Got your eye on the latest Bottega Veneta, Hermes Birkin or Chloe collection? But, are you taking good care of what you have?

Designer bags cost a pretty penny. Having splurged a lavish amount on these stunning arm candies, it is only natural that you want to take care of your precious possessions. Fortunately, luxury handbags are designed to last and have a very long shelf life if proper care is taken.

Here are some tips and techniques to help you keep your designer bags in great shape:

• Store handbags in such a way that they are protected yet easily accessible. Keep them standing upright on the top shelf of the closet.
• Designer bags are best stored in boxes but if they are not kept in boxes, they must be left inside wardrobe shelves. Expensive designer bags should never be stored in the basement or in the attics.
• When you buy designer handbags, ensure that you store the card of authenticity or other paperwork (including the invoice) carefully. These come handy in case you need to contact the retailer for repair work in the future.
• In some stores, retailers have special care kits for bags. Before going out with the bag, spray a thin layer of protector over the bag. This ensures easy cleaning of spillage and prevents staining. This is particularly important in case of cloth and other delicate fabrics. When buying designer handbags, keep in mind that light colors are high maintenance. Dark colors are easier to maintain in the long run.
• Store the bag in a plastic cover for better protection. Bubble wraps offer protection both from wear and tear as well as moths.
• It is hard to protect leather bags from moisture. A better idea is to abstain from using such materials in damp weather.
• Do not handle the bag roughly. Bags should not be used as a resting surface for writing. Designer bags should not be placed within trolleys as they may get scratched or damaged.
• Undo strap buckles when storing the bag for long periods so that impressions are not left on the bag. This way, you have the freedom to wear the bag long or short and carry off any style with flair.
• Women tend to stuff a lot of things into their bags. This is a big no if you want to keep your designer handbags safe from damage and stains. Lotions, make-up items, lipsticks and creams are bad news for the bag. Even leaking pens and sharp pencils should be avoided.
• When storing the handbag, remove all items within the bag. Make sure that the storage space is not dusty or damp. Air your bags once in a while. Take the bag to the cleaner for clearing off tiny stains and prints that are not clearly visible to the eye. Hardware such as zips, rings and rivets need to be polished and waxed so that they retain their luster.