How to Care for Your Levain Merch: Tote Bag and Candle Maintenance

Levain Bakery isn't just about cookies—it's about the whole experience, including the merch that lets you carry a piece of NYC home. Whether you've picked up the Taxi Cab Tote Bag or the Bicycle Tote, or you're enjoying the warm glow of the Cheers to You Candle, proper care keeps your items looking great and lasting longer.

In this guide, we'll cover washing techniques for your canvas totes and tips for getting the most out of your candle. With a little attention, your Levain merch can stay in top shape for years.

Washing Your Levain Tote Bag

Canvas tote bags are sturdy, but they need gentle handling to keep their shape and print. Before washing, empty all pockets and give the bag a quick shake to remove crumbs or debris. Spot clean small stains with a mild detergent and a soft cloth—this is often enough for everyday marks.

For a deeper clean, hand wash in cold water with a gentle detergent. Avoid bleach and fabric softeners, as they can fade the design and break down the fibers. If you prefer machine washing, place the bag in a mesh laundry bag and use the delicate cycle with cold water. Always air dry; the heat from a dryer can shrink the canvas and crack the print.

• Spot clean first to avoid unnecessary full washes.
• Hand wash with mild detergent in cold water for best results.
• Air dry flat to maintain shape and prevent shrinkage.

Caring for Your Cheers to You Candle

The Cheers to You Candle adds a cozy touch to any room, but proper burning techniques ensure an even melt and maximum scent throw. On the first burn, let the candle melt across the entire surface—this can take 1-2 hours. This prevents tunneling and ensures the candle burns evenly for its lifetime.

Trim the wick to about 1/4 inch before each lighting to control the flame and reduce soot. Burn for no more than 4 hours at a time, and always place the candle on a heat-resistant surface away from drafts. When the wax level gets low, discontinue use to avoid overheating the glass.

• First burn: allow the top layer to melt completely.
• Trim wick to 1/4 inch before each use.
• Never burn for more than 4 hours at a time.

General Merch Maintenance Tips

Beyond washing and burning, a few simple habits keep your Levain merch in pristine condition. Store tote bags folded or hung to avoid creases, and keep them away from direct sunlight to prevent fading. For candles, store them in a cool, dry place when not in use, and keep the lid on to preserve the fragrance.

If you're gifting or storing your merch, consider using the original packaging—like the Levain Cookie Tin Gift Set or a gift box—to protect items. These containers are designed to keep contents safe and can be reused for your own storage needs.

• Keep totes out of direct sunlight to prevent color fading.
• Store candles with lids on to maintain scent strength.
• Repurpose gift tins and boxes for organized storage.

With these simple care routines, your Levain tote bags and candles will stay as fresh as the cookies that inspired them. Treat your merch well, and it'll keep bringing a little NYC warmth to your everyday life.