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How to Clean Your Disney Dooney & Bourke Handbag

Your Disney Dooney & Bourke handbag isn’t just an accessory—it’s an investment in style. Whether you purchase them for everyday use or special occasions, there’s nothing worse than discovering spots and stains on your favorite bags. In this guide, we’ll delve into the essential steps for maintaining the pristine condition of your cherished Disney Dooney & Bourke purses, whether you are on your first Dooney & Bourke bag or have a whole collection. Regular cleaning and proper care are paramount to extend its lifespan and preserve its allure. Luckily, there are ways to clean Disney Dooney and Bourke bags and make every handbag in your collection last. 

Cleaning a Handbag

Photo from Cosmopolitan UK

Understanding Your Dooney & Bourke Purse

Knowing what type of Dooney & Bourke handbag you have is the first step in understanding the cleaning requirements of that particular bag. Dooney & Bourke purses are produced from a variety of different materials, including vacchetta leather, pebble leather, coated canvas, fabric, and more. Each material comes with its own unique texture and durability. Knowing the type of leather or material of your purse is crucial as it determines the appropriate cleaning method to maintain its condition. 

Gearing up for a Thorough cleaning – Essential Tools and Materials

When it comes to cleaning your beloved Disney Dooney & Bourke handbag, having the right tools and materials on hand is paramount. Let’s dive into the essential items you’ll need for your next Disney Dooney and Bourke purse cleaning session.

Necessary Tools and Materials

Prepare for your cleaning session by gathering the following items:

  • Clean, soft cloth
  • Distilled water or sodium-free seltzer water
  • Mild bar soap
  • Talcum powder
  • Clean, dry toothbrush

Using gentle, high-quality materials is crucial for maintaining the longevity and beauty of your Disney Dooney & Bourke purse and avoiding causing damage or discoloration to your favorite accessories. 

Pre-Cleaning Preparations

Before diving into your cleaning session, it’s essential to prepare your workspace and purse properly. Below are a few necessary steps to complete before starting.

  1. Setting Up Your Workspace 
    • Select a clean, flat surface with ample lighting to serve as your cleaning station. This will provide you with the optimal environment to meticulously clean your Disney Dooney & Bourke handbag.
  2. Removing Excess Items
    • Before beginning the cleaning process, remove any excess items from your purse. Clearing out clutter will not only make cleaning easier but also allow you to focus on treating stains and restoring the purse’s pristine condition.
  3. Conducting a Spot Test
    • Before applying any cleaning solutions to your handbag, it’s crucial to conduct a spot test on an inconspicuous area. This precautionary step helps prevent potential damage and ensures that the cleaning products are safe to use on your purse.

By following these pre-cleaning preparations diligently, you’ll set the stage for a successful cleaning session, ensuring that your handbag receives the care and attention it deserves.

Cleaning the Exterior of Your Dooney & Bourke Purse

Let’s explore step-by-step instructions for cleaning different types of materials.

Leather Collection

The leathers used to make Dooney & Bourke products, such as the Black Embossed Leather Sketch and the Disneyland 60th Anniversary Blue Leather handbags, are of the finest quality and usually require no creams, polishes, or cleaning for the lifetime of use. These leathers are also water-repellent and water-resistant. However, some leathers may become discolored when wet but will return to their original colors once completely dry. 

Disneyland 60th Anniversary Blue Leather Collection

Disneyland 60th Anniversary Blue Leather Collection

Similarly, the Vacchetta Leather used in some Dooney and Bourke handbags, such as the Passport Leather, is untreated leather. It naturally darkens over time with use and exposure to light. Vacchetta Leather does not require creams, polishes, or cleansers to maintain its beauty. 

Passport Leather Satchel Disneyland

Disneyland Passport Leather Satchel in Vacchetta Leather

To clean stained leather, you’ll need:

  • A soft cotton cloth
  • Mild bar soap
  • Distilled water (or sodium-free seltzer water)

Dampen the soft cotton cloth with distilled water or sodium-free seltzer water and a mild bar soap and apply it to the soiled leather in a circular motion. Repeat the process with the use of a soft cotton cloth and distilled water only until no residual soap remains. Then allow the bag to dry completely. 

The instructions may differ depending on the leather collection group. Consult your specific collection for more details on the care and cleaning of your Dooney & Bourke product.

The leathers used to make Dooney & Bourke products, such as  and handbags, are of the finest quality and usually require no creams, polishes, or cleaning for the lifetime of use. These leathers are also water repellent and water-resistant. However, some leathers may become discolored when wet but will return to their original colors once completely dry. 

