Do you use waterproof spray on your handbags?

I was carrying my big teal leather bag this morning on a snowy commute, and it was getting a bit wet and spotty (no worries, it dried fine and the stuff inside stayed dry), which got me to thinking about why I never thought to spray my handbags with waterproof spray! I do it with all my shoes so why don't I do it with my bags?

Before it was stolen, I used to use my Longchamp bag in the rain, which would get wet on the outside but which dried quickly and had a waterproof coating on the inside. My nylon MZ Wallace bag also has a similar construction. But honestly I'm too lazy to switch bags all the time. I generally carry the same bag for 2 weeks or so, get bored, and switch to a new one for the next 2 weeks. I don't fancy the idea of switching bags every time it snows or rains!

Does anyone have any experience with waterproofing leather bags? Do you just use the same spray you use on shoes? And how well does it work? All my bags have full zip closures so water getting inside from the opening is not an issue.

12 years ago

Sveta

(website)

Veteran

I have never done it but I would use the spray I use for my leather jackets rather than shoes. I know it is not recommended to use shoe spray for jackets...

Diana

Oh, good point, Sveta. I have to admit I haven't sprayed my leather jackets either, although most of them don't need it (since they are tough and meant to be distressed a bit). I really should spray my turquoise jacket though. I'm guessing you use something from Danier though, which I can't get here. Do any US fabbers have a suggestion for what spray to buy?

kkards

i have not sprayed by bags or jackets, but now that you bring it up, i'm wondering why. i have sprayed a lot of boots and shoes.

rae

I've used Wilson's waterproofing spray with good results - no change in color, which is what I cared the most about. Come to think of it, I never sprayed the Brahmin, but it has a very sturdy, shiny finish.

KIWI makes some heavy duty waterproofers, but reviews say those might darken the color.

Yes, I use Danier care products for my jackets. If I keep the dove satchel I think I will spray it as well...

JAileen

I don't spray anything - bags, shoes, or jackets. I never thought about it. We get snow, but practically no rain.

Sarah A

I used a brand called Cadillac for two of my leather bags, inc one yellow, with no darkening and good results. Purchased it at the cobbler for about the same price as Kiwi spray (which ive used on shoes but not on a bag).

Anonymous

No need. I was told in a verra fancy leather repair shop that most leather is treated at the factory, so there is no need. The only materials I waterproof are cowhide and suede.

Zap, the teal bag was definitely spotting with the melting snow, rather than some of my other bags which the water more or less rolls off of or which get wet but not darker. The spots did disappear once it dried though. It's kind of a thinner, softer leather, a little distressed and not super high quality, so that might have something to do with it.

Rae and Sarah, I'll look into the Wilson's and Cadillac products. Thanks for the recs! I do have the Kiwi spray for shoes but I think I'll keep it away from my bags for now.

Lisa

Good question. I don't spray my bags, never thought to do so actually.

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