How to Get a Musty Smell Out of Leather

Leather goods are prized for their durability, classic appearance, and timeless appeal.

However, when they start to develop a musty smell, it can be quite bothersome.

Fresh Gear machines can sanitize and deodorize pretty much anything.
But, even though they’re bigger than a fridge, we realize that not everything can fit inside.
And, even though there are many Sanitizing Centers across 10 countries, there may not be one near you.

So, we’ve gathered a collection of the most popular, non-FreshGear ways of sanitizing and deodorizing to help you out.

II. Identify the Cause of the Musty Smell

Common causes of musty smells in leather

1. Humidity and moisture: Leather is hygroscopic, meaning it can absorb and hold moisture from its surroundings. Excess moisture can lead to mold and mildew growth, which in turn produce musty odors.
2. Lack of proper care and maintenance: Neglecting to clean and condition leather items regularly can also lead to the development of musty smells.
3. Bacterial growth: The presence of bacteria on the surface of leather can cause bad odors. This can happen due to sweat, dirt, or spills that have not been cleaned properly.

How to determine the cause of the smell

• Inspect your leather item for signs of mold, mildew, or bacterial growth. These may appear as discolored patches, a fuzzy or slimy texture, or an off smell.
• Consider the conditions in which your leather item has been stored. High humidity levels or prolonged exposure to moisture can lead to musty smells.
• Evaluate how well you’ve been maintaining the leather. Infrequent cleaning or conditioning can result in a buildup of dirt and bacteria, contributing to the musty odor.

III. Preventing Future Musty Smells

Tips for keeping leather items from developing musty smells in the first place

1. Store leather items in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.
2. Avoid exposing leather to direct sunlight or heat sources, as these can cause the leather to dry out and crack.
3. Clean and condition your leather items regularly to remove dirt, sweat, and other contaminants that can contribute to musty smells.
4. Use silica gel packets or other moisture-absorbing materials to help maintain a dry environment around your leather goods.

Best practices for storing leather goods

1. Use padded hangers or cloth bags to store leather jackets and clothing, as these can help maintain their shape and prevent creasing.
2. Avoid using plastic bags, as these can trap moisture and promote mold growth.
3. Store leather shoes with shoe trees to help maintain their shape and prevent creasing.
4. Keep leather items away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and moisture-prone areas.

IV. How to Clean Leather

Overview of leather cleaning techniques and products

1. Vacuum or brush: Remove loose dirt and debris from the surface of the leather using a soft-bristled brush or the brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner.
2. Mild soap solution: Mix a few drops of mild, dye-free soap with warm water. Dip a soft cloth into the solution and gently wipe the leather surface. Avoid soaking the leather.
3. Leather cleaner: Use a cleaner specifically designed for leather, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Avoid using harsh chemicals, as these can damage the leather.
4. Leather conditioner: After cleaning, apply a leather conditioner to help maintain the leather’s softness and flexibility.

When to use each method

• Vacuum or brush: Use this method as part of your regular leather maintenance routine, or whenever you notice dirt or debris on the surface.
• Mild soap solution: Use this method for light cleaning or when dealing with small spills or stains.
• Leather cleaner: Use this method for more thorough cleaning or when dealing with stubborn dirt, stains, or odors.
• Leather conditioner: Apply conditioner after cleaning the leather, or as recommended by the manufacturer. Conditioning your leather items regularly can help prevent the development of musty smells and prolong their lifespan.

V. How to Get Musty Smell Out of Leather

Step-by-step instructions for removing musty smells from leather

1. Begin by cleaning the leather using one of the methods mentioned above.
2. Air out the leather item. Place it in a well-ventilated area or outside, but avoid direct sunlight, which can damage the leather.
3. Sprinkle baking soda over the leather surface, making sure to cover any areas that may be harboring mold or mildew. Let it sit for several hours or overnight to absorb the odors.
4. Gently brush off the baking soda using a soft-bristled brush or vacuum it up using the brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner.
5. If the musty smell persists, mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Lightly mist the affected areas, taking care not to soak the leather. Allow it to air dry in a well-ventilated area.
6. Repeat the process as necessary until the musty smell is gone.
7. After the smell has been eliminated, condition the leather to restore its suppleness and shine.

Using household items such as baking soda, vinegar, and sunlight

• Baking soda: This common household item is an effective odor absorber and can help neutralize musty smells in leather.
• Vinegar: A natural disinfectant, white vinegar can help kill mold and mildew while also neutralizing odors. Dilute it with water to avoid damaging the leather.
• Sunlight: Allowing your leather item to air out in indirect sunlight can help speed up the drying process and eliminate musty smells. However, be cautious not to expose the leather to direct sunlight for prolonged periods, as this can cause damage.

VI. Specialty Products for Removing Musty Smells

Overview of commercial products designed to remove musty smells from leather

1. Leather-specific odor eliminators: Some products are specially formulated to remove odors from leather items without causing damage. These can be found at specialty stores or online.
2. Activated charcoal: This substance can absorb and neutralize odors. Look for odor-absorbing bags or pouches containing activated charcoal and place them near your leather items.
3. Ozone generators: These devices produce ozone gas, which can help eliminate musty smells. However, they should be used with caution, as ozone can also damage leather if used incorrectly.

We’ve covered several methods for removing musty smells from leather, including the use of household items like baking soda and vinegar, as well as commercial products designed specifically for leather care. The key to maintaining the beauty and longevity of your leather goods is proper care and storage.

By following the tips and best practices outlined in this article, you can keep your leather items looking and smelling their best for years to come.