Tote Bag Care 101: How to Clean & Maintain Your Tote

A well-made tote is built to handle busy days, commutes, and everything in between. With the right care, it can look great and stay functional for years.

This quick guide covers the basics of cleaning, protecting, and storing your tote so it always looks its best. For more in-depth tips, keep an eye on the LuxaTote Collective where we’ll be posting detailed care guides soon.

Caring for Different Materials

Canvas Totes
Canvas is durable but can attract dirt and stains quickly. Spot-clean small marks with a damp cloth and mild soap. For deeper cleans, hand wash gently with lukewarm water. Avoid machine washing since it can warp the shape and weaken stitching. 

Leather Totes
Leather ages beautifully if treated with care. Wipe it down regularly with a dry or slightly damp cloth. For stains, use a leather-specific cleaner. Conditioning once or twice a year helps prevent cracks and keeps the leather soft. Avoid soaking leather in water. The LuxaTote Leather Collection is designed with premium finishes that will only get better with age if cared for properly.

Vegan Leather Totes
Vegan leather is lower-maintenance than natural leather but still benefits from proper care. Use a gentle cleanser or simply wipe with warm water and a soft cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals, which can damage the finish. Store away from direct sunlight to prevent fading. If you’re considering a chic alternative, the Canopy Verde Borough Vegan Leather Laptop Tote offers an elevated look with easy upkeep.

Handle Protection

Handles take the most wear. Oils from hands can darken leather and fray canvas. For leather, consider handle wraps or a conditioning balm. For canvas, occasional spot-cleaning keeps them fresh. A more structured tote is built to withstand everyday use, but a little care goes a long way.

Stain Removal Tips

• Water-based stains: Dab (don’t rub) with a damp cloth.
• Oil or grease stains: Sprinkle cornstarch or baking soda, let it sit overnight, then brush it off.
• Ink stains: These can be tough—try rubbing alcohol on canvas, but for leather, it’s best to take it to a professional cleaner.

Spot-Clean vs. Full Clean

• Spot-clean: Perfect for small stains or surface dirt.
• Full clean: Needed when the bag looks dull overall or after long-term use. For full cleans, always check the care instructions for your specific material.

Storing Your Tote

To keep your tote in shape, don’t just toss it in the closet. Instead:

• Store upright, filled with tissue or a soft cloth to retain structure.
• Keep it in a dust bag when not in use.
• Avoid stacking heavy items on top.

A well-stored tote keeps its form and looks newer for longer.

Final Note

Taking a few minutes to care for your tote helps it stay timeless, whether it’s your go-to daily bag or your weekend companion. At LuxaTote we believe that investing in a tote is also about investing in its longevity.

This was just a quick starter guide. More detailed care tips for each material are coming soon on our blog, so stay tuned!