If you haven’t already, October is a great month to switch out of your summer wardrobe. This goes for your bags and purses too. Extend the life of your bags by properly storing them. Engage your summer purses in a good wipe-down with a clean, dry cloth before you store them.

Although hanging your purse from a hook in your bedroom may seem like a good idea to clean and organize your space, it can actually be damaging. Hanging a purse can distort the shape of the handles and the bag itself. Instead store your purse in a soft, breathable dust bag or a neutral colored cotton pillowcase. Never use plastic or vinyl as moisture could get trapped inside. Cross the handles over each other to avoid wear on the bag and unclip and removable straps for long-term storage. Then, lay your purse on its side for storage.