The Best Way to Remove Dirt and Stains While Keeping the Patina Intact
A good leather bag isn’t just something you own, it’s something you break in, wear in, and let evolve with time. Every scratch, scuff, and mark tells a story—but let’s be real, sometimes that story involves too much dirt, an unexpected coffee spill, or a stain that needs to go.
The problem? Most people either baby their leather too much or destroy it trying to clean it.
At Untundra, we make full-grain leather bags, wallets, and gear designed to take a beating, but even the toughest leather needs proper care. If you want to clean your bag without wrecking its rich patina or drying it out, follow this guide.
1. The Basics: When & How to Clean Your Leather
Your Untundra Leather Bag doesn’t need daily scrubbing. Leather is tough—it was made to handle life, but when it starts looking grimy or loses that deep, rugged sheen, it’s time for some simple maintenance.
• Light Cleaning – Every couple of weeks, just wipe your bag down with a soft, dry cloth to remove surface dust.
• Deep Cleaning – Every few months, use a proper leather cleaner (never household soap) to remove built-up grime.
• Stain Treatment – Address spills and marks immediately before they set in.
Leather thrives with regular care—just don’t overdo it.
2. What You’ll Need
Forget about chemical-laden cleaners that strip away the good oils. Stick with natural, leather-friendly tools:
✅ A soft microfiber cloth – For wiping down dust and grime.
✅ Untundra Leather Balm – To restore moisture and keep the leather supple.
✅ A quality leather cleaner – Mild, pH-balanced formulas work best.
✅ A soft-bristle brush – Helps loosen dirt in creases and seams.
✅ Distilled water – Tap water contains minerals that can stain leather over time.
3. The Right Way to Clean Leather
Step 1: Wipe Away Surface Dust & Dirt
Start with a dry microfiber cloth and gently wipe down the leather. This prevents dirt from being ground into the grain when you apply cleaner.
Step 2: Apply Leather Cleaner
• Dampen a soft cloth with a little distilled water—never soak the leather.
• Add a small amount of leather cleaner to the cloth.
• Work it in light, circular motions, covering the entire surface evenly.
• Use a dry cloth to wipe off excess cleaner.
Avoid scrubbing too hard, leather isn’t a gym floor. Let the cleaner do the work.
4. Dealing With Stains (Without Wrecking the Leather)
Water Stains
Ironically, water can stain leather if it dries unevenly. The fix?
✅ Lightly dampen the entire surface so it dries evenly.
✅ Let it air dry—no heat, no hairdryers, no direct sunlight.
Grease & Oil Stains
That burger didn’t just leave a mark on your napkin? No problem.
✅ Dab (don’t rub) with a dry microfiber cloth to soak up excess oil.
✅ Let the stain absorb into the leather over time—rubbing too much can spread it.
✅ If it lingers, a little cornstarch or baking soda can help absorb the oil overnight.
Ink Stains
If your leather bag and your pen had a disagreement, act fast.
✅ Lightly dab rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab and blot the stain.
✅ Don’t rub! This can spread the ink deeper into the leather.
✅ Follow up with leather conditioner to restore moisture.
Mud & Dirt
Dried mud? Don’t panic.
✅ Let it dry completely before cleaning.
✅ Use a soft-bristle brush to break it up.
✅ Wipe clean with a damp cloth and finish with leather conditioner.
5. Conditioning: The Secret to Keeping Leather Looking Its Best
Cleaning is just one part of leather care, conditioning is what keeps it from drying out, cracking, or looking lifeless.
After cleaning, apply a thin, even coat of Untundra Leather Balm using a soft cloth. This restores natural oils, protects against future stains, and keeps your leather looking rugged, rich, and ready for more adventures.
Let it sit for an hour, then buff lightly with a dry cloth for a smooth, natural finish.
What NOT to Do (Unless You Want to Ruin Your Leather)
❌ No harsh soaps or detergents – They strip away oils, leaving leather dry and brittle.
❌ No soaking in water – Leather absorbs water like a sponge, which weakens the structure.
❌ No direct heat or sunlight – Drying leather too fast can cause it to warp or crack.
❌ No baby wipes or vinegar – These might seem gentle, but they contain chemicals that harm leather over time.
Leather Built to Last—If You Treat It Right
Your Untundra Bravo Backpack, Leather Duffle, or Wallet isn’t just an accessory—it’s a lifetime companion. With the right care, it won’t just survive, it’ll age beautifully, gain character, and become even better with time.
Treat it right, and it’ll be with you for the long haul.
Want to keep your leather gear in top shape? Grab a tin of Untundra Leather Balm and keep your gear adventure-ready.