I was having a clear out recently and I came across an old handbag that I designed around 10 years ago. I used to use this bag all the time but then it got put away and it was a lovely surprise to find it again. Although I’d kept it in it’s dust bag, the top of the bag looked dirty, so I decided to wash it.

What to wash and what not to wash!

Back in 2002 to 2005 (ish), I was using a lot of great nylon and polyester fabrics, most of which, wash really well. Even though these handbag design have leather trim and metal loops and magnets etc, many of them can be gently washed. If you still have one of these bags but have put it to one side because it now looks a bit old and dirty, I would recommend washing it to give it a new lease of life.

I put my bag on it’s own, in the washing maching at 30C (or cold wash), on a silk or handwash cycle, with a little washing powder and a little softener. Make sure the spin cycle is on a low number (600-800). Once it’s washed, re-shape if needed when it’s wet and hang it in a warm dry place (eg airing cupboard or a warm room) for 24 hours to let it dry completely. Do not try and speed up drying….keep away from radiators and DO NOT IRON!

If you have one of my older fabric handbag designs and want to know if it’s one that can be washed, please send me a photo of it and I’ll let you know. You can email the photo to [email protected] or post it on our Facebook page.

If you have an old bag that’s still looking good, I love to see a photo of it!