Product Care

Leather hides have been treated with oils and waxes during the tanning process to help keep them weather resistant. They can handle a little rain or moisture without harm. 

To lengthen the life of your bag, it is important to take proper care of the leather. If you bag has become wet, be sure to allow the leather to dry completely before deciding if and additional cleaning or conditioning is required.

•  Use a soft brush or moist cloth to remove any surface dirt. 

• Do not use any soap or detergent when cleaning your bag. A little warm water on a cloth should do the trick.

• Leave the bag to dry in a ventilated area for 24 hours after cleaning.

• If required, use a dry, natural fibre cloth to gently rub the surface of the leather in any areas that may appear dull. Rubbing the leather in a circular motion will help to restore a natural shine.

• If your leather bag needs a more through cleaning, apply a small amount of leather cleanser, wiping away any extra product with a damp cloth after application. To avoid over-treating the leather, applying a cleaner one or two times a year should be sufficient.

N.B. some leather treatments can change or deepen the colour of the leather. Be sure to test a small, inconspicuous patch of leather before you begin.

Waxed canvas is durable, water resistant, and will develop a patina with regular use. We hope you agree that these marks and creases add to the beauty of the bag.

To clean Waxed Canvas: 

• Start with a soft brush or sponge, lightly wipe off any dirt or mud.

• Use cold water and a gentle soap, scrubbing gently, so as not to remove the wax from the surface of the fabric.

• Then wipe away any excess soap, pat dry with a lint free cloth or paper towel and allow to air dry.

To re-wax Cotton Waxed Canvas:

• Use a soft waxed canvas re-dressing product by applying to a clean cloth and the rubbing in a circular motion to the bag where needed, or with a solid bar of re-proofing wax rubbed directly onto the waxed canvas in smooth strokes.

• Follow the instructions on the re-waxing product of your choice, bearing in mind, some products may advise using heat to help melt the wax allowing it to penetrate the cotton fibres of the fabric.

• If using heat, be very careful not to allow the fabric to become too hot, or touch the heating element to the surface of the fabric. 

• Keep heat away from leather elements on the bag and away from any metal hardware.

• Do Not: Machine Wash, Tumble Dry or Dry Clean your Waxed Canvas or Leather Bag.

Most Stone Dove bags are sewn with the lining left loose inside the bag so it can be lifted out for cleaning.

• Where possible, lift the lining up and out of the opening of the bag.

• Use a soft brush or sponge with a small amount of gentle soap and warm (not hot) water to scrub away any marks on the lining fabric.

• Pat the lining dry using a dry cloth or paper towel and allow to air dry naturally.

• When completely dry, re-insert the lining fabric back into the bag.

Storage

Both Leather and Waxed Canvas bags may lose their shape if they are stored for a long period of time. In order to avoid this, clean out your bag and let it air out before storage. 

• Fill your bag with dry, crumpled up brown paper or tissue paper, paying special attention to the corners. This will help to avoid creases and wrinkles forming during storage. 

• Store your bag in a cool, dry place, and in a dust bag or pillowcase if possible. Keep your stored bag out of direct sunlight.

• Avoid storing in a plastic bag or sealed containers. Allowing air to circulate freely will help prevent mould forming on the surface of the leather or canvas.