Consumer research explores bag maintenance and the desire for flawless products

A survey conducted by NEXER Group and the Hyogo Prefecture Bag Industry Association involving 300 participants reveals varying attitudes toward bag maintenance and repair. Approximately 22.7% of respondents engage in regular or occasional care, such as cleaning or waterproofing, primarily to extend the lifespan of their items or maintain cleanliness. Conversely, 77.3% of respondents report doing little to no maintenance, citing reasons such as lack of knowledge on how to care for items or finding the process cumbersome.

Regarding damaged goods, 26.3% of participants prefer to repair their bags rather than replace them. Additionally, 16.7% of consumers consider whether a brand offers warranty systems or repair services when making a purchase, with over half of those surveyed finding long-term support from a brand to be an attractive feature.

Complementary research published in the Journal of Consumer Research examines the psychological drivers behind product replacement. Researchers identified a phenomenon termed a “desire for perfect products,” where certain individuals are highly sensitive to minor imperfections. This tendency often leads consumers to replace functional items, such as bags, phones, or furniture, simply because they no longer meet an idealized standard of flawlessness.