How to Care for Your Marc Jacobs Tote to Keep It Looking New

Leather Totes

Leather totes require more delicate care. Use a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and dirt. For more stubborn stains, use a leather cleaner or conditioner that is specifically formulated for your tote’s leather type. Test the product on a small, inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire surface. After cleaning, apply a leather conditioner to keep the material soft and prevent cracking.

Vegan Leather or Synthetic Totes

For vegan leather or synthetic materials, wipe the surface with a damp cloth. Use a mild soap solution for tough stains, but make sure to rinse thoroughly to avoid soap residue. To maintain its glossy finish, you can apply a specialized vegan leather conditioner.

2. Proper Storage Techniques

How you store your Marc Jacobs Tote when you’re not using it is just as important as how you clean it. Proper storage can help prevent creases, fading, and general wear and tear.

Store in a Dust Bag

Whenever you’re not using your tote, always store it in the dust bag that came with it. A dust bag protects the tote from dust, dirt, and potential scratches. If you don’t have the original dust bag, you can use a cotton or linen bag to store the tote when not in use.

Avoid Direct Sunlight

Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause fading, especially with lighter-colored or brightly-hued bags. Store your Marc Jacobs Tote in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve its color and material integrity.

Keep It Shape

To keep your tote from losing its shape, especially if it’s a larger style, consider using a bag insert or stuffing it with tissue paper when storing it. This helps maintain the structure of the bag and prevents it from slouching or getting misshapen.

3. Handle With Care

The handles of your Marc Jacobs Tote are often the areas most prone to wear and tear, as they experience the most stress. Taking a few extra precautions with the handles can go a long way in preserving their look and feel.

Avoid Overloading

Overloading your tote with heavy items can stretch the handles and cause them to weaken or even break. Be mindful of how much you’re carrying and avoid filling the tote with overly heavy items. If you’re carrying a laptop or other heavy objects, consider using an interior pouch or organizer to help distribute the weight more evenly.

Gentle Use

When holding your tote, try to avoid tugging or pulling on the handles, especially if you’re carrying something heavy. This can cause stress on the stitching and materials, leading to damage over time.

4. Protect From Water and Spills

Water and spills are one of the biggest threats to your Marc Jacobs Tote, particularly if it’s made of canvas or leather. Water stains can be difficult to remove and can cause lasting damage if not addressed quickly. Here are some tips for protecting your tote from liquids:

Use a Water Repellent Spray

For canvas or leather bags, consider applying a water-repellent spray. These sprays create a protective barrier that helps repel water and prevent stains. Be sure to choose a spray that is compatible with your bag’s material and test it on a small area before applying it to the entire bag.

Address Spills Immediately

If your tote gets wet or you spill something on it, act quickly. For liquids like coffee or wine, blot the stain with a soft cloth (don’t rub, as this can spread the stain). Use a cleaning solution appropriate for the bag’s material and gently clean the affected area.

5. Repair and Maintenance

Over time, your Marc Jacobs Tote may experience some wear and tear, such as loose stitching or minor scuffs. Addressing small issues before they become major problems can help prolong the life of your tote.

Stitching and Repairs

If you notice any loose threads or stitching, it’s important to address it as soon as possible. You can either take your tote to a professional repair service or, for small issues, use a needle and thread to fix it yourself. For more significant damage, such as broken straps or worn-out leather, consider consulting a professional handbag repair service to restore the bag to its original condition.

Keep the Bag Fresh

Even when not in use, it’s important to keep your Marc Jacobs Tote fresh. If the bag starts to develop an odor, you can place a sachet of dried lavender or cedarwood inside to naturally deodorize it. Be sure to remove the sachet before using the bag again.

6. Seasonal Maintenance

As the seasons change, so too should your approach to caring for your tote. Weather conditions can affect your bag’s appearance, so be mindful of how you care for it during different seasons.

Summer Care

In the summer, increased humidity can cause leather bags to become soft or lose their shape. Make sure to store your Marc Jacobs Tote in a dry, cool place when not in use, and avoid leaving it in hot cars or areas with direct sunlight. If your tote is exposed to sweat or sunscreen, clean it promptly to prevent stains.

Winter Care

In the winter, salt from snow or wet roads can damage the fabric and leather of your tote. Be extra careful when carrying your tote in wet conditions, and wipe it down with a damp cloth as soon as possible if it comes into contact with salt or snow. For leather bags, applying a conditioner during the colder months can help prevent dryness and cracking.

Conclusion: A Little Care Goes a Long Way

With the right care and maintenance, your Marc Jacobs Tote can last for years, remaining as stylish and functional as the day you bought it. From regular cleaning to proper storage, taking small steps to protect your tote will help preserve its beauty and ensure it stays looking new. Whether you’re rocking your tote every day or keeping it in rotation with other bags, these simple tips will keep it in top condition for seasons to come.