Fabric Collection

In fabric collections, such as the Peace Love Mickey Denim and the Disney Cruise Line Stars Wars Blue Nylon, Dooney & Bourke uses fabric that is treated for water repellency. However, if the fabric or nylon bags get wet, you can bloat the bag using a clean white or light-colored cloth and then allow the fabric to dry completely. 

Peace Love Mickey Blue Denim Wristlet

Peace Love Mickey Blue Denim Wristlet

For simple spot cleaning, you’ll need:

  • A soft cotton cloth
  • Mild bar soap
  • Distilled water (or sodium-free seltzer water)

Dampen the soft cotton cloth with distilled water or sodium-free seltzer water and a bar of mild bar soap and apply it to the soiled fabric in a circular motion. Repeat the process with distilled water only until no residual soap remains. Then allow the bag to dry completely. 

For oily spots, first wipe the material free of excess liquid. Next, sprinkle talcum powder on the area and allow it to briefly set in. Using a dry toothbrush, gently brush away the powder to clean the fabric.  

The instructions may differ depending on the material and trim of your handbag. Consult your specific collection for more details on the care and cleaning of your Dooney & Bourke product.

In fabric collections such as  and , Dooney & Bourke uses fabric that is treated for water repellency. However, if the handbag gets wet, you can bloat the bag using a clean white or light-colored cloth and then allow the fabric to dry completely. 

Coated Canvas

The coated canvas fabric used for the 10th Anniversary Disney SketchDisney Dogs, and the majority of Disney Dooney & Bourke collections are generally water-repellent and soil-repellent. If your handbag becomes soiled, clean it with a soft cotton cloth or toothbrush, distilled water, and mild bar soap. Gently apply it to the fabric in a circular motion and repeat with distilled water only until no residual soap remains. Allow the fabric to dry completely. 

 

 

Sketch 2018 Satchel in Coated Cotton

Sketch 2018 Satchel in Coated Cotton

The instructions may differ depending on the material and trim of your handbag. Consult your specific collection for more details on the care and cleaning of your Dooney & Bourke product. When in doubt, contact Dooney & Bourke Customer Care directly.

Cleaning the Interior of Your Dooney & Bourke Purse

Maintaining the interior of your Disney Dooney & Bourke handbag is just as important as caring for the exterior. Here’s how to effectively clean the interior lining while preserving its integrity.

To clean the interior lining:

  • Dampen a clean cloth with a mild soap solution.
  • Gently wipe the interior fabric, paying attention to any areas with visible dirt or stains.
  • Avoid saturating the fabric excessively to prevent damage.

For stubborn stains and odors:

  • Apply a small amount of mild soap directly to the affected area.
  • Use a gentle scrubbing motion with a damp cloth to lift the stain or odor.
  • Repeat as necessary until the stain or odor is removed, taking care not to damage the fabric.

After cleaning, it’s crucial to allow the interior to air dry completely. This prevents mildew or mold growth, ensuring the longevity of your handbag’s interior fabric.

We’ve explored essential cleaning techniques and maintenance tips to ensure the longevity and pristine condition of your beloved Disney Dooney & Bourke handbag. Regular cleaning using gentle methods and appropriate materials is paramount for preserving the quality of your luxury purse.

By incorporating these cleaning techniques into your routine, you can safeguard your handbag against dirt, stains, and other environmental factors that may compromise its allure. Remember to conduct spot tests, use gentle circular motions, and allow for thorough drying to maintain both the exterior and interior of your purse.

We cannot overstate the importance of proper maintenance in prolonging the lifespan of your Dooney & Bourke handbag. As you embark on your cleaning journey, we encourage you to make these techniques a regular part of your routine. By doing so, you’ll not only protect your investment but also ensure that your handbag continues to bring joy for years to come.

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Susan Fullam

Friday 23rd of September 2022

I have a "vinyl" coated bag/with red cloth lining ..large so I can use it as a work carryall..a water bottle which was in the bag had a slight leak, the lining material got wet and seeped and stained the outer covering of the bag...do you have any suggestions as to how to clean it... thank you in advance

Mary Jane

Monday 9th of August 2021

I have a Large Hobo # 349412657 And need a cleaner. Please suggest. I also have a few scratches please advise. Thank you!

JoJo

Wednesday 5th of May 2021

I have what feels like a cotton change purse & it has leather all along the top w/ red satin interior.

The white has gotten dirty & I am unsure how to clean it.

Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Miah

Thursday 16th of June 2022

@JoJo, same situation with mine. It’s pink and white

Linda Mannone

Saturday 26th of September 2020

How do I clean my dooney & burke purse or should I send it to be cleaned?

Gina

Monday 1st of June 2020

What about the nylon bags? I have an older DCL print bag that is a nylon material that I have no idea how to clean