Home|Polène Leather Care
Care Guide 2026
Polène Leather Care
How to clean, condition, protect, and store your Polène bag. Proper care extends the life of full-grain calfskin significantly.
Before First Use
Before carrying your Polène bag for the first time, apply a leather water repellent spray. Spray from about 30 cm distance, coat the entire exterior evenly, and allow to dry for at least 30 minutes. This creates an invisible barrier that repels light rain and spills without affecting the leather's appearance or feel.
Do not use suede sprays or multi-surface waterproofing products. Use a product specifically designed for smooth calfskin leather. Good options include Collonil Carbon Lab or Cadillac Select.
Regular Care Routine
Weekly
Wipe down with a soft dry cloth
Remove surface dust and light transfer marks. Microfibre cloths work well and will not scratch the leather surface.
Monthly
Condition with leather cream
Apply a small amount of colourless leather conditioner to a clean cloth and work it into the leather in circular motions. This keeps the calfskin supple and prevents drying or cracking.
Every 3 months
Reapply water repellent
Reapply the protective water repellent spray. The protection diminishes over time with regular use.
When wet
Dry naturally
If the bag gets wet, blot excess water gently with a dry cloth and allow to dry naturally at room temperature. Do not use a hairdryer or place near a radiator — concentrated heat will dry out and crack the leather.
Storage
When not in use, store your Polène bag in the original branded dust bag. Stuff the interior with acid-free tissue paper or a bag insert to help the leather retain its shape. Keep the bag upright in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight — UV exposure can fade and dry out leather over time.
Avoid storing leather bags in plastic bags or airtight containers. Leather is a natural material that needs to breathe — trapping it in an airtight environment can cause it to dry out, smell musty, or develop mildew in humid conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I clean a Polène bag?
For surface dust and light dirt, use a soft dry cloth. For stains, use a slightly damp cloth with a very small amount of mild saddle soap. Work in gentle circular motions and allow to dry naturally away from direct heat. Do not use household detergents or alcohol-based cleaners.
Can you waterproof a Polène bag?
Yes. Apply a leather-specific water repellent spray before first use. Spray from 30 cm, allow to dry fully, then buff gently. Reapply every few months or after getting the bag wet. Use a product designed for smooth calfskin — not suede sprays.
How do you store a Polène bag?
Store your Polène bag in the original dust bag, stuffed with acid-free tissue paper to maintain its shape. Keep it upright in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing in plastic bags or airtight containers, which can cause leather to dry out.