I wash my handmade purses by putting them inside a pillowcase and tying close to the bag, wash on gentle, smooth out and then hang to dry.

Goofy question: So, do the ones made with the really stiff interfacing hold up well when washed? Will they still hold their shape? I don't use much interfacing, can you tell? Just wondering before I make one. If not, then I'll go to plan B. Thanks!

I just throw my bowtucks bags in with the regular wash and into the dryer. I have had no problems they come out like new and still hold their shape.

I wash my quilted bags all the time. If they have a hard removable bottom I take it out. I just washed a Vera Bradley purse and it came out fine. I do mine on the gentle cycle and don't put them in the dryer.

I don't see why not. I even wash my Coach bags. I won't use it if its dirty and my daughter uses them a lot and some get dirty easily. I figured since I wouldn't use them if they were dirty what did i have to lose. They come out great and clean. Regular cycle normally in with other clothes or towels.

Just a quick thought- When I started making purses and bags, I wanted something durable for the bottom. I had leftover plastic canvas, so I cut it to fit, covered it with fabric, and put it in, (this has even worked on a purse with an oval bottom). If I have to wash the purse, I just throw it I the washer, and remove the base before putting it in the dryer. (The base is dry by morning.)

I would wash it by hand in warm water... give it a soak for a few minutes first in soapy water...

turned it inside out and washed with dark like items-dried in dryer until almost done and then hung it out to finish drying. Worked like a charm and looks good as new.

washing purses
 

I wash mine all the time. It does make them wear out quicker but they do that anyway with me.

I wash my Vera Bradley purses at the beginning of each season. Two seasons is about as long as they last.