Fabric Journal Care: Keep Your Pages and Cover in Great Shape

Quick answer

To keep your fabric journal in top shape, spot-clean the cover with a damp cloth and mild soap, avoid soaking the pages, and store it flat in a dry place away from direct sunlight. For the Fabric Journal from Vera Bradley Outlet Store, the 160 lined pages and fabric cover need a little care to stay beautiful over time.

Daily handling tips for your fabric journal

Fabric covers are soft and stylish, but they can attract dust and stains faster than hardbound notebooks. Before you write, make sure your hands are clean and dry to avoid transferring oils onto the fabric or pages. If you carry the journal in a bag, consider sliding it into a protective sleeve or a dedicated pocket to prevent rubbing against keys or pens that could leave marks.

When you're not using the journal, store it flat on a shelf or in a drawer. Standing it upright can cause the pages to warp over time, especially if the journal is thick. The Fabric Journal measures 6.0 inches wide by 9.25 inches tall, so it fits easily in most bags without taking up too much space.

How to clean the fabric cover without damaging the pages

For light dust or smudges, use a soft, dry cloth to gently brush the fabric. If you need to remove a stain, dampen a clean cloth with cool water and a drop of mild liquid soap. Wring it out well so it's barely damp, then blot the stained area. Avoid rubbing aggressively, as that can fray the fabric or push the stain deeper. After blotting, use a dry cloth to absorb any moisture, then let the journal air-dry completely with the cover open.

Never submerge the journal in water or use bleach, alcohol, or harsh cleaners. The 100 gsm wood-free paper inside is not waterproof, and soaking the cover could cause the pages to wrinkle or tear. If the stain is stubborn, consider using a fabric-safe stain remover pen on the cover only, keeping it well away from the paper edge.

Preserving the pages for long-term writing

The Fabric Journal contains 160 lined pages made from 100 gsm wood-free paper, which is thicker than standard notebook paper and resists ink bleed-through fairly well. Still, if you use fountain pens or heavy markers, test a small corner first. For everyday ballpoint or gel pens, the paper performs beautifully without ghosting.

To keep the pages from yellowing or becoming brittle, store the journal away from direct sunlight and high humidity. A cool, dry room is ideal. If you plan to keep the journal for years as a memory or diary, consider placing a sheet of acid-free tissue paper between the front cover and the first page to protect the fabric from ink transfer.

Decision rules for fabric journal care

• Stain removal: Blot with a barely damp cloth and mild soap. Never rub or soak. Quick blotting prevents permanent marks.
• Storage position: Store flat, not upright, to keep pages from warping. Flat storage preserves the journal's shape.
• Pen choice: Ballpoint and gel pens work best. Test fountain pens on a back page first. Avoid heavy markers to prevent bleed-through.
• Cover protection: Use a sleeve or dedicated bag pocket to prevent scuffs and dirt. A little prevention goes a long way.

Product details that affect care

• Fabric Journal: Fabric front and back covers with 160 lined pages of 100 gsm wood-free paper. Dimensions: 6.0" w x 9.25" h x 0.75" d. Includes a ribbon bookmark. The fabric cover requires gentle spot-cleaning only, and the paper's thickness (100 gsm) means it handles most pens well but still needs protection from moisture.
• Fleece Robe: Supersoft robe-5058820278-f820a289432c498d3cd7acd3-1641654">robe-56460-20143-5d98c454a64a6448e1d9e82b-1641642">fleece robe with side pockets and tie closure. Total length varies by size: S/M 40", L/XL 41.25", 2X/3X 42.5". Outlet Exclusive. If you enjoy cozy reading or writing sessions, this robe pairs perfectly with journaling time. Its machine-washable fleece is easier to clean than the fabric journal cover, so you can focus on your pages without worrying about spills on your outfit.

Is this journal care approach right for you?

Best for

• Writers who use ballpoint or gel pens and want a soft, stylish cover
• People who carry their journal in a bag and need simple cleaning tips

Not for

• Artists who use wet media like watercolor or markers that may bleed through 100 gsm paper
• Anyone who wants a waterproof or wipe-clean cover (consider a hardbound or synthetic journal instead)