LOUIS VUITTON 101: CARING FOR CANVAS
Posted onAs a classic symbol of Louis Vuitton, the coated canvas is a material synonymous with the brand's reputation. The material was created in 1896 and speaks to the House's savoir-faire in luxury craftsmanship. Inimitable and unique, the coated canvas is supple and sturdy, making it ideal for travellers' favourites such as the Speedy and Neverfull.
Coated with a layer of polyvinylchloride, a Louis Vuitton canvas bag is durable and resistant to heat, water, and most chemicals. Generally tougher than all-leather bags, Louis Vuitton's canvas bags can last up to many years with proper care and delicate treatment.
Below, we've rounded up the Dos and Don'ts for caring for your Louis Vuitton canvas bag.
Dos
- Clean with a damp cloth and slightly soapy water to wipe down the canvas.
- Micellar water and baby wipes are gentle cleaning alternatives you can use as well.
- Condition your bag every 6 – 12 months (or depending on how often you use your LV canvas bag). To prevent cracking, we recommend using apple conditioner cream and cadillac lotion.
- Make sure to apply gentle pressure.
- Keep your bags away from highly pigmented items that risk colour transfers. The lighter-coloured Damier Azur is especially prone to such wear.
- Use a pencil eraser to rub the stain softly to remove stains caused by scuff marks, water stains, or colour transfers. If the stain is stubborn, you may need to use a leather cleaner or conditioner.
- Store the bag properly in a dark, cool place. For unstructured bags that tend to flop over, place some tissue or clothing inside the bag.
- Protect the lining of your bag with a bag insert or liner. Not only will they improve the shape of your bag when in use and storage, they can also protect the interior of your bag from dirt and stains.
Don'ts
- Use home remedies like leather lotions, cleaners, chemicals, fragrances, or mink oil on your bags.
- Use toothbrushes or any rough bristles to clean your bags. The prints on the monogram-printed canvases may rub off if you do this regularly.
- Do not use bleach, acetone, or alcohol on your bag, as these chemicals can damage or discolour the material.
- Fold the bag. While canvas is typically strong and durable, folding increases the chances of cracking.
- Overstuff or carry extremely heavy items in your bag.
- Expose the bag to direct sunlight. The canvas may become brittle from the heat due to sitting in sunlight often.
There you have it! A list of things to do and avoid to take proper care of your Louis Vuitton canvas bag. Your precious Louis Vuitton investment will last for many years with these proper care and techniques.
