How to Store Suede and Leather Bags to Keep Their Shape
By Designer Shoes, Bags & Accessories for Women | Emmy London | Published: 2026-10-16
Category: Tips & Care
Learn how to store suede bags and leather handbags properly so they keep their shape, avoid creases, and stay dust-free. Step-by-step handbag storage tips for clutches and everyday bags.
Quick answer
Store suede and leather bags upright, lightly filled with acid-free tissue or bubble wrap to hold their shape, inside a breathable dust bag, away from direct sunlight and heat. Never use plastic bags, and avoid hanging by the strap for long periods. This simple routine prevents creasing, sagging, and colour fading.
Why the right storage matters for suede and leather
Suede and leather are natural materials that respond to their environment. Suede has a napped surface that can flatten or crease if pressed, while leather can dry out, crack, or lose its shape if stored poorly. Dust is abrasive on both, and sunlight fades dyes over time. A structured bag like a clutch or a boxy handbag is especially vulnerable to dents if stored under weight or crammed into a tight space. Proper storage is not about being fussy; it is about giving the material room to breathe and maintain its form between wears.
Step 1: Empty and clean before storing
Remove everything from the bag, including receipts, pens, and loose coins. Turn the bag upside down and gently shake out any debris. For suede, brush the nap with a soft suede brush to lift dust and restore texture. For leather, wipe with a dry, soft cloth. If the bag has a chain strap, detach it if possible to avoid scratching the body. Check pockets for forgotten items that could leak or rust.
Step 2: Stuff to hold the shape
Use acid-free tissue paper or bubble wrap to fill the bag loosely. Avoid newspaper or coloured tissue, as the ink can transfer to the lining. For structured bags, shape the stuffing to match the bag's natural silhouette. Do not overstuff; you want support, not tension. For soft suede bags, stuff gently to prevent creasing. If the bag has a flap, place a piece of tissue between the flap and the body to prevent imprints.
Step 3: Use a breathable dust bag
A cotton or flannel dust bag protects from dust, light, and scratches while allowing air circulation. Never use plastic bags, which trap moisture and can cause mildew or dry out leather. If you do not have a dust bag, a clean pillowcase works. For extra protection, place the dust bag inside a storage box, but ensure the box is not airtight. If storing multiple bags, keep them separate to avoid colour transfer and friction.
Step 4: Choose the right location
Store bags on a shelf in a cool, dry place, away from radiators, windows, and direct sunlight. Humidity can damage suede and leather, so avoid damp basements or bathrooms. If you live in a humid climate, use a dehumidifier or silica gel packets in the storage area. Do not store bags in direct contact with concrete floors, which can wick moisture. A closet shelf or under-bed storage box works well if the environment is stable.
Step 5: Rotate and check regularly
Even in storage, bags need attention. Every few months, take them out, re-stuff if needed, and let them air for a few hours. This prevents prolonged pressure points and allows you to spot any issues like mould or drying. If you notice the leather looking dry, apply a leather conditioner according to the manufacturer's instructions. For suede, a gentle brush will keep the nap fresh. Rotate your bags so no single one stays compressed for too long.
Step-by-step handbag storage routine
- Empty and clean: Remove all contents, shake out debris, and brush suede or wipe leather with a dry cloth. Detach any straps if possible. Common mistake: storing with receipts or pens that can leak or transfer ink.
- Stuff to hold shape: Fill with acid-free tissue or bubble wrap, shaping to the bag's natural form. Avoid overstuffing. Checkpoint: the bag should look as it does when worn, not stretched.
- Place in a breathable dust bag: Use a cotton dust bag or clean pillowcase. Never use plastic, which traps moisture. Common mistake: using a plastic bag 'just for a short time'—it can cause mildew quickly.
- Store upright in a cool, dry place: Keep on a shelf away from sunlight, heat, and humidity. Do not hang by the strap for long periods. Checkpoint: the storage spot should be stable and not prone to temperature swings.
- Rotate and inspect regularly: Every few months, air bags out, re-stuff, and check for dryness or mould. Condition leather as needed. Next step: set a calendar reminder to rotate your bags seasonally.
Emmy London bags built for proper storage
- Natasha Vapour Suede: A classic Emmy London kid suede clutch bag in a chic vapour grey shade. This elegant hand-crafted clutch opens to reveal a soft neutral oyster suede lining and zip pocket. The clutch is roomy enough for your essentials and fastens with a secure magnetic popper. The cool powdery grey colour teams well with a variety of outfit options and is immensely popular with stylists and the press. There's handy detachable... The detachable strap (implied by 'There's handy detachable...') means you can remove it before storage to prevent scratches, and the structured shape benefits from stuffing to maintain its silhouette.
- Natasha Tan Leather: A classic Emmy London clutch bag in luxurious leather. This elegant, handcrafted clutch opens to reveal a soft neutral oyster suede lining and zip pocket. The clutch is roomy enough for your essentials and fastens with a secure magnetic popper. This is a gorgeous, timeless tan shade that works all year round. Leather requires breathable storage to avoid drying out; a dust bag is essential. The neutral lining means you can use white tissue without fear of colour transfer.
- Natasha Chocolate Suede: Created using our new chocolate suede, this handcrafted clutch bag is simple and sophisticated. The clutch opens to reveal a soft neutral suede lining and zip pocket. The clutch is roomy enough for your essentials and fastens with a secure magnetic popper and has a handy detachable suede and gold chain strap. Chocolate is a fantastic shade to wear throughout the year and pairs well with a variety of outfit colours. The detachable suede and gold chain strap should be removed or wrapped separately to prevent the chain from pressing into the suede and leaving marks. The dark chocolate suede shows dust more readily, so regular brushing before storage is key.
