Product Care

Our Leather

We use high-quality leather and place value on its natural qualities. Each bag is made from carefully selected material with a soft feel and a durable structure suited for everyday use. As a natural material, leather may vary in colour and texture. Subtle marks – such as scars or small irregularities like insect bites – can remain visible and are part of its character. Over time, the leather develops a patina and changes with use. We design our bags to be worn and used over many years. Like any high-quality material, leather benefits from occasional care. With regular, mindful handling, your INA KENT bag can become a long-term companion.

General instructions for use and care

Use
To ensure lasting enjoyment of your INA KENT bag, we recommend protecting it from contact with oily substances, solvents, and extreme weather conditions. This includes heat, direct sunlight, high humidity, rain, or cold. Prolonged or intense exposure can affect the colour and surface, leading to visible signs of wear.

Avoid contact with sharp objects, rough surfaces, or materials that may transfer colour pigments. If the look or feel of your bag changes due to external influences, we recommend consulting a specialized leather professional.

Leather Care
For the care of our foiled and embossed leathers, we recommend the Leather Care Kit by The Handbag Clinic. For smooth leather, eco buffalo leather, and sprayed finishes, we suggest the Leather Care and Impregnating Oil by Leder-Fein. These products can be applied before first use and regularly thereafter on all suitable surfaces. They act as an intensive treatment, offering protection and conditioning with regular use while helping to prevent the leather from drying out or becoming soiled. Please always follow the manufacturers’ instructions.
Avoid using conventional sprays or leather fats, as these may cause permanent damage to the surface. If you are unsure whether a product is suitable, feel free to contact us by email. We recommend applying protection from the very beginning, as this provides the most effective defense against external influences. Once stains have penetrated the material, they can usually only be removed by specialized professionals – prevention is therefore essential. Should cleaning still be necessary, we recommend consulting a leather specialist.

For suede items, we currently do not offer a dedicated care product. However, please use only products specifically made for suede leather.

Three INA KENT leather care products and two white sponges are arranged on a black fabric background. The set includes a bottle of oil, plus bottles labeled "leather cleaner" and "protector.

Cleaning
Some surfaces are more sensitive than others. As a general rule, keeping your bag clean and gently maintaining it will help preserve it over time. Use a soft, slightly damp cotton or microfiber cloth for cleaning. Apply only minimal pressure and avoid rubbing the surface to prevent damage. The cloth should be lightly damp, not wet. If the bag comes into contact with water or other liquids, gently dab the area with a dry cotton cloth as soon as possible to minimize absorption and prevent water marks.

For our foiled leathers (Metallic, Crackled, Two-tone, Rainbow, Film, Eco Honeycomb), we additionally recommend the Leather Care Kit  set by The Handbag Clinic, which is specifically suited to these surfaces and provides added protection. 

Storage
When not in use, we recommend storing your INA KENT bag in the dust bag provided. This helps protect the surface from accidental damage and exposure to light. To help maintain its shape, you may fill the bag with a soft material while it is stored. Close all zippers and wrap the straps in tissue paper to prevent marks from forming. Make sure that no heavy objects are placed on top of the bag.

Title
Detailed care instructions
Text (Body)

Within our product range, you'll find various surfaces and leather types, each requiring specific care and handling. We advise closely adhering to the provided instructions tailored to the particular leather type of your item for optimal care and maintenance.

Collapsible

Metallic / Two-tone / Film / Crackled / Rainbow / Reptile

Our foiled and/or embossed leathers are created through a multi-step process. Using heat and pressure, one or more ultra-thin foils are applied to the leather. Depending on the product, the surface is further refined using laser, embossing, or rollers to achieve effects such as Crackled, reptile textures, or holographic finishes. These processes alter the natural grain of the hide.

The applied foil already provides a certain level of protection against external influences such as moisture and fading. Nevertheless, we recommend protecting your bag from environmental factors and drying out. Over time, foiled leathers may become more matte; particularly Metallic and Crackled surfaces can develop a slightly powdery appearance, allowing the leather base to become more visible.

