Leather items like jackets, bags, and shoes are loved for their long-lasting quality and classic style. But sometimes, they can smell bad—from moisture, smoke, or being stored in the wrong place.
Don’t worry, though! You can eliminate those smells properly and make your leather items smell fresh again. In this blog, we’ll share some easy and effective ways of how to get rid of odour in leather and keep it smelling good.
Why Does Leather Smell?
Before we discuss how to get rid of bad smells, let’s first understand why leather can start to smell. Leather is a natural material that can soak up moisture, oils, and dirt from its surroundings. When leather is exposed to humidity or mold or doesn’t have air circulation, it can develop unpleasant odors. Sometimes, new leather items can also have a strong smell because of how they’re treated during production.
Here are some common reasons why leather might smell:
- Humidity : Leather absorbs moisture, which can lead to mold and mildew.
- Smoke : Cigarette smoke or fire smoke can get trapped in leather.
- Improper storage : Storing leather in damp or non-ventilated spaces can cause bad odors.
- Pet accidents : If pets urinate on leather, it can leave behind strong smells.
Now that we know why leather smells, let’s talk about how to eliminate those odors.
How to Get Rid of Odour in Leather
1. Let It Air Out
The simplest way to eliminate bad smells from leather is to let it breathe. Leather needs fresh air to get rid of trapped moisture and smells.
- Place your leather item in a well-ventilated area. Ideally, put it outside, but avoid direct sunlight, as this can damage the leather.
- If the odor is strong, Let it air for a few hours or even a day or two.
- If you can’t take it outside, leave it in a room with good airflow or an open window.
Tip: If you’re trying to remove smoke or moldy smells, leaving the item in the fresh air for 24 to 48 hours can help.
2. Use Baking Soda or Activated Charcoal
Baking soda and activated charcoal are excellent natural odor absorbers. These materials can help freshen up your leather items without damaging them.
- Baking Soda : Lightly sprinkle baking soda on the surface of your leather item or inside bags or shoes. Leave it overnight, then shake it off the next day.
- Activated Charcoal : Put activated charcoal in a breathable bag and place it near your leather item. Leave it for a day or two to help absorb odors.
Both options are simple and effective. Just be sure to test them on a small area of the leather first to ensure they don’t affect the finish.
3. Try a White Vinegar and Water Solution
Vinegar is a powerful natural deodorizer. It can help remove harsh smells, like mold or mildew, from leather without harming it.
How to use it
- Mix one part white vinegar with one part water in a spray bottle.
- Lightly mist the affected area of your leather. Don’t soak it—spray enough to dampen the surface.
- Let it sit for 10 minutes, then wipe it off with a clean cloth.
- Let the leather air dry.
This is a good solution for moldy smells or general mustiness.
4. Use Leather Cleaners and Conditioners
Leather-specific cleaners and conditioners are also an excellent way to eliminate odors while keeping the leather in good condition. These products are designed to clean and refresh your leather; some even help reduce bad smells.
- Apply the cleaner to a soft cloth and gently rub the leather in circular motions.
- Be careful not to use too much cleaner, and always follow the instructions on the label.
- After cleaning, apply a conditioner to keep the leather soft and hydrated and to help prevent it from drying out.
Using a cleaner can also leave a fresh scent on the leather, making it smell even better.
5. Freshen It Up with Essential Oils
If you want your leather items to smell nice, use essential oils. Lavender, eucalyptus, or tea tree oils give leather a pleasant scent while fighting bacteria.
How to use it
- Put a few drops of your favorite essential oil onto a cotton ball or soft cloth.
- Rub the cloth gently over the leather or place the cotton ball inside your leather item overnight.
- Always test a small area first to ensure the oil doesn’t cause discoloration or damage.
Essential oils can make your leather smell fresh and natural; just be careful not to use too much.
6. Take It to a Professional
If the smell won’t go away no matter what you try, taking your leather item to a professional might be a good idea. Leather experts can clean and restore your item using special methods, like ozone treatment or steam cleaning, that are safe and work well to eliminate harsh odors. Professional cleaning is a smart choice if your leather item is valuable or needs help.
How to Prevent Odors in Leather
Once you’ve removed the odors, here are some tips to keep your leather smelling fresh in the future:
- Store leather properly: Keep leather items in a cool, dry place away from humidity and sunlight. Use breathable bags to store them.
- Regular cleaning: Clean and condition your leather regularly to avoid dirt buildup and keep it smelling fresh.
- Use odor-absorbing products: Put activated charcoal or cedar blocks inside your leather bags or shoes to avoid odors.
Also read : How to Remove Leather Paint? | Save Your Leather with These Expert Tips
FAQs | How to Get Rid of Odour in Leather
Q.1 Why does leather smell?
Leather can develop odors from humidity, mold, smoke, or oils used in tanning. These smells can vary depending on storage conditions and the leather’s quality.
Q.2 How do I get rid of the musty smell of leather?
Clean the leather with vinegar and water to remove moldy odors, then let it air dry in a well-ventilated area.
Q.3 Can baking soda help remove odors from leather?
Yes, baking soda is a great natural odor absorber. Sprinkle it on your leather item, leave it overnight, and then shake or wipe it off.
Q.4 How long does it take for leather to lose its smell?
The length of time depends on the odor’s source. Light smells may disappear after hours of airing out, but stronger odors could take a few days.
Q.5 Can I use essential oils to freshen up leather?
Yes, essential oils like lavender or tea tree oil can freshen leather. Apply a few drops to a cloth and rub it gently on the leather for a pleasant scent.
Conclusion | How to Get Rid of Odour in Leather
Hope you got the answer of your question, which is how to get rid of odour in leather.Leather items are an investment, and keeping them smelling fresh is easier than you think. If it’s mold, smoke, or just a musty smell, there are simple ways to eliminate odors and bring your leather back to life.
With some care and the right methods, your leather goods will stay fresh, clean, and smell great for a long time.
Discover more : How to Remove Mould from Your Leather Jacket | Simple Tricks to Remove Mould