Leather is a natural material and is porous and hence can absorb odor. Proper care is important to preserve leather and eliminating bad smells forms and important part of it. There are numerous ways to get rid of smells and restore the clean, fresh scent of your leather goods. We'll explain how to get rid of the smell from leather in this blog post, along with some quick tips and tricks.
Understanding Why Leather Holds Smell
Since leather is made of natural animal hide, it has pores that allow it to readily absorb and retain odors. These pores take in moisture and airborne particles like sweat, smoke, and food odors. Once absorbed, the odors get submerged deep into the leather, making it difficult to remove them.
General Tips for Removing Odors from Leather
Here are some tips to eliminate general smells from leather:
Allow air drying – Place the leather item in a well-ventilated place away from direct sunlight so that fresh air can reduce the odor.
Use baking soda – Sprinkle baking soda on leather goods (like leather jackets) or in the inner side of the item (like bags or shoes), allow it to remain so for 24–48 hours, then shake or vacuum it off.
Wipe with vinegar solution – Mix white vinegar and water equally, use a damp cloth to gently wipe the surface of the leather. Allow it to dry.
Use activated charcoal or coffee grounds – Place the leather item in a box having a bowl of activated charcoal or dry coffee grounds nearby, it is important to remember to not directly place it on the leather. Leave it for a few days.
Clean and condition – To keep it soft and hydrated, use a leather conditioner after using a leather cleaner to remove dust.
Avoid strong chemicals – Steer clear of harsh detergents, bleach, and ammonia as they can harm leather.
The above-mentioned tips help eliminate smoke, musty and mildew smells out of leather.
How to Remove Cat Pee Smell from Leather
Eliminating cat pee smell can be tough but here’s a quick and effective guide to remove cat pee smell from leather:
1. Blot the Area (if fresh)
Use a paper towel or dry cloth to gently dab the urine; do not rub.
2. Clean with Vinegar Solution
Combine equal amounts of water and white vinegar to make a mixture. Wipe the afflicted area with a cloth that has been lightly moistened with this mixture. Vinegar kills bacteria and neutralizes odors. Let it air dry on its own.
3. Apply Baking Soda
Sprinkle the dried area with baking soda. After letting it sit for 12 to 24 hours, vacuum or wipe it off. This aids in absorbing residual odors.
4. Use Enzyme Cleaner (Leather-Safe)
Use a pet enzyme cleaner that is safe for leather if the smell persists. This helps in the molecular breakdown of urine. But test on a small area first.
5. Condition the Leather
Use a leather conditioner after cleaning to keep the leather supple and replenish moisture.
Tips to Remember
Avoid the use of harsh cleaners or ammonia (they can damage leather or promote repeat marking).
Avoid over-wetting the leather.
Preventing Smells in Leather
Here’s how to keep your leather goods such as leather jackets fresh with prevention and routine care:
1. Keep Leather Clean
To get rid of dust, perspiration, and body oils, wipe your leather jackets frequently with a gentle, dry cloth.
Using leather cleansers occasionally helps avoid dirt accumulation.
2. Allow Proper Airflow
Steer clear of plastic bags and crowded areas when storing leather goods, especially leather jackets.
When storing leather goods, use cotton covers or breathable clothing bags.
3. Avoid Damp Conditions
Mold and mildew, which have a musty odor, grow when there is moisture present.
Keep leather in cool, dry places. Activated charcoal pouches or silica gel can also aid in absorbing surplus moisture.
4. Condition Periodically
Use a leather conditioner every 3–6 months to maintain suppleness and avert cracking, which can trap smells.
Choose conditioners with neutral or natural scents.
5. Keep Away from Smoke & Strong Odors
Avoid wearing or storing leather near kitchen fumes, cigarette smoke, or perfumes for long durations.
6. Use Preventive Deodorizers
Place baking soda in a breathable pouch inside bags or shoes as it helps absorb bad smells.
Also, cedar balls or sachets with lavender or activated charcoal are helpful.
Tip for Leather Jackets and Bags
After each use:
Hang the leather jacket in an airy place.
Empty bags and open compartments so moisture and trapped air can escape.
When to seek Professional Help
If leather smells persist despite home cleaning, it's ideal to seek professional help particularly for mold, pet urine, smoke damage, or delicate versions of leather such as suede or nubuck. Experts use safe, deep-cleaning methods that do not damage leather.
Conclusion
It can be difficult to remove the smell from real lambskin leather , but with the correct method, you can get rid of bad smells and restore the former splendour of your leather item. By taking these actions, you can effectively get rid of the leather odor and prolong the life of your leather item.