For regular, gentle cleaning, use a soft, slightly damp cotton or microfiber cloth and carefully dry the surface afterwards. For additional care, we recommend the Leather Care Kit by The Handbag Clinic. Ideally, apply the Protection Cream before first use in a thin, even layer to build a protective barrier.

If needed, the surface can be gently cleaned with the Leather Cleaner as part of your care routine. After cleaning, we recommend reapplying the Protection Cream to maintain protection. Allow the bag to dry for approximately 20–30 minutes after application. Depending on use, this treatment can be repeated regularly.

To best protect your INA KENT bag, please note the following:

  • Do not use conventional leather fats or waterproofing sprays, as these may contain alcohol or other solvents that can damage the surface.
  • Avoid contact with materials that may transfer colour pigments.
  • Avoid contact with sharp objects and rough surfaces.
  • Avoid contact with water.
  • Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, as this may cause the colour to fade.
  • Do not use soaps or solvents for cleaning. Light soiling can be wiped away with a slightly damp cloth. 

For more significant stains, we recommend consulting a professional leather specialist.

Silky silvery almond / Silky mud gold

Our bags made from sprayed metallic leather are crafted from minimally treated Sauvage leather, finished with a thin layer of colour applied to the surface. This sprayed finish already provides a certain level of protection against external influences such as moisture and fading. With use, the leather develops a matte, slightly powdery surface.

To ensure lasting enjoyment of your bag, we recommend treating it with a suitable leather care product before first use and periodically thereafter.

Before first use, clean your bag with a soft, dry cotton cloth to remove any dust or particles. Then treat the leather with Leder-Fein Leather Care and Impregnating Oil. Apply a small amount to a clean sponge, viscose cloth, or soft microfiber cloth and gently dab it evenly across the entire surface. Ensure an even distribution and avoid applying pressure. Allow the bag to dry for approximately 20–30 minutes. This treatment can be repeated once or twice a year.

To best protect your INA KENT bag, please note the following:

  • Do not use conventional leather fats or waterproofing sprays, as these may contain alcohol or other solvents that can damage the surface.
  • Avoid contact with sharp objects and rough surfaces.
  • Avoid contact with water.
  • Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, as this may cause the colour to fade.
  • Avoid contact with materials that may transfer colour pigments.
  • You can clean your sprayed metallic leather bag with a soft, slightly damp microfiber or cotton cloth. Avoid applying pressure to prevent scratches or marks. Do not use soaps or solvents.

For more significant stains, we recommend consulting a professional leather specialist.

Natural / Pure

These are surface-pigmented smooth leathers. The pigment layer provides light protection.

Before first use, clean your bag with a soft, dry cotton cloth to remove any dust or particles. Then treat the leather with Leather Care and Impregnating Oil. Apply a small amount to a clean sponge, viscose cloth, or soft microfiber cloth and distribute it evenly across the entire surface without applying pressure. Ensure an even application.

Depending on the amount applied, the colour of the leather may temporarily darken slightly. Allow the bag to dry for approximately 20–30 minutes until it returns to its original tone. This treatment can be repeated once or twice a year.

Alternatively, the Leather Care Kit by The Handbag Clinic is also suitable for these leathers. However, based on our long-standing experience with open-pore smooth leathers, we recommend Leder-Fein Leather Care & Protection Oil as the preferred option.

Please use only care products recommended by us or by leather specialists. Conventional, oil- or fat-based products may cause darkening or uneven colouration.

To best protect your INA KENT bag, please note the following:

  • Do not use conventional waterproofing sprays, as these may contain alcohol or other solvents that can damage the surface.
  • Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, as this may cause the colour to fade.
  • Avoid contact with sharp objects and rough surfaces.
  • Avoid contact with water.
  • Avoid contact with materials that may transfer colour pigments.
  • Do not use soaps or solvents for cleaning. Light soiling can be carefully dabbed with a slightly damp cloth.

For more significant stains, we recommend consulting a professional leather specialist.

Patent inked 

In the production of our patent leather, the natural grain surface is coated with a high-gloss, mirror-smooth film. Patent leather is protected against moisture and drying out. Its high lightfastness helps prevent fading and provides a slight protective effect. Nevertheless, we recommend protecting your bag from environmental influences and cleaning it regularly. No additional conditioning is required.

