What to do about color transfer on leather bags? What to do and prevent when it gets on your clothes/bag
His white shirt had the same brown color as the shoulder straps. On the other hand, when a light-colored bag came in contact with denim, it turned blue.
Both cases involve "color staining on leather bags," but they deal with different people. The color on your clothes should match the material of the clothing, and the color on your bag should match the leather finish.
First of all, stop contact with the person to whom the color has been transferred. Don't rush and scrub too hard or use the detergent you have on hand; instead, take photos of the location and extent.
| colored place | first thing to do | Where to go when in doubt |
|---|---|---|
| Clothing such as shirts and coats | Separate from the bag and check the washing instructions on the clothing. | clothing cleaning shop |
| Bag body/leather shoulder strap | Stop touching and check the type of leather and instruction manual. | Purchase store, specialty store that handles leather products |
| wet leather surface | Absorb moisture without rubbing to remove color | If discoloration remains even after drying, visit a specialty store. |
Whether or not it can be completely removed depends on the material, finish, and how the color gets into it. Don't decide on one way to drop it from the beginning, and start by not expanding it any further.
Denim, rain, sweat. In what situations does color transfer occur?
Color transfer cannot be prevented just by looking at the bag's leather. It also depends on the clothes you come into contact with, how wet they are that day, and how much they rub in the same spot.
For example, dark denim and the back of the bag. Sweaty shirt and shoulder straps. A scene in which a rain-soaked bag is placed on a bright sofa. If you pay attention to both the person transferring and the person being transferred, you will be able to see the uses you want to avoid.
At cowmono, we advise you to be careful about contact with light-colored clothing when using Crazy Horse leather products, especially when you first start using them.Precautions when using the product
When your bag gets stained with denim or other colors
Consider surface dust and attached color separately.
Dusting with a soft cloth and removing dye are two different tasks. Do not use force to remove colors that do not change with dry wiping. If the surface of the leather is damaged, problems other than color transfer will increase.
If you are wet from rain or sweat, first take care of the moisture. Blot with a soft, dry cloth, adjust the shape, and dry away from direct sunlight and heat sources.Reference when getting wet: Coronil
Use the cleaner after knowing the finish of the leather.
Even with the same genuine leather, the products that can be used are different for smooth leather, brushed leather, enamel, etc. It is safer to not apply a single method to tanned leather or leather that contains oil or wax based on your own judgment.
Even if you have confirmed that the cleaner can be used, try it in an inconspicuous area first. Do not mix up bags and shoes; use small amounts and handle gently. If you notice a change in color or shine, do not continue and consult a doctor.Reference for selecting supplies and trying them out: Columbus
The colored area is wide, I can't tell if it's just the surface, and I feel something strange after trying it. If this is the case, please contact a specialty store and include a photo before adding more items.
When leather color stains a shirt or coat
Do not use leather cleaners or oils on clothing. Caring for your bag and removing stains from your clothes should be considered separately.
The first thing you should check is the washing instructions on the clothing. Even for items that can be washed at home, whether you can use detergent or bleach depends on the fabric, color, and accessories. Don't decide that you can use bleach because your clothes are white; instead, follow the instructions for the clothes and detergent.
For items that cannot be washed at home, materials that are difficult to handle, important clothing, and items that have a large area of color, please take them to a dry cleaner as soon as possible. It will be easier to explain the condition if you tell them when you noticed it, where it was in contact with the bag, if it was wet from rain or sweat, and what you have already tried.
Will color transfer be stopped if I apply oil or wax?
Don't think of mink oil or leather preservation cream as a universal coating to stop color transfer. This is because even if it says that it can be used on leather, it does not necessarily mean that it can remove dyes or prevent color transfer to clothing.
The purpose of care is to add oil and to deal with the cause of color transfer. When using supplies, check not only the material, but also what the supplies are for. The more oil you apply, the better; if you apply too much, it may remain on the surface.Reference for purpose of use and application amount: Coronil
Prevention begins with the combination of bags and clothes.
Before you go out, take a look at where your bag touches. Not only the shoulder straps, but also the back and bottom corners of the main unit may rub against your clothes every time you walk.
- Avoid prolonged contact of dark-colored bags with light-colored clothing when you first use them.
- When wearing dark denim and light-colored bags, be careful of color transfer from clothing to the bag.
- When it gets damp from rain or sweat, do not keep it close to your body.
- Do not stack wet bags on top of clothing or bright furniture.
If using a waterproof/water repellent spray, also check the leather finish and application of the product. This product is used to prepare for water, and should not be treated as a guarantee that it will completely prevent color transfer due to friction. Please follow the product label for usage location and drying time.Reference for choosing a spray: Coronil
2 recommended items from cowmono
Next time you choose a bag, in addition to the color and shape, take a look at the photos to see what surfaces will touch your clothes. The following is not an introduction in the sense of a product that does not transfer color, but two points to help you think about the shape that suits the situation in which it will be used.
Crazy horse leather shoulder bag_G
A shoulder bag that allows you to open the flap and take out your belongings. Please take a look at the photos of the main body and shoulder straps while imagining how you would match them with your everyday clothes.
See photos and specifications →
Crazy Horse Leather Waist Back_H
For those who want to incorporate the texture of leather by wearing it around the waist. Please check the combination with your clothes and belt by looking at the photos of the back, attachment part, and storage.
See photos and specifications →Please check the material, size, color, price, and handling precautions on each product page.
Frequently asked questions
Is it okay to wear white clothes if I apply waterproof spray?
You can't judge from that alone. The effect of repelling water and completely preventing color transfer are two different things. Also be careful about contact with light-colored clothing and friction in the same area.
Will the color stop moving if I use it?
It is impossible to say "how many times you need to use it before it's safe". You need to be careful not only when you first start using it, but also when it gets exposed to rain, sweat, or when the combination with clothing changes.
Is it safe if the dry cloth does not get colored?
This is a guideline that the color did not develop under the dry conditions at that time. In actual use, the degree of wetness and the way it rubs will change. Avoid rubbing too hard over and over again to make sure no color sticks.
Is it because the color transfers that the crazy horse leather becomes brighter when bent?
"Pull-up", where the bent part appears temporarily brighter, is different from the phenomenon where other objects become colored.material guideThis page explains the characteristics of the leather with photos.
Can I wipe it with nail polish remover or rubbing alcohol?
Do not use as a self-treatment for color transfer. It is not possible to select and remove dyes with products whose compatibility with the leather or finish cannot be confirmed. Check with your store of purchase or specialty store about available methods.
What should I say when consulting about cowmono products?
Please let us know the name of the product, where the color has been applied, whether there has been rain or sweat, and what treatments you have tried so far, along with photos. For inquiries regarding purchased products, please contactContact usWe accept applications from
Enjoying the texture and paying attention to your clothes together
It's one thing to enjoy the shine and scratches of leather, but it's another to be able to enjoy the color on your clothes. Change your bag on the day you wear your precious coat. On rainy days, choose a way to hold your bag that won't get you wet. Even small changes like this are a way to use your favorite tools for a long time.
View the Crazy Horse Leather material guide
Author information
Yama (cowmono Owner)｜Slowth lab representative
Has extensive sales/marketing experience at domestic and international apparel companies. He writes about a wide range of topics, including fashion, outdoor activities, and subculture.