FAQ

Is the organic cotton water repellent?

Yes. All our organic cotton is treated with a C0 water repellent impregnation, which is completely free of PFCs (perfluorinated chemicals). PFCs are synthetic substances commonly used in waterproofing treatments that are harmful to the environment and human health. Our impregnation achieves the same water repellency without them, keeping rain and moisture out while remaining safe for the skin and the planet.

How do I care for the organic cotton?

Start dry. Brush off any loose dirt thoroughly with a dry brush. You can also really hit the bag like a pillow to remove dust. Then use a damp microfibre cloth to spot clean where needed, ideally without soap.

For a deeper clean, follow the dry brush stage with soapy water (gentle shampoo or wool wash works well) worked into the surface with a soft brush, then repeat with clean water to remove any soap residue. Use soap very sparingly. Residue left in the fabric can cause marks.

Pat dry with a towel and leave to air dry naturally. Avoid radiators and excessive heat, as wool components may shrink and leather will be damaged.

How do I care for the leather?

Wipe the leather with a slightly damp cloth to remove surface dirt. If water marks or dry edges are present, or appear during cleaning, soften them by rubbing a damp cloth across the affected area and over the surface. After cleaning, apply a natural colourless leather wax or oil to nourish and protect, taking care not to let the product touch the cotton as it may stain. We recommend treating the leather approximately once a year to maintain its condition.

Vegetable tanned leather develops a patina over time. It deepens and darkens with touch, light and wear. This is an entirely natural process that makes every piece unique. The marks it accumulates are not signs of age. They are signs of a life lived.

Do the schoolbags have reflectors?

Yes. Reflective strips are integrated along the sides and around the front pocket of the bag.

Do the schoolbags meet DIN standards?

We have not had our schoolbag officially tested or certified against DIN 58124. Our design priorities are sustainability, lightness and considered construction, and those do not always align with standardised testing requirements.

Here is where our bag stands against the DIN 58124 criteria:

• Upright format, stability and freestanding: Yes
• Ergonomic back panel shape: Partially (padded but not ergonomically shaped)
• Low empty weight: Yes, 800 grams
• Component safety, no sharp edges: Yes
• Water repellent: Yes
• Breathable back panel: Yes
• Shoulder straps at least 4cm wide and padded: Yes
• Additional carry handle: Yes

If your child walks to school along poorly lit streets, a bag with more extensive reflective surfaces may be a better fit. If your child's school places a high emphasis on heavy textbooks, a bag with a more structured ergonomic back panel may suit better. We believe in being honest about what our bag is and what it is not, so 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 using the booking link on this page.

Can I order fabric swatches before placing a custom order?

Yes. We offer a fabric swatch kit for €7, so you can see and feel the materials before committing to a colour combination. Given that colours can vary between screens and devices, we recommend this for anyone who wants to be certain of their choices before placing a custom order. In practice, we have not heard of customers being disappointed with the colours from screen to bag.

How do returns work?

You have the right to return any standard item within 14 days of receiving it, without giving a reason. To initiate a return, contact us at hello@haenska.com. Return shipping costs are covered by the customer. Once we receive the item, we will refund your original payment in full, including standard delivery costs, within 14 days.

Custom made orders are exempt from return, as they are made specifically to your individual configuration.

For full details, see our Returns & Refunds page.

Can I try a bag before placing a custom order?

Yes. If you would like to test the size or design before committing to a custom order, you are welcome to order a standard bag first and return it. When you then place your custom order, no additional shipping charges will apply.

What about repairs?

Every HÄNSKA piece comes with a two-year repair guarantee, free of charge. We regularly extend this for products that have been well cared for.

Beyond the guarantee period, we are always happy to discuss repairs. We would rather see an old friend come back than be replaced.

For more, see our Bring It Back page.