter at domestic and overseas apparel companies. He has a deep knowledge of fashion, sports, outdoor activities, and subculture.

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