How to Keep Your Cork Bag Looking Its Best
One of the things I love about cork is how easy it is to care for. Cork is naturally water resistant and durable, so most everyday dirt, fingerprints, and small spills can be cleaned with just a few simple steps.
With a little care, your cork bag can stay beautiful for years.
Everyday Cleaning
For light dirt or everyday marks, dampen a soft cloth with water and a small amount of mild soap. Gently wipe the cork surface, then wipe again with a clean damp cloth if needed.
There's no need to scrub or use special leather cleaners.
Quick Touch-Ups
A gentle wet wipe works great for quick cleaning, especially when you're on the go. Simply wipe the cork surface gently and allow it to air dry.
If you're trying a new type of wipe or cleaning product, it's always a good idea to test it on a small, less-visible area first.
Let Your Bag Air Dry
After cleaning, simply allow your bag to air dry naturally at room temperature. Avoid using a hair dryer or placing your bag near direct heat.
Tough Stains or Ink
For a stubborn stain or ink mark, put a small amount of rubbing alcohol on a cotton ball and gently dab or wipe the affected area.
Use only a small amount and avoid saturating the cork or rubbing aggressively. Because cork colors and finishes can vary, test the rubbing alcohol on a small, inconspicuous area first.
What to Avoid
Although cork is naturally water resistant, don't soak or submerge your bag in water. Avoid bleach, harsh household cleaners, abrasive scrubbers, and excessive rubbing, as these can affect the surface or finish of the cork.
A Naturally Easy-Care Material
That's really all there is to it! Cork is wonderfully low maintenance and doesn't require the conditioners, polishes, or special treatments often used on other materials.
Every nest PURE bag is handcrafted in Minneapolis using beautiful cork from Portugal. Because cork is a natural material, slight variations in texture, pattern, and color are part of what makes each bag unique.
Hey! I wanted you to know that I cleaned my cork green & tan purse with a magic eraser & water and it looks great!
Being a potter and using this purse as my everyday bag it showed the wear. Now it looks fabulous and I’m taking it with me on my trip to Spain! Woo Hoo!
Hope to see you at Fall into the Arts 2026- maybe we’ll get booths next to each other again!