How to Care For Waxed Canvas Bags_ The Dos and Don’ts
Anyone looking for durable and long-lasting bags should consider getting waxed canvas bags. Unlike traditional cotton and nylon materials, waxed canvas is treated with a waterproofing wax that keeps water and dirt out. It shrugs off the elements, keeping your belongings safe.
If you own one, you are in luck. The only thing you need to do is care for it to make the most of it. Here are the dos and don'ts when it comes to caring for a wax canvas bag.
What You Should Do
Caring for a wax canvas bag involves proper use. As with leather, you have to use your bag often to keep it looking good. That involves daily use to maintain the style and sharp lines. If you have a bag that you use only occasionally, expect it to develop creases and become harder to maintain. Wax canvas bags are durable, but they are not immortal.
If you have a bag that you use only occasionally, expect it to develop creases and get harder to maintain. Wax canvas bags are durable, but they are not immortal.
Spot cleaning is the best way to keep wax canvas bags clean. It’s best to do so with a wet cloth. You can also use a clean, soft toothbrush to clean out the linings.
Waxbeaters are a must-have for regular wear and tear. If your wax canvas bag starts getting stiff and sticky, re-wax it. It is better than letting it go to waste. Your bag will look new after you do so.
Apply a liberal coat of neatsfoot oil, and then wax with a mixture of beeswax and sperm oil. Apply the mixture with a brush using long, rhythmic strokes. The idea is to cover the entire surface evenly. Follow up with a coat of neatsfoot oil to seal it.
Rub marks and marks from car keys may look ugly, but they can be removed with a hairdryer. This method doesn't harm the bag, and it is convenient. It is best if you use a large-sized hairdryer so you can use it to dry your bag faster.
What Not to Do
Here is an obvious mistake that people make. You should never wash your wax canvas bag in a washing machine. The heat and the tumbling can damage the material. The hot water and drying cycles will cause the fabric to wrap and shrink. If you do this, you will regret it later on.
Ironing your wax canvas bag is a bad idea. The material is sturdy, and it can withstand a lot of abuse, but it is not indestructible. Using an iron is a sure way of destroying it. The heat of an iron can melt the material and warp it.
If you are going to store your wax canvas bag, place it where it will not be exposed to extreme temperatures. The wax will melt when exposed to heat and become sticky, and you don't want to use a bag like that. If you are not using your bag for a time, store it in a cool, dry place where it won't be exposed to light.
Conclusion
Caring for your wax canvas bag takes time and effort, but it is not difficult. Keep it away from extreme heat or cold, and you're good to go. Use spot cleaning and regular cleanings to prevent full-on cleaning. If you are using an oil-based leather conditioner, avoid that. Apply neatsfoot oil and a coat of beeswax, and you're good to go.
If you know how to take care of a wax canvas bag, you can look forward to years of continued use.
Make sure to purchase a quality waxed canvas bag from the start. Start browsing Troop London's site to find the best waxed canvas bag for you. We create exclusive, organic, and understated bags that can withstand the elements of today's busy, changing environment.