[Leather-friendly storage method] Prevent mold and deformation!

Hello! This is Nakajima from HushTug.

This time, we will introduce you to how to store your bag before the rainy season begins.
By storing your leather products properly, you can prevent mold and deformation, allowing you to enjoy your leather products for a long time!

Learn the correct way to store your leather products so you can enjoy them for a long time.

Check the storage period for leather products

One of the most common problems when using leather products is how to store them.
When you will not be using your item for a long period of time, such as during the rainy season or on hot summer days, be sure to learn the correct storage method to prevent mold and deformation, so that you're ready for the next time you need it!

The procedure varies depending on the storage period. First, make sure you understand the storage period and choose the appropriate storage method.

1. Daily storage method (short term)

How do you usually store the bags you use every day for work or on holiday?
Storage may be a bit of an exaggeration, but it is important to let the bag rest for a little while after use.

When not in use, remove any items stored inside and place newspaper or soft towels inside instead to eliminate sources of moisture, insects, and odors.
Reducing the stress on your bag will also help prevent it from losing its shape, so try to let it rest as much as possible when not in use!

2. Long-term storage method (long term)

Items that are only used on special occasions such as weddings, funerals, or items that are used according to the season are often stored for long periods of time.

The most important thing for these items is to protect them from dryness and moisture, so it is best to remove all the contents, wipe off any dirt around them, and apply oil maintenance before storing them.
Also, to prevent it from losing its shape, put towels or newspapers inside and store it in a soft cloth bag to keep it from getting dusty!

There are proper procedures and preparations you need to make for long-term storage, so we'll introduce them to you.

Preparations to make before long-term storage

Here are some things you need to store leather products for the long term.
If you have something that you haven't prepared yet, I hope this helps.

1. Horsehair brush

Use it to remove dust and dirt from leather.
When you use the bag regularly, dust is likely to accumulate, especially in areas where the leather overlaps and at the bottom of the bag, so be sure to brush it to keep it clean!

2. Maintenance oil

Oil maintenance is primarily intended to replenish moisture and oil.
When storing for a long period of time, we recommend oiling it as it tends to dry out easily. HushTug recommends mink oil, but any maintenance cream for leather will do!

3. Cloth (for dry wiping)

A dry wiping cloth used as the finishing touch when performing oil maintenance.

Use a cloth to wipe off excess oil that comes out when applying oil. Excess oil can cause dirt and mold, so be sure to wipe it off thoroughly!
As long as the material is cotton, you can use an old T-shirt as a substitute.

4. Towels/newspapers to put inside

It is used to prevent deformation and mold during long-term storage.
Newspaper not only absorbs moisture, but also has an anti-odor effect, so I recommend it! If you are worried about the color transferring to the lining, you can wrap it in cloth to be safe.

5. Bags to wrap your items in

It helps protect it from dust and dirt during storage.
This can be the cloth that comes with the leather product when you buy it. If you have thrown it away, you can use any breathable fabric instead.

Please avoid using plastic storage bags.
Poor ventilation will trap moisture and cause mold. Be careful!

How to store leather products / steps

Here are some steps to take when storing leather products for a long period of time.
Follow the correct procedure to prepare for your next use!

1. Remove dirt with a horsehair brush and perform oil maintenance

An important point to remember before storing is to not store it while it is dirty.
If you store it for a long time, any dirt left behind can cause mold and deterioration of the leather. Use a horsehair brush to remove dust and dirt! If there is any stubborn dirt, it is also effective to use a leather cleaner, so use it as needed.

After removing dust and dirt, use maintenance oil to moisturize the surface of the leather. Applying too much maintenance oil can cause mold, so if there is any excess oil, be sure to wipe it off thoroughly with a dry cloth.

You can find detailed care instructions using maintenance oil here.
→ Oil maintenance method

2. Put newspapers or towels inside

Place rolled up newspapers or towels inside the leather item to prevent it from becoming damp and losing its shape.
If you are storing it for a long period of time (more than one month), be sure to replace the newspapers and towels inside regularly.

During the rainy season, when humidity is higher than usual, it is a good idea to change the cover once every 1-2 weeks. Also, when using insect repellent to repel insects, we recommend placing it around the leather product rather than directly inside it.

3. Store in a bag in a well-ventilated place

Store your leather item in a storage bag.
The ideal storage location is a well-ventilated place away from direct sunlight, away from high temperatures and humidity.
Also, to prevent leather products from losing their shape, it is best to store them vertically and avoid hanging them.

Leather items like bag handles and belts can stretch if stored for a long time, so try to store them upright as much as possible!

Follow the correct storage method to keep it in good condition

Today we're introducing how to store leather products.
We are now entering the rainy season, and the humidity will increase. Leather products are sensitive to humidity, so let's take measures to prevent humidity and get through the rainy season!

Even during regular use, the stress on the leather can be reduced by periodically resting it.
It might be a good idea to take this opportunity to pay a little more attention to your leather products so that they last longer.

Thank you for reading to the end this time as well.

HushTug Nakajima