How to Clean a PVC Leather Handbag

How to Clean a PVC Leather Handbag
Written By
Dan Ketchum
Dan Ketchum
Published: Apr 6, 2011
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
2 minute read

Imitation leather PVC handbags are stain-resistant and don't require much care or maintenance. When the time comes to clean the bags, it only takes a few minutes and a handful of common household products. Clean your PVC handbag regularly to keep it looking new for years.

Things You Will Need

  • Mild laundry detergent
  • Sponge
  • Soft lint-free cloths
  • Automotive vinyl protectant
  • Fabric refresher
  1. Empty the handbag's contents to make cleaning easier.

  2. Add a splash of mild laundry detergent to a bowl of cold or lukewarm water. Dip a clean and non-abrasive sponge into the water, wring it out and gently rub the outer surface of your imitation leather PVC handbag. Rinse the sponge until it is free of detergent and dampen it with water. Wipe off any detergent residue from the PVC and thoroughly dry the bag with a clean dry cloth.

  3. Spray the handbag with a light mist of silicone-based automotive vinyl protectant, the kind used to clean auto interiors. Wipe the bag with a clean and dry lint-free cloth.

  4. Mist the inside lining of the handbag with a spray fabric refresher to keep it smelling fresh.

  5. Let your PVC handbag air dry until it is completely moisture-free. Replace the bag's contents only when it has dried completely.

The Drip Cap

  • Polymer polyvinyl chloride, commonly known as PVC, is mostly used in rubber products.
  • Imitation leather PVC handbags are stain-resistant and don't require much care or maintenance.
  • Spray the handbag with a light mist of silicone-based automotive vinyl protectant, the kind used to clean auto interiors.

Photo Credits

Stockbyte/Stockbyte/Getty Images

Stockbyte/Stockbyte/Getty Images

Sponsored
HomeSteady Logo

HomeSteady is the ultimate guide for all your household needs, from cleaning and HVAC to electrical, DIY and maintenance.

Property of TechnologyAdvice. © 2026 TechnologyAdvice. All Rights Reserved

Advertiser Disclosure: Some of the products that appear on this site are from companies from which TechnologyAdvice receives compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site including, for example, the order in which they appear. TechnologyAdvice does not include all companies or all types of products available in the marketplace.