Mold is a fungus that grows on dead or organic matter. There are thousands of species of molds and not all are bad.

What Causes Mold On Leather

The porousness of leather fabric can allow moisture to permeate its foundation. Excessive amounts of humidity and moisture and unused leather goods lying around for extended periods create conditions that enable mold to thrive.

Moreover, when leather is placed next to objects that have already begun to grow mold, the mold is likely to cling onto the leather too. Leather needs regular cleaning, conditioning, and protection to save it from molding and has increased chances of growing mold if left stored in a mildew-infested environment. However, it is imperative to ensure the water you use to treat it is clean and does not consist of chlorinated or tap water, otherwise the effects will be counterproductive.

Ventilation of leather goods and the absence of heat is necessary to keep mold at bay. Air movement from air conditioning systems and vents etc. in your house can spread airborne mold into your clothes and furniture and not just leather products deeming it dangerous for your environment in general. No vents should be directly blowing air into your leather possessions in storage or otherwise.

Is Mold On Leather Dangerous

No questions asked! Mold on leather is injurious to your health. It could permanently damage your leather if it grows on it. Mold spores cause respiratory diseases and allergic reactions when they are released into the air by mold infestations.

How To Protect Leather From Mold

• Use appropriate cleaners and keep all leather surfaces dry by wiping them down with moist cloths.
• Oils such as cedarwood, lavender, tea tree, citrus, and clove leaf are good non-toxic alternatives and come in handy as natural deodorizers and fungus repellents to prevent mold and mildew.
• Waxes that have a high level of paraffin like Carnauba whilst protecting against moisture also give a good shine.
• Small vacuum cleaner attachments help suck out the spores of mold found on furniture followed by cleaning with soap or diluted white vinegar.
• Areas with deep crevices can be covered by a rag dipped in mineral oil to wipe over till they are brought back to life as this adds a protective layer against future mold infestations.
• A solution of white vinegar and hydrogen peroxide kills mold on first contact. Thus, disabling growth beforehand.
• Sufficient airflow is vital to prevent mold as it stops recirculation into the leather.

Can Moldy Leather Be Saved

Normally we throw away things that are molding. But as far as leather is concerned, it’s a different story. It’s a valuable investment that cannot be discarded and can absolutely be saved. Don’t fret if your favorite leather jacket has caught some mold. There are plenty of foolproof ways with household items that will remove dirty mold from expensive designer leather products.

5 Ways To Remove Mold From Leather Jackets And Bags

• Mixing water and rubbing alcohol can work miracles in removing mold from jackets and bags. Soak a gentle cleaning cloth in the solution to wipe down the surface. Pay attention to the minute details and areas to get rid of the mold completely so as not to ignore the wrinkles unintentionally
• White vinegar diluted in water wiped over mold-infested areas kills off the mold.
• Baking soda sprinkled and left on the surface for 20 minutes followed by vacuuming it till it’s completely dissolved will help
• Dilute baby shampoo in water, dip a soft microfiber cloth in the solution, wipe the surface with this cloth, and then let it dry.
• A small portion of saddle soap rubbed onto the surface gently, followed by a moist towel wipe is the quickest way to get rid of mold.

How to Remove Mold From Leather Shoes

The simplest way to remove mold from leather shoes is through medical-grade isopropyl. Extremely diluted spirit with water also does the job as it will kill black spores on the inside of your shoes. The latter works best on small amounts of mold. Rubbing these types together will kill just about anything pronto!

Don’t let a little mold get you a whole lot worried. Try any of the tips mentioned above and find your leather goods looking as good as new, if not better.