Clean a Vera Bradley
Vera Bradley bags require very basic cleaning. Harsh chemicals can damage them. It is also wise to treat your new Vera Bradley bag at the outset to stop it from getting dirty in the first place.
Steps
- Check for tag containing care instructions. You should find out if your bag is made of washable materials. If there are no care instructions, go online or call manufacturer for information before ruining your bag.
- Prepare your bag. Dust it down to remove any dust, specks, fluff, etc. This is a good time to consider whether spot washing might be a better solution than a whole wash
- Check the bottom of your Vera bag for a cardboard insert that helps keep the bag upright. Make sure you take it out before you put it in the washer.(Not all bags have a slit to take the cardboard out.)
- Select the gentle cycle on the washing machine. Use only cold water.
- Add vinegar. This is the only addition that you need - no detergent
- Wash. Use a slow spin only.
- Dry indoors. Try hanging it on a clothes hanger from a hook in the laundry. Over the laundry sink is a good place to allow it to drip gently.
- Use Scotchgard on the bag. This will prevent stains in the future. Whenever you purchase a new Vera Bradley, Scotchgard it from the beginning, to avoid having to wash the bag in the first place.
- Be sure to add the cardboard piece back at the base of the bag.
- Finished.
Tips
- Only wash it with other Vera Bradley items.
- Vinegar is gentle and helps to restore faded colors in the bag.
- Drying flat is also fine; use a sweater rack or similar device to keep it clean and to allow the air to circulate through it.
- Limited edition bags have cleaning instructions; follow what they suggest.
- Note the solid bottoms should be removed from some models, prior to washing. This only applies to bases that move; ones sewn in can be washed safely.
Warnings
- Don't dry in direct sunlight; it will fade the colors.
- Even mild detergent can fade a Vera Bradley. Use vinegar.
- Don't dry clean Vera Bradley bags.
Things You'll Need
- Vera Bradley bag
- 1/4 - 1/2 cup vinegar
- Scotchguard