To best protect your INA KENT bag, please note the following:

  • Avoid contact with sharp objects and rough surfaces.
  • Avoid contact with water.
  • Do not use oils, fats, or conventional waterproofing sprays, as these may contain alcohol or other solvents that can damage the surface.
  • Clean your patent leather bag from time to time with a soft, slightly damp microfiber or cotton cloth. Avoid applying pressure to prevent scratches or marks. Do not use soaps or solvents.

For more significant stains, we recommend consulting a professional leather specialist.

Suede gingery cognac, suede dark chocolate

Our suede leather is defined by its soft, velvety surface and natural depth. To preserve this distinctive feel, the leather remains intentionally open-pored and untreated. The nap responds visibly to touch and direction – depending on how the surface is brushed, its alignment shifts, subtly altering the colour perception. With use and changing light, the structure may evolve further. The surface becomes more alive, and the material’s natural character comes more clearly into view.

Velour leather is more delicate than smooth leather. Friction, moisture, or frequent use may lead to changes in the surface, slight roughening, or gentle abrasion. Dust and lint can also settle more easily due to the open structure. These effects are inherent to the material and part of suede’s characteristic appearance.

We use only high-quality leather. Still, velour leather reacts sensitively to external influences. Over time, the nap may smooth out or become slightly compacted, and light pressure or shine marks may appear – a natural process that gives each piece its own character.

As suede leather is processed without a protective pigment layer or sealing, small amounts of excess dye may be released, particularly during initial use. When in contact with light-colored clothing, moisture, or friction, slight colour transfer may occur, especially with darker shades. With continued use, this effect typically decreases as excess pigments stabilize within the material. Any colour residue can usually be removed, depending on the fabric and colour of the textile.

Before first use, we recommend applying a protector specifically developed for suede, such as the Suede Protector by Furniture Clinic. This helps protect the material against moisture and stains. Always test on an inconspicuous area first. We recommend reapplying the protection regularly – approximately every three months. Before reapplication, the leather should be thoroughly brushed; in case of light soiling, a dedicated suede cleaner can be used additionally.

To best protect your INA KENT bag, please note the following:

  • Avoid use in rain, snow, or high humidity – water may cause permanent marks or so-called “water stains,” especially on lighter colors.
  • Keep away from heat and direct sunlight, as this may dry out or fade the leather.
  • Minimize friction and contact with rough surfaces, as these can flatten or permanently alter the nap.
  • Handle the bag with clean, dry hands whenever possible.
  • Avoid contact with colour-transfer materials, as the open surface absorbs pigments more easily.
  • Store in a breathable cotton dust bag – never airtight or in plastic, as moisture can build up. For longer storage, loosely fill the bag with paper (avoid newspaper) to help maintain its shape.
  • Before first use, we recommend applying a suede protector such as the Suede Protector by Furniture Clinic, which helps protect against moisture and stains.
  • Before each further application, ensure the leather is clean, dry, and free from dust and lint. For light soiling (dust, lint, dry particles), gently brush with a soft suede brush – ideally in one direction and without pressure – to lift the nap and remove surface debris. This helps prevent particles from being fixed into the surface by the protector.
  • For careful cleaning of light soiling, a suitable suede or nubuck cleaner can be used: always apply it to a microfiber cloth, not directly onto the leather, and work in gentle circular motions without pressure. Allow to dry thoroughly, then lightly brush to restore the texture.
  • Alternatively, a suede or nubuck eraser can be used to treat dry stains, shine marks, or light abrasion locally.

For more significant signs of wear or if in doubt, we recommend consulting a specialized leather professional.

Eco buffalo / Eco base black

These leathers are skin-friendly and vegetable-tanned. Please note that our Eco leather articles may show slight variations in colour (lighter or darker areas), as natural dyes are not always absorbed evenly.

With use, the leather develops a natural patina, which offers a degree of protection against light wear and environmental influences. Minor scratches can often be gently rubbed out with your fingers. To ensure lasting enjoyment of your bag, we recommend treating it with a suitable leather care product before first use and periodically thereafter.

