Vera Bradley handbags are renowned for their vibrant patterns and functionality. Each design exudes a playful charm, blending style with practicality. Crafted with quality materials, they offer ample storage and versatility for everyday use. From totes to crossbodies, Vera Bradley handbags are an expression of individuality and effortless elegance.
Vera Bradley’s collaboration with Disney infuses its signature designs with beloved characters and iconic motifs. These collections add a whimsical touch, delighting fans with a blend of nostalgia and style.
While owning a Vera Bradley handbag is exciting to most, some worry about keeping their beloved purses clean and looking pristine.
Vera Bradley purses need special care, and in this guide, you will learn how to wash a Vera Bradley purse with cardboard to retain its quality.
Step-by-step Guide on How to Wash Vera Bradley Purse with Cardboard
Though Vera Bradley purses with cardboard inserts are delicate, the good news is that they’re easy to clean. You only need to follow the washing instructions provided by the manufacturer and this guide to safely clean them.
For best results, be gentle and never use harsh chemicals when washing Vera Bradley bags or purses to avoid damaging them.
The correct washing method maintains the quality and longevity of your Vera Bradley bags and the integrity of their cardboard.
What you will need to clean your Vera Bradley purse:
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Mild detergent or vinegar
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Clean, lint-free, soft cloth
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Soft-bristled brush
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Clean water
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Scotchgard
Follow the steps below to clean your Vera Bradley purse.
Step 1: Remove the Vera Bradley bag cardboard inserts
To avoid damaging the purse, and if your purse has a slit, remove the cardboard bases. Removing the cardboard is vital in ensuring that they don’t get damaged during the washing process and that the purse’s structure remains intact. Also, removing the inserts makes the washing process stress-free.
If your purse does not have a slit to remove the cardboard base, it is recommended that you spot clean only.
Here’s how to remove the cardboard bottom from the purse.
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Open your purse and locate the slit to remove the cardboard by hand.
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Remove the cardboard inserts from the bottom of the bag firmly but gently to avoid damaging or tearing the fabric.
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Clean the inserts separately after removing them.
The next step is to dust the purse to remove dirt and debris. During this process, inspect the bag’s condition to determine if you need to wash it or just spot-clean.
Step 2: Check the care label
Check the purse’s washing tag to determine whether it should be hand-washed or machine-washed. If you can’t find any care instructions, check the Vera Bradley website.
Don’t start washing the purse until you are sure of the proper method.
Step 3: Protect the Straps and Vera Bradley Purse Fabric
Excess water damages the straps and fabric. Protect them by waterproofing or using protective covers.
Below are the best protective measures for different fabric types.
Type of Fabric |
Best Protective Measure |
Leather |
Leather conditioner |
Cotton |
Treatment or waterproofing spray |
Nylon |
Mild detergent (Handwashing) |
Polyester |
Gentle spot cleaning |
Step 4: Do Spot Cleaning
First things first: If the purse has stains, add a tiny drop of gentle detergent or vinegar to a cup of cold water.
Use a soft-bristled brush to spot clean. Never use bleach even on stubborn stains. Pre-treatment of stubborn stains can be done using gentle dish soap or detergent.
Massage the spot using a soft-bristled brush or finger, then allow it to sit for about 30 minutes.
Use cold water to flush the area to eliminate the suds. Otherwise, use a damp, lint-free cloth to remove any soapy residue from the fabric.
Step 5: Hand wash or machine wash the purse
You can gently handwash the purse, but if it’s machine washable, use the latter to ease the cleaning process.
Follow these simple steps when using a washing machine:
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Close all of the zippers
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Use cold water, add white vinegar or mild detergent
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Wash on the gentle cycle.
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Use a slow spin to machine wash the purse.
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Pat the purse against a clean cotton towel to remove excess water. Don’t twist or wring the purse, you’ll damage it
Step 6: Dry your purse indoors after the washing process
Use a clothes hanger to dry your Vera Bradley purse indoors. Ensure that there’s good airflow in the room to prevent the purse from taking a long time to dry. This protects the purse from mold spores.
Exposing the purse to harsh heat sources such as direct sunlight or dryers damages its fabric and colorful patterns.
Open all the purse’s compartments and zippers to ensure proper air circulation to speed up the drying process.
Step 7: Use Scotchgard
When you order a new bag in the future, the best way to protect it from stains is to use a Scotchgard. Scotchguarding could save you the trouble of having to clean your Vera Bradley bag often, guaranteeing its durability.
Step 8: Reinsert the cardboard
Once the purse is completely dry, reinsert the stiff piece of cardboard to restore its structure and shape. Fluff any flattened areas. Be gentle not to break it.
Recap
Pay careful attention to the manufacturer’s washing tag instructions when washing your Vera Bradley purse with cardboard. Proper care when washing retains the structural support that the cardboard inserts provide, preserving the purse’s original appearance and quality.
Whether you’re spot cleaning to remove stains, hand washing, or machine washing with mild detergents, strictly follow the manufacturer’s washing instructions.
Always remove the cardboard inserts before washing and add them back once the purse is completely dry.
Avoid exposing your Vera Bradley purse to direct sunlight when drying; dry it indoors in a well-ventilated area.