How To: Protect Your Bag From Sun & Heat

• Too much direct sunlight, heat and humidity can damage bag materials over time.
• Preserve the quality and extend the longevity of your handbags with these simple steps.

The best summer bags are made to go with you anywhere—hello, beach weekends and road trips with friends—and crafted to last. But even the most durable accessories need a little extra love and care when summer temperatures skyrocket and the sun’s at peak strength; too much direct sunlight, heat and humidity can damage bag materials over time. Luckily, extending the longevity of your favorite handbag is as easy as taking the following simple steps.

Read on to learn how to protect your bag from sun and heat while checking off all the plans on your summer bucket list.

Sun exposure can cause leather, canvas, suede or richly colored fabrics to fade—try not to leave handbags and totes in direct sunlight for extended periods of time. When outdoors, stash your bag in the shade when possible, or cover it with your jacket or swim coverup. At home, avoid storing bags near sunny windows.

A hidden culprit of heat-related damage for handbags? Leaving them in your car for too long. Extreme heat can dry out leather, weaken adhesives and even cause some bag materials to lose their structure. Bags with coated, metallic, patent leather or embellished finishes are especially susceptible to higher temperatures.

Dust bags serve more functions than simply keeping dust away—they also will protect your handbag from sunlight or accidental scratches when not in use. Store accessories in a dust bag in a cool, dry spot, like your closet. You’ll also want to avoid storing bags in plastic or airtight containers, which can trap heat and moisture.

To learn more, read our guide on How to Store Bags to Maintain Shape and Quality Over Time.

Even the highest quality, most durable leathers can dry out in heat, especially when exposed to the sun often. Care products such as leather conditioner can help maintain your bag’s suppleness and prevent cracking—just be sure to check that you’re using the right product for the specific type of leather, as they can vary.

Try: Coach Leather Moisturizer

Sunscreens, hand cream, tanning oil and other lotions that you use on your skin can also be harmful to your handbag, leaving marks on handles or lighter materials. Always let sunblock or lotion fully dry before grabbing your bag, and be mindful of where the material sits on your skin when wearing a crossbody or shoulder bag.

A quick clean can go a long way in preserving your bag after a long day in the sun. Wipe down leather or coated canvas with a soft cloth that’s either dry or slightly damp. You can also use a specialty leather cleaner on some bags; be sure to first check that it’s the correct type. For natural materials like straw or raffia, gently brush away sand or dust.

Try: Coach Product Care Set