Handmade to Hold What Matters. Your Kindred Carry piece is made to be used, carried, loved, and lived with. A little simple care will help keep it looking its best for years to come.
Cork Fabric
Cork is tougher than it looks. We love it because it is lightweight, flexible, naturally water-resistant, and beautifully unique.
- For everyday cleaning: Wipe gently with a soft, damp cloth.
- For a little more cleanup: Use a small amount of mild soap with water, then wipe away any residue with a clean damp cloth.
- Let it air dry: Never use direct heat, a hair dryer, or a clothes dryer.
- Avoid: Bleach, alcohol-based cleaners, harsh chemicals, abrasive scrubbers, and soaking.
Every piece of cork has its own natural grain, texture, and color variation. Those little differences are part of what makes your bag one of a kind, not flaws.
Can cork get wet?
Everyday splashes and light rain are generally no problem. Cork fabric is naturally water-resistant, but we still recommend wiping away excess moisture and allowing your bag to air dry rather than leaving it wet or saturated for long periods.
Will cork crack or peel?
Quality cork fabric is made to flex with regular use. Treat it gently, avoid extreme heat and harsh cleaners, and it should age beautifully. Natural surface markings and texture are normal characteristics of the material.
Cotton Canvas
- Spot clean whenever possible with cool water and mild soap.
- Blot rather than aggressively scrub to protect the fabric surface and color.
- Air dry completely before storing.
- Avoid bleach unless a care label specifically says otherwise.
Because our bags are structured and may include interfacing, hardware, specialty linings, or mixed materials, we do not recommend putting finished bags in the washing machine or dryer.
Waxed Canvas
Waxed canvas develops character as you use it. Creases, folds, and lighter areas are part of its natural patina.
- Brush off dry dirt with a soft brush or cloth.
- For spots, use cool water and a soft cloth.
- Avoid detergents, hot water, machine washing, dry cleaning, and ironing.
- Allow it to air dry naturally.
Over time, waxed canvas can be reproofed with a wax made specifically for waxed cotton if needed.
Faux Leather & Vinyl
- Wipe clean with a soft damp cloth.
- Use a very small amount of mild soap for stubborn dirt, then wipe clean.
- Keep away from prolonged heat and direct sunlight when storing.
- Avoid leather conditioners, solvents, acetone, alcohol, bleach, and abrasive cleaners unless the material manufacturer specifically recommends them.
Ripstop & Other Performance Fabrics
- Wipe or spot clean with cool water and mild soap.
- Do not scrub coated surfaces aggressively.
- Air dry before storing.
- Avoid bleach, high heat, and harsh solvents.
Hardware, Zippers & Straps
- Wipe hardware with a soft dry cloth after exposure to moisture.
- Avoid household metal polishes unless you know they are safe for the specific finish.
- Open and close zippers gently and keep the zipper track free of lint and debris.
- Do not overload straps, handles, or attachment points beyond normal everyday use.
Hardware finishes can naturally show wear over time, especially on high-contact areas. That is normal for a well-loved bag.
Linings & Interiors
- Empty crumbs and loose debris regularly.
- Spot clean lining fabrics with a damp cloth and mild soap.
- Avoid soaking the interior, especially if your piece includes interfacing, RFID fabric, foam, or other structured layers.
- Leave the bag open until the interior is completely dry.
Storage
When your bag is taking a little vacation:
- Empty it before storing.
- Gently stuff larger bags with clean tissue or soft fabric to help them keep their shape.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from prolonged direct sunlight and extreme heat.
- Avoid hanging a heavy bag by its straps for long periods.
A Note About Handmade Pieces
Your Kindred Carry item is handmade, and many of our pieces combine several different materials. When in doubt, always follow the care instructions for the most delicate material on the piece.
If you are unsure about a cleaner, stain treatment, or repair, contact us before trying it. We would much rather help you protect your bag than meet you afterward and hear, “Well... I tried something.”
Made with care. Carried with confidence.