Before first use, clean your bag with a soft, dry cotton cloth to remove any dust or particles. Then treat the leather with Leather Care and Impregnating Oil. Apply a small amount to a clean sponge, viscose cloth, or soft microfiber cloth and distribute it evenly across the entire surface without applying pressure. Ensure an even application.

Depending on the amount applied, the colour of the leather may temporarily darken. Allow the bag to dry for approximately 20–30 minutes until it returns to its original tone. This treatment can be repeated from time to time.

To best protect your INA KENT bag, please note the following:

  • Please use only care products recommended by us or by leather specialists. Conventional, oil- or fat-based products may cause darkening or uneven colouration.
  • Do not use conventional waterproofing sprays, as these may contain alcohol or other solvents that can damage the surface.
  • Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, as this may cause the colour to fade.
  • Avoid contact with water.
  • Avoid contact with sharp objects and rough surfaces.
  • Avoid contact with materials that may transfer colour pigments.
  • Please note that darker tones may release a small amount of pigment during use and may transfer colour onto lighter garments. These stains can usually be removed by pre-treating with a mild soap solution before washing.
  • Do not use soaps or solvents for cleaning. Light soiling can be carefully dabbed with a slightly damp cloth. 

For more significant stains, we recommend consulting a professional leather specialist.

Eco honeycomb / Eco croc / Eco antique

Our foiled and/or embossed leathers are created through a multi-step process. Using heat and pressure, one or more ultra-thin foils are applied to the leather. Depending on the product, the surface is further refined using laser, embossing, or rollers to achieve effects such as Crackled, reptile textures, or Honeycomb. These processes alter the natural grain of the hide.

For our Eco honeycomb, Eco croc and Eco antique leathers, we exclusively use vegetable-tanned leather.

The applied foil already provides a certain level of protection against external influences such as moisture and fading. Nevertheless, we recommend protecting your bag from environmental factors and drying out. For care, we recommend the Leather Care Kit by The Handbag Clinic. Ideally, apply the Protection Cream before first use to build a protective layer that helps prevent dirt and stains. If needed, the surface can be gently cleaned with the Leather Cleaner. After cleaning, we recommend reapplying the Protection Cream to maintain protection. For lasting care, this routine can be repeated regularly depending on use.

For Eco croc and Eco antique metallic styles, we recommend treating the leather with a leather care and protection oil. Apply a small amount to a clean sponge, viscose cloth, or soft microfibre cloth and distribute it evenly across the entire surface without applying pressure. Ensure an even application. Depending on the amount applied, the colour may temporarily darken. Allow the bag to dry for approximately 20–30 minutes until it returns to its original tone. This treatment can be repeated once or twice a year.

To best protect your INA KENT bag, please note the following:

  • Do not use conventional leather fats or waterproofing sprays, as these may contain alcohol or other solvents that can damage the surface.
  • Avoid contact with materials that may transfer colour pigments.
  • Avoid contact with sharp objects and rough surfaces.
  • Avoid contact with water.
  • Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, as this may cause the colour to fade.
  • Do not use soaps or solvents for cleaning. Light soiling can be wiped away with a slightly damp cloth.

For more significant stains, we recommend consulting a professional leather specialist.

Eco vachetta black / Eco vachetta brown / Eco vachetta dark grey

All of our strap leathers are skin-friendly and vegetable-tanned. We use so-called vacchetta leather or a combination of vacchetta and soft pocket leather. Vacchetta is a special form of vegetable-tanned cowhide leather that keeps its natural feel. It softens over time and acquires a natural patina. With time and use, the leather develops a natural patina, which protects the leather from external environmental conditions. No special care is required. To ensure maximum comfort when carried, the edges of all of our shoulder straps are dyed.

  • Please be aware that dark-coloured items may release a small amount of pigment during use, which could potentially stain light-coloured garments. If such discolourations occur, they can typically be removed by pre-treating the affected areas with soapy water before washing them as usual.
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Former Leather Qualities
Text (Body)

Some of our earlier leather qualities are no longer part of our current collection. For those who already own an item made from these materials, we continue to share this information as a service.

Collapsible

Rosewood / Chestnut 

Aniline leather has minimal pigmentation, while semi-aniline leather features a very light protective finish. The natural grain – including marks such as insect bites or subtle irregularities – may remain visible. Only the highest-quality raw materials are used for these leathers.

