FAQ

Is the organic cotton water-repellent?
Yes. All of our organic cotton is treated with a water-repellent C0 impregnation, which is completely free of PFCs (perfluorinated chemicals). PFCs are synthetic substances frequently used in impregnations that harm the environment and human health. Our impregnation achieves the same water repellency without them: it keeps out rain and moisture while remaining safe for skin and planet.

How do I care for the organic cotton?
Start dry. Thoroughly brush off loose dirt with a dry brush. You can also pat the bag down like a cushion to remove dust. Then use a damp microfiber cloth for spot cleaning if necessary, without soap if possible.

For a more thorough cleaning, follow the dry brushing with a mild soapy solution (mild shampoo or wool detergent work well) worked into the surface with a soft brush; then repeat with clean water to remove soap residue. Use soap very sparingly. Residues in the fabric can cause stains.

Pat dry with a towel and allow to air dry. Avoid radiators and excessive heat, as wool components can shrink and leather can be damaged.

How do I care for the leather?
Wipe the leather with a slightly damp cloth to remove surface dirt. If there are water stains or dry edges, or if they appear during cleaning, soften them by rubbing a damp cloth over the affected area and the surface. After cleaning, apply a natural, colorless leather wax or oil to nourish and protect it. Ensure that the product does not come into contact with the cotton, as it can cause stains. We recommend treating the leather about once a year to maintain its condition.

Vegetable-tanned leather develops a patina over time. It darkens and deepens through touch, light, and use. This is a completely natural process that makes every piece unique. The marks it collects are signs of a life lived.

Do the school bags have reflectors?
Yes. Reflective strips are integrated on the sides and around the front pocket.

Do the school bags meet DIN standards?
We have not had our school bag officially tested or certified according to DIN 58124. Our design priorities are natural materials, low weight, and thoughtful construction, and these do not always align with standardized testing requirements.

Here is where our bag stands in comparison to the DIN 58124 criteria:

Upright format, stability, and free-standing: Yes.
Ergonomic back shape: Partially (padded, but not ergonomically molded).
Low empty weight: Yes, 850 grams.
Component safety, no sharp edges: Yes.
Water-repellent: Yes.
Breathable back panel: Yes.
Shoulder straps at least 4 cm wide and padded: Yes.
Additional carrying handle: Yes.

If your child walks to school on poorly lit streets, a bag with more extensive reflective surfaces is likely a better fit. If your child's school places a lot of importance on heavy textbooks, a bag with a more structured, ergonomic back panel is likely better. We believe in being honest about our bag so that you can make the right choice for your child.

Can I visit the studio to try on a bag?
Yes, we welcome visits to our Berlin studio and showroom by appointment. You can try on bags, see the materials in person, and get advice directly from the people who make them. Book your appointment via the booking link on this page.

Can I order fabric samples before placing a custom order?
Yes. We offer a fabric sample set for €7 so that you can see and feel the materials before committing to a color combination. Since colors can vary between screens and devices, we recommend this to anyone who wants to be sure before placing a custom order. In practice, we have not yet heard of customers being disappointed by the colors between screen and bag.

How do returns work?
You have the right to return any standard item within 14 days of receipt without providing a reason. To initiate a return, contact us at info@haenska.com. The return shipping costs are borne by the customer. Once we have received the item, we will fully refund your original payment, including standard delivery costs, within 14 days.

Custom-made orders are excluded from return, as they are specifically made according to your individual configuration.

You can find all details on our Returns & Refunds page.

Can I test a bag before placing a custom order? Yes. If you would like to test the size or design before deciding on a custom order, you are welcome to order a standard bag first and return it. If you then place your custom order, no additional shipping costs will apply.

What about repairs?
Every HÄNSKA piece comes with a free, two-year repair warranty. We regularly extend this for products that have been well cared for.

Even beyond the warranty period, we are always happy to discuss repairs with you. We prefer an old friend to come back rather than be replaced.

You can find more about this on our Bring It Back page.