Leather is a natural substance that can attract bacteria and develop unpleasant odors as time goes on. While leather is favored for its durability and visual appeal, it can be more challenging to clean compared to many synthetic materials. It's important to avoid putting leather in the washing machine, and professional cleaning services can be quite costly. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to effectively eliminate odors from your beloved leather items. We have divided this into two sections: one that does not involve commercial products and another that does.
How To Remove Leather Odors Without Store Bought Cleaners
- Start by eliminating any visible dirt, mold, or residue from the leather's surface, as these can contribute to unpleasant odors. Use a damp cloth for this task. Avoid alcohol-based cleaners, as they can significantly harm the leather. While Febreze is not the worst option, it's best to steer clear of it, and ideally, you won't need it after following these steps.
- Wrap the item in newspaper or packing paper. After ensuring the item is dry from your initial cleaning, completely cover it with the paper. This type of paper is effective at absorbing unpleasant odors, making it helpful for deodorizing leather. For the best results, leave the item wrapped for a few days. This method is ideal for smaller items such as leather briefcases or laptop bags, rather than larger surfaces like car seats.
- Use a Vinegar Solution - If you're still not satisfied with the odor after the previous step, consider applying a simple vinegar solution to the area. Combine equal parts of distilled white vinegar and plain water. The acidity in this mixture will help neutralize odors and eliminate a significant amount of bacteria. Don't worry about the strong vinegar scent; it will dissipate over time! Always use a fresh, clean cloth to apply the solution. Be sure to rub gently and use the solution sparingly to prevent any additional damage. If your leather bag is dyed, it's a good idea to perform a small spot test before applying it more broadly!
- Consider using a baking soda solution. This method requires placing your item in a sealed container, making it unsuitable for larger items like sofas or leather furniture that cannot be wrapped. Baking soda is famous for its ability to absorb odors and is safe for leather. To use this method, put your item in a bag or pillowcase, sprinkle a light layer of baking soda over it and into any crevices, then seal the container for 24 hours. After a full day, vacuum up the baking soda and check if the smell has diminished.
Using Store Bought Solutions
You can purchase specially formulated leather cleaners that are effective in removing odors. These products are particularly beneficial for larger areas such as vehicles, sofas, and sizable clothing items, like jackets that have a chemical smell. They typically include straightforward instructions for use, but here are some important points to keep in mind before making a purchase.:
- You can typically find these products at hardware stores, shoe repair shops, or retailers with a wide selection of leather goods.
- Many of these solutions are tailored for particular items, so it's crucial to choose the appropriate one for your needs.
- Conditioners are distinct products. While many cleaners advertise that they can both eliminate odors and condition leather, the best outcomes are usually obtained by first using a specialized cleaner for odor removal, followed by a separate leather cream for conditioning.