Quick Answer

To clean enamel pins on bags and lanyards, wipe them gently with a soft, dry cloth after each wear. For stubborn smudges, use a barely damp microfiber cloth and dry immediately. Always remove pins before washing the bag or lanyard, and store them on a pin board or in a soft pouch to prevent scratches.

Why Enamel Pins Need Special Care on Bags and Lanyards

Enamel pins are durable but not indestructible. When attached to bags or lanyards, they face daily friction, moisture, and exposure to lotions or hand sanitizers. The soft enamel finish can dull over time if cleaned with harsh chemicals or abrasive cloths. The metal backing and pin post can also corrode if left damp. Simple, consistent care keeps the colors bright and the pin securely attached.

Step-by-Step Enamel Pin Care Routine

  1. Step 1: Remove the pin before cleaning the bag or lanyard: Always take the pin off before washing or spot-cleaning the fabric. Even a gentle machine cycle can bend the pin post or chip the enamel. Hand-wash the accessory separately, then reattach the pin once everything is completely dry. Common mistake: leaving the pin on during a wash cycle. This can loosen the backing clutch and scratch the enamel.
  2. Step 2: Wipe the pin with a soft, dry cloth after each wear: Use a microfiber or cotton cloth to gently remove fingerprints, dust, and oils. For the back of the pin and the post, a quick wipe prevents tarnish from building up on the metal. Avoid paper towels—they can leave micro-scratches on the enamel surface. Checkpoint: If the pin still looks dull after a dry wipe, move to step 3.
  3. Step 3: Clean stubborn smudges with a barely damp cloth: Lightly dampen a microfiber cloth with water (no soap or alcohol) and gently rub the affected area. Dry the pin immediately with the dry part of the cloth. Never soak the pin or submerge it in water, as moisture can seep under the enamel or rust the post. Common mistake: using glass cleaner or polish. These can strip the enamel's protective layer and leave a hazy residue.
  4. Step 4: Check the backing and post for tightness: After cleaning, inspect the rubber clutch or metal backing. If it spins freely or feels loose, replace it with a fresh backing. A loose clutch is the main reason pins fall off bags and get lost. Many Bellzi pins come with standard clutches that can be swapped easily. Checkpoint: If the post is bent, stop using the pin until you gently straighten it with pliers wrapped in a soft cloth.
  5. Step 5: Store pins off the accessory when not in use: For long-term storage, move pins to a pin board, felt display case, or soft pouch. Leaving them on a bag or lanyard for weeks at a time exposes them to dust, humidity, and accidental snags. Storing them flat also prevents the pin post from scratching other items. Verdict: A few seconds of care after each wear will keep your enamel pins looking new for years.

Products That Benefit from These Care Tips

  • Seri Enamel Pin - Shell: The Seri Enamel Pin - Shell is a small enamel pin from Bellzi, sized at 1.625" x 1.25". Its compact size makes it a popular choice for lanyards and bag straps, where it can rub against zippers or hardware. Gentle cleaning and regular checks help maintain its detailed shell design.
  • Seali Enamel Pin - You Are The Seali-est: The Seali Enamel Pin from Bellzi features the wording 'You Are The Seali-est' and measures 1.5" x 0.875". The text area is prone to collecting dust and oils from frequent handling. A soft, dry wipe after each use keeps the lettering legible and the enamel glossy.