How to properly care for Louis Vuitton Canvas & Co.

Designer bags made of coated canvas – why they appear more robust than they actually are

Designer bags made of coated canvas – like those from Louis Vuitton, MCM, or Goyard – are considered durable, easy to care for, and virtually indestructible. This is precisely where the misconception begins. Many owners assume it's a form of leather and treat their bags with classic leather care products or DIY home remedies.

In fact, the typical canvas used by these brands consists of a printed cotton or linen fabric sealed with a layer of PVC (polyvinyl chloride). This thermoplastic polymer makes the surface durable but sensitive to improper cleaning methods. The result is damage that appears visually like water stains – but is chemically much deeper.

❌ Why traditional cleaning products can be dangerous

The internet is full of DIY tips for "cleaning handbags": baby wipes or cosmetic wipes, petroleum jelly, disinfectant, makeup remover. What many don't know: ingredients like alcohol, ammonia, or acetone directly attack the PVC coating.

The result is what is known as optical delamination: The surface loses its uniform shine, appears dull or sticky – and the familiar light streaks are particularly common. These look like water spots at first glance, but are the result of a chemical reaction.

Here's the chemical cause – explained simply:

Alcohol penetrates the top layer of PVC and alters the way light is refracted within the material. Where the polymer structure is attacked or dissolved, the light refracts differently – resulting in whitish, cloudy areas. Many people mistakenly believe these streaks to be superficial stains.

The fact that DIY tips like lip balm or petroleum jelly seem to help is an optical illusion: The grease forms a film over the damaged area and alters the way light is refracted. The streaks appear smoother, but they are not removed. As soon as the film of grease is worn away, the stain reappears – unchanged.

The safe solution: Canvas Glow Foam

Canvas Glow Foam was specially developed for coated canvas – specifically for materials like the iconic LV monogram, Goyardine, or MCM Visetos. It's based on a formula that cleans without damaging the PVC coating.

• water-based
• alcohol-free
• without aggressive solvents
• with mild, natural surfactants from orange peel and soy

This allows for a deep yet gentle cleaning – ideal for anyone who wants to clean their designer bag without alcohol and without the risk of light streaks.

Usage tips: How to keep your canvas bag looking like new

Here are our best care tips for a thorough all-around cleaning – from the outside in.

1. Exterior cleaning with Canvas Glow Foam

• Apply to a soft cloth or directly to the surface.
• Lather up using a soft brush in circular motions.
• Remove with a clean microfiber cloth – no rinsing required.

The foam loosens dirt particles from the structure of the coated canvas without stressing the polymer or drying out the surface.

2. Interior cleaning: How to do it even with fabric lining

Many canvas bags can be carefully turned inside out to provide better access to the lining.

TIP: Warm the canvas slightly beforehand with a hairdryer – for just a few seconds – so that the PVC remains flexible and does not break.

• First remove crumbs, dust and deposits with a handheld vacuum cleaner or lint brush.
  
• Spray the fabric lining liberally with Canvas Glow Foam, then spread and lather with a brush. Dab off any excess with a clean cloth and allow to dry. The foam removes makeup residue, dust, sebum and everyday dirt – quickly and safely.
• When turning it right side out, warm it again with a hairdryer to avoid breakage.

3. Extra care for Vachetta leather parts

Many canvas bags have handles, tabs, or patches made of untreated vachetta leather. This leather is porous and reacts immediately to liquids or improper care with stains or discoloration.

Important notice regarding new bags:
For newly purchased bags with vachetta details, we advise against using Glowbag. Instead, we recommend applying a thin coat of dry waterproofing spray and allowing it to dry completely for 24 hours before using the bag.

Note regarding older bags:
For older, previously used bags, Vachetta can be very well cared for with Glowbag. However, reversing the natural aging and darkening process is not possible: Vachetta darkens over time due to sun exposure, air, and use. Old, deep stains can be visibly reduced with Glowbag, but not completely removed.

Here's how to properly care for Vachetta with Glowbag:

• Evenly moisten the leather with the Glow Cleaner.
• Lather up using a soft brush in circular motions.
• Remove with a clean cloth
• For moisturizing care, apply the Glow Conditioner generously.
• Allow the leather to dry for several hours.

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Conclusion: Good care protects and preserves the value

Whether newly purchased or cherished vintage: coated canvas appears robust, but improper care can permanently damage the surface. With the right products, your designer canvas bag will not only stay clean and hygienic, but will also retain its value for years to come.

Canvas Glow Foam is the safest choice for anyone who wants to care for their handbag – alcohol-free, water-based and specially designed for the delicate PVC coating of Louis Vuitton, Goyard or MCM.

If you want to protect your favorite bag, always start with proper cleaning – and use products formulated for designer bags.