How to Get Musty Smell out of Leather Coat?

The leather coats will outlive a person, making the classic clothes of choice for strength and style. However, these materials tend to pick up odors, particularly the musty odor and smell of cigarettes, that may reduce attractiveness. If you’re wondering “how to get musty smell out of leather coat?” this is where you should stop. This blog post will discuss ways of removing the musty and smoky smell from your beloved leather garment!

Understanding the Problem

The issue with the leather coats is the smell. Exposure to moisture and inadequate ventilation can result in musty odors. Smoke smells may also stick to it due to cigarette smoke or burning fire. When dried, these scents get absorbed in layers of the leather’s fibers, making it difficult to eliminate the smell and restore the coat’s initial odorless state. Therefore, the leather needs to be cleaned well by the specific leather cleaner who cleanses the cause of the odor without destroying the look.

Read more about “Are leather coats waterproof?”

Methods to Remove Musty Smells from a Leather Coat

How to get musty smell out of leather coat? - Here are detailed methods to remove musty smells from a garment:

• Air-Drying: Have someone air-dry your leather coat. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight as it might lead to leather drying. Alternatively, choose a cool place with maximum freshness of the air. Let the coat breath out for a couple of days.
• Baking Soda: Lightly sprinkle a cloth with fresh bicarbonate salt or directly onto the affected areas. Sprinkle baking soda on the fabric and let it settle for a few hours, preferably overnight. Baking soda is very effective at absorbing smells. Then, wipe off the baking soda using a soft brush or cloth.
• Activated Charcoal: Put loose activated charcoal (preferably inside a breathable bag or container) next to the leather jacket. Charcoal works so well for removing the unpleasant smell. Do not remove your charcoal from near your garment for some of its stink-sucking power to do its job.
• White Vinegar Solution: Fill your spray bottle with 50% water and the remaining half with white vinegar. Dab your lightly sprayed solution on the stained leather coat. The acids present in vinegar react and neutralize some of the odors. 
• Leather Cleaner: Buy a good quality leather cleanser to eliminate bad smells. Clean the garment according to the manufacturer's directives. Make sure the cleaners are suited for the kind of fabric that is used in the coat.
• Essential Oils: Mix some diluted essential oils (like Lavender oil, tea tree Oil, etc.) into a spray bottle with water. Spray the diluted essential oil solution lightly over the garment. The presence of natural deodorant in essential oil can assist in eliminating an unwanted smell or at least reduce its intensity.

Note that any of these methods should be first conducted on an unnoticeable small part to check whether this approach will harm the material or produce discoloration.

At Finest Leathers, wrap yourself in sophistication with our exquisite long brown leather coat. This coat is designed to blend timeless charm with modern elegance and embodies the discerning individual's luxury and grace!

Methods to Remove Smoke Smells from a Leather Coat

How to get smoke smell out of leather coat? - Here are effective methods to remove smoke smells:

• Sunlight Exposure: Hang the overcoat outdoors in direct sunlight. UV rays can help dissipate smoke odors and freshen up the leather. Be cautious not to leave it in direct sunlight for too long to prevent damage to the fabric.
• Activated Charcoal: Place activated charcoal or charcoal-based odor absorbers in a breathable bag and keep them alongside the leather coat. Charcoal is highly effective at absorbing lingering smoke odors. Leave the charcoal near the coat for a few days.
• Coffee Grounds: Fill a breathable bag or nylon stocking with coffee grounds and place it inside the leather coat. Coffee's natural properties can help neutralize smoke odors. Leave it inside it for a day or two to absorb the smell.
• White Vinegar Solution: Create a solution by mixing equal parts of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. Lightly spritz the solution onto the affected areas of the garment. Vinegar's acidic properties help neutralize odors. Allow the coat to air dry completely.
• Baking Soda: Sprinkle baking soda inside a clean cloth or directly onto the affected garment areas. Gently pat the baking soda into the leather and let it sit for several hours or overnight. Baking soda is excellent at absorbing odors. Afterward, use a soft brush or cloth to remove the baking soda residue.
• Professional Cleaning: Consider taking the overcoat to a professional cleaner experienced in handling leather garments. They have specialized products and techniques to remove stubborn smoke smells without damaging the fabric.
• Essential Oils: Mix a few drops of essential oils (such as lemon, orange, or cedarwood oil) with water in a spray bottle. Lightly mist the diluted essential oil solution. Essential oils possess natural deodorizing properties that can help mask and eliminate smoke odors.

Always perform a patch test in an inconspicuous area of the leather coat before applying any of these methods to ensure they do not cause discoloration or damage.

Preventive Measures to Maintain Freshness

After knowing “How to get musty smell out of leather coat?” here are preventive measures to maintain the freshness of your garments and prevent odors from returning:

1. Proper Storage: Store your garments in a breathable bag or cover when not in use. This protects it from dust, moisture, and potential exposure to odors that could penetrate the leather.
2. Ventilation: Allow your coat to breathe regularly. Avoid storing it in airtight or plastic bags for extended periods, as this can trap moisture and lead to musty odors. Instead, air it out occasionally in a well-ventilated area.
3. Regular Cleaning: Wipe your coat with a clean, damp cloth to remove dust, dirt, and surface residue. This prevents the buildup of particles that might contribute to odors.
4. Avoid Direct Heat and Sunlight: While sunlight can help eliminate odors, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or heat can damage leather. 
5. Use Leather Conditioner: Apply a leather conditioner specifically designed for your type of leather coat. Conditioning helps maintain the leather's suppleness and prevents it from drying out.
6. Handle with Care: Be mindful of how you handle your garments. Avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals, excessive moisture, or spills that could seep into the leather and cause odors.
7. Regular Inspections: Periodically inspect your leather coat for any signs of mold, mildew, or developing odors. Address any issues promptly to prevent them from worsening.
8. Deodorizing Packs or Sachets: Place sachets of natural deodorizers, like cedar chips or sachets with dried lavender, inside the garment bag or alongside the coat to help maintain a fresh scent.

Implementing these preventive measures can significantly reduce the likelihood of musty, or smoke smells returning to your leather coat. Consistent care and attention will help preserve its freshness and extend its lifespan.

Read more: How to store Leather Coats?

FinestLeathers - Premium Leather Care Solutions 

How to get musty smell out of leather coat? - Reviving a leather coat plagued by musty or smoke smells requires patience and the right approach. Utilizing the methods outlined above can effectively eliminate unwanted odors and restore your leather coat's freshness. Remember, preventive measures are vital in maintaining the pristine condition of your cherished leather garment for years to come.