How to Care for Your Coloured Sisal Bags: Tips to Keep Your Shaba Bags Looking Beautiful
We’re so excited to introduce our new drop three stunning hand-dyed beauties: the Nyuzi Bucket Bag, the Safiri Sling Bag, and the bold Ramani Tote Bag with its signature black pattern. These are not just bags they're statements of heritage, modern artistry, and conscious design.
Made from natural sisal fiber and hand-dyed by skilled artisans, each bag carries the story of craftsmanship and color. But just like any piece of art, your bag needs a little love to stay looking its best.
Here’s how to take care of your coloured sisal or natural fiber bag, so it can keep telling your story season after season.
1. Keep it Dry – Water is Not Its Friend
Sisal is a natural plant fiber and doesn’t love water. While the dye we use is fixed, soaking your bag or exposing it to heavy rain could cause colors to bleed or fade over time. If your bag gets damp:
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Gently pat it dry with a clean cloth.
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Let it air dry naturally in the shade never in direct sun or with a dryer.
2. Spot Clean with Care
For regular cleaning:
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Use a dry or slightly damp cloth to wipe off any dirt or dust.
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Avoid scrubbing or using harsh chemicals. A mix of mild soap and cold water on a soft cloth can work for spot cleaning.
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Always test on a small hidden area first if you’re unsure.
3. No Oils, Lotions or Perfumes Near the Bag
These natural fibers can absorb oils or lotions and stain especially the lighter or hand-dyed areas. Make it a habit to:
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Apply your hand creams or perfumes before picking up your bag.
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Keep cosmetics inside a pouch or cosmetic case if storing them inside your tote or sling.
4. Store It Right
Too much sunlight can fade vibrant colors, and damp environments can attract mold. When not in use:
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Stuff your bag with paper or a soft cloth to help it keep its shape.
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Store in a cool, dry place preferably in the dust bag it came with.
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Avoid hanging your sisal bag for long periods it can distort the shape.
5. Celebrate the Patina
Natural fiber bags age gracefully. Over time, you may notice slight changes in tone, texture, or softness that’s not a flaw, it’s part of its journey. Hand-dyed colors especially may evolve gently with use, giving your bag a unique character.
Why This Matters
At Shaba, every coloured bag is hand-dyed in small batches using sustainable techniques and local expertise. Caring for your bag not only preserves its beauty but also honors the time and skill of the artisans behind it.
Final Tip: Wear It Often
These bags were made to be lived in walked with, talked about, and worn with pride. With the right care, your Nyuzi, Safiri, or Ramani can become a wardrobe favorite for years to come.