Cowhide Bag Care Guide

You should have received some care instructions with your new bag, but if not, no worries; we have them right here.

This is how to take care of your new bestie.

Daily Care

• Handle with clean hands: Oils, lotions, and dirt can stain the hide.
• Avoid overloading: Excess weight can stretch, rip and or distort the leather.
• Rotate usage regularly: Give the bag time to rest and recover its shape. Your cowhide bag is for occasional use.
• Minimise friction: Avoid rubbing the bag against rough clothing (like denim or wool coats), this can cause hair loss over time.
• Carry thoughtfully: Try not to drag it across surfaces or place it on the floor.

Protect from the Elements

• Keep it dry: Cowhide is not waterproof. If it gets wet, gently pat dry with a soft cloth, never use heat (like a radiator or hairdryer). Air dry only!
• Avoid prolonged sun exposure: Direct sunlight can fade and dry out the leather, causing hair to become brittle.
• Watch for humidity: Too much moisture can cause mold; too little can dry and crack the leather.

Cleaning the Hair

• Shake off debris: Turn the bag upside down and lightly shake to remove dust or dirt.
• Spot clean only when needed: Use a barely damp cloth and dab gently no harsh scrubbing; never soak the hair.
• Avoid harsh chemicals: Stay away from alcohol-based cleaners or household products.

Storage

• Stuff with tissue paper: This helps maintain shape (avoid newspaper as this can transfer ink).
• Use a dust bag: Store in the dust bag provided.
• Keep in a cool, dry place: Avoid basements or attics with extreme conditions.
• Store upright: to prevent creasing and warping.

How to Keep the Hair Lying Flat

• Use Gentle Hand Smoothing: with clean hands; smooth the hair down with your palm in the natural direction of growth. This helps train the hair to stay flat over time, especially in high-touch areas.
• Brush gently: Use a soft-bristle brush and always go in the direction of the hair growth. Always brush in one direction only; never back-and-forth. Do this lightly; over brushing can loosen hair.
• Light Damp Reset (For Stubborn Areas): If the hair is sticking up, lightly mist your hand or a cloth with water (not the bag directly) and gently smooth the area down. Let it air dry naturally, then brush lightly if needed.This helps “reset” the hair without soaking the hide.
• If a section keeps sticking up, it’s often from repeated friction (like where your arm rubs). Try adjusting how you carry the bag slightly; this reduces future lifting and helps the hair stay sleek.

Important Don’ts

• Don’t machine wash or submerge in water.
• Don’t use baby wipes or generic “leather wipes” without checking suitability.
• Don’t store near heat sources or in sealed plastic containers.
• Don’t use standard leather creams or oils on the hair.
• Don’t scrub or use brushes with stiff bristles.
• Don’t expose it to prolonged sunlight (can fade and dry out the hide).
• Don’t panic over slight shedding; a small amount is normal with natural hide.

Extra Tip

• If the hair starts looking a bit flat: Lightly brush it or rub gently with your hand in the natural direction to revive its texture.
• If a section keeps sticking up, it’s often from repeated friction (like where your arm rubs). Try adjusting how you carry the bag slightly; this reduces future lifting and helps the hair stay sleek.