I'm posting this just in case there are others like me who are looking for this info. but find older threads. I recently purchased an authentic Speedy 25 on Craigslist for a crazy low price - almost free!
The bag was in overall good shape, but dirty inside and out and the handles were almost black. But as soon as I saw it, I had to have it.
And I'd been wanting to try some restoration techniques, but not on one of my new store-bought bags!
I took some before and after photos and will post them if I can figure out how to do it (I'm a newbie).
Anyway, I cleaned the exterior canvas with a warm, wet washcloth and a gentle, plant-based cleanser - just a few drops in warm water. That worked like a charm and completely removed all the little white dots and a ton of dirt! Instant shine.
I used the same approach on the handles and leather, and there was sooooo much dirt, that I thought to myself: "hey, why not magic eraser? everyone else is doing it!"
Note to self: never, ever, ever again use magic eraser on my precious LV vachetta! Yes, it works to clean up the leather, but completely dries it out! I was sickened and thought: "what have I just done?"
So, I searched and searched and found a few old TPF threads. I'm sure there are lots of things that work for others. What I used was the Apple Leather Conditioner because that's what I had on hand. I have some LMB on order but it's not yet arrived. After the first application, I was literally nearly crying because I was so angry with myself. No difference whatsoever! I even called my SA about the cost of replacing the handles just so I could forget I had ever done something so dumb!
But then I thought, if the problem is severe dryness, maybe it just needs lots of moisture and one application won't be enough. I did not want to start mixing products, so I just determined that I would do several applications of the Apple product over several days and see what happened. The thing that I think ended up really working the best is that I used one of those triangular makeup sponges to apply the conditioner. That was a dream! And then I gently buffed with a soft cloth (think old t-shirt). I always use white rags and cloths to clean so that I can see the dirt.
Well, I am happy to say, that this morning when I awoke and went to check on my precious new baby, I mean bag, the leather handles were starting to look moisturized and shiny and smooth again!
I'm going to hold off on any further application until I use the bag some - I have a theory that by simply handling it, the oils from my hands will naturally moisturize the handles. All the other leather components now look really, really good.
Hope this helps someone else who may be searching for this same info.