Before first use, clean your bag with a soft, dry cotton cloth to remove any dust or particles. Then treat the leather with Leather Care and Impregnating Oil. Apply a small amount to a clean sponge, viscose cloth, or soft microfiber cloth and distribute it evenly across the entire surface without applying pressure. Ensure an even application.
Allow the bag to dry for approximately 20–30 minutes. This treatment can be repeated once or twice a year, depending on use.

Please use only care products recommended by us or by leather specialists. Conventional, oil- or fat-based products may cause darkening or uneven colouration of the leather.

To best protect your INA KENT bag, please note the following:

  • Do not use conventional waterproofing sprays, as these may contain alcohol or other solvents that can damage the surface.
  • Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, as this may cause the colour to fade.
  • Avoid contact with water.
  • Avoid contact with sharp objects and rough surfaces.
  • Avoid contact with materials that may transfer colour pigments.
  • Do not use soaps or solvents for cleaning. Light soiling can be carefully dabbed with a slightly damp cloth.

For more significant stains, we recommend consulting a professional leather specialist.

Quartz antique / Denim

Our Antique leathers are smooth leathers with a distinctive patina. After dyeing, the high-quality leather is treated with waxes and oils that give it its characteristic softness. With wear, the surface quickly develops a more matte, irregular appearance, allowing the underlying leather colour to emerge. Scratches and marks are part of this process, gradually creating the desired vintage effect.

Thanks to the waxes and oils, the leather is naturally protected against light signs of wear, while its high lightfastness helps prevent fading. Nevertheless, we recommend protecting your bag from environmental influences and drying out.

Before first use, clean your bag with a soft, dry cotton cloth to remove any dust or particles. Then treat it with the Leather Care Kit by The Handbag Clinic. Apply a small amount to a clean sponge, viscose, or soft microfiber cloth and gently dab it evenly across the entire surface. Avoid applying pressure and ensure even distribution. Allow the bag to dry for 20–30 minutes. This treatment can be repeated once or twice a year.

To best protect your INA KENT bag, please note the following:

  • Do not use conventional leather fats or waterproofing sprays, as these may contain alcohol or other solvents that can damage the surface.
  • Avoid contact with materials that may transfer colour pigments.
  • Avoid contact with sharp objects and rough surfaces.
  • Avoid contact with water.
  • Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, as this may cause the colour to fade.
  • You can clean your Antique leather bag with a soft, slightly damp microfiber or cotton cloth. Avoid applying pressure to prevent marks or scratches. Do not use soaps or solvents.

For more significant stains, we recommend consulting a professional leather specialist.

Vegan black

Desserto leather is a vegan alternative made from USDA-certified nopal cactus and reinforced or backed with recycled cotton. This vegan smooth leather matches conventional leather in flexibility, feel, and appearance, while being free from toxic chemicals, phthalates, and PVC.

The material’s even colouration is achieved using organic, GOTS-certified pigments and non-toxic chemicals such as bio-based polyurethane. The organic pigment layer provides light protection. Our cactus leather features a smooth texture, a soft hand feel, and a durable structure. Cactus-based leather is largely organic, partially biodegradable, and exceptionally supple. Desserto leather shares many characteristics with traditional smooth leather and likewise requires regular conditioning to remain elastic and prevent brittleness.

To ensure lasting enjoyment of your bag, we recommend treating it with a suitable vegan leather care product before first use and periodically thereafter. 

To best protect your INA KENT bag, please note the following:

  • Please do not use oil- or fat-based products to care for your cactus leather bag. As this is an open-pore material, oils and fats may clog the pores and make cleaning more difficult.
  • Avoid solvents such as alcohol, acetone, silicones, soda, or conventional cleaning agents, as these may cause permanent damage to the material. Instead, use water-based cleaning products.
  • Do not use harsh chemical solvents, as they may dry out the plant-based leather.
  • Do not use conventional waterproofing sprays on the material, as they may contain alcohol or other solvents that can damage the surface.
  • Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, as this may cause the colour to fade.
  • Avoid contact with sharp objects and rough surfaces.
  • Avoid contact with materials that may transfer colour pigments.