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from mypoupette.com:[/font]
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Having received many emails on how to clean and maintain Louis Vuitton items, I thought I would address this issue, here! [/font]
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Let me start by saying to clean or not to clean is a personal decision. Angie states in her Guide that she lets her bags "have a life of their own," but then she lives in Sunny California, where it never (or hardly ever) rains and she is super careful with her bags. I, too, let my bags have a life of their own for many years. What happened? Why did I change my mind?[/font]
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I hate water spots. Water spots on LV leather grate on my nerves like fingernails on a chalkboard! I started asking around, making some phone calls and emailing people. Louis Vuitton's staff graciously fielded my questions, in a manner befitting a politician. The only direct answer I got was to wipe Monogram/Damier canvas with a clean, damp cloth.[/font]
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They politely hedged on my leather cleaning questions, which is all they can do. They cannot recommended cleaning the leather at home, since that might require recommending products. Once they start recommending products, then there is the potential of angry customers returning with stories of how something went wrong when they followed LV's advice. So, I don't blame Louis Vuitton a bit. Now what?[/font]
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I have written about my personal care and cleaning of Monogram products only. I have not treated any other types of LV bags, but I am confident that my methods will work on Damier canvas, as well. I am not sure about Damier's dark brown leather.[/font]
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The products I use are the Apple Garde brand found at http://www.leatherstuff.com. This brand was recommended to me by one of Poupette's Recommended Sellers. I purchased the Leather Conditioner and Rain Repellent Spray. There is also an All-in-One Conditioner which I hear is very good. Now, I am not paid to endorse Apple Garde nor do I guarantee results. I just personally like the stuff.[/font]
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If you decide to use these goods, test the Leather Conditioner on an inconspicuous area first. Do not start this process if you feel rushed. If you are satisfied with your test area, then FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS TO THE LETTER. Don't apply the liquid directly onto the leather. Use a clean cloth. When I use the Leather Conditioner, I apply it to the monogram canvas too, even though it is not really necessary. I think it helps keep the canvas supple in areas that tend to crack as the bag ages--for example, both sides of the zipper on a Speedy. Let the bag dry according to the product's instructions. Then buff it with another clean cloth.[/font]
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If you decide to use the Rain Repellent, do so only after conditioning the bag. I spray in steady sweeping motions, so one area does not get more saturated than another. If sprayed too steadily in one area, it will stain! I don't trust myself on this step because I'm too heavy-handed. So I have to cheat!! I put my fist inside the bag, holding it at arm's length. In the other hand, I hold the spray, not pointing straight out, but at a slight upward angle. I sweep the bag through the spray while simultaneously twirling it for even coverage. I put on spray perfume in the same manner—spray the mist and then walk through it.[/font]
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I also treat drawstrings and my Pochette's strap. I only treat the smooth side of the drawstring. I have treated all of my LV bags and small pieces. The leather has not changed color because of it. I have noticed that my 1983 Noé is not aging as rapidly.[/font]
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Another tip to help protect your leather is during storage, undo all buckles and Noé straps, etc. This helps prevent buckle marks. When not in use, store your bags in dust covers or pillow cases. Plastic storage cases or dry cleaning bags are anathema to your bags. I no longer store my Speedys flat. Seems the canvas has a "memory" for creases. I stuff all of my bags with towels and my husband's old t-shirts.[/font]
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Feel free to post your questions or comments on Poupette's Bulletin Board! I look forward to hearing from you![/font]
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- Carol[/font]
and admittedly, this is the most expensive bag on my bag repetoire
. im a little anxious to know if i need to treat it with anything when i get it. i have two LV's which i use leather lotion on and am planning to get some of that apple gurad soon to waterproof them...but i was wondering if there is anything anyone would suggest doing to this bag, once i get it, to protect it...it is a lot of money, and i really want to treat it like a treasure....so any sort of advice anyone can give me, or if its okay to just take it and go...are there any MJ bag owners out there that can give me any care advice? anything would be greatly appreciated!
