Quck answer
Leather is a durable and versatile material, but it can sometimes develop unpleasant odors. To remove sickening odors from leather, follow these steps:
1. Identify the source of the odor. It could be from food spills, pet accidents, or mold and mildew growth.
2. Clean the leather surface thoroughly using a mild soap and water solution. Gently scrub the affected area with a soft cloth or sponge.
3. If the odor persists, try using vinegar. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water, and apply the solution to the affected area. Let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it off.
4. Baking soda is also effective in absorbing odors. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda on the leather surface and leave it overnight. Vacuum or brush off the baking soda the next day.
5. For stubborn odors, consider using a specialized leather cleaner or odor neutralizer. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.
Remember to test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the leather before applying it to the entire surface.
A brand new leather item has a delightful smell. However, after a few years, you may find that the smell coming from your leather couch is not as appealing. Over time, leather can absorb sweat, pet odors, cigarette smoke, and other unpleasant smells. There are various methods to solve this issue, and the most effective one may depend on the specific smell you are dealing with.
Utilize Sunlight
Sunlight is a natural bacteria killer and can help eliminate any foul-smelling bacteria or mold spores present in your couch. Ideally, it is best to take your couch outside and place it in direct sunlight for several hours. If the couch is too heavy or difficult to move through your door frames, the next best option is to open your blinds and curtains as wide as possible and let the sun shine on your couch.
Sometimes, a little sunlight is all it takes to resolve odor problems in leather, especially if dampness is the cause of the smell.
Try Using Newspaper
If you suspect that the couch got wet and now emits a moldy smell, grab some old newspapers. Wrapping leather shoes, handbags, and other leather items in newspaper helps draw out moisture and musty odors. Obviously, you cannot wrap your entire couch in newspaper, but that does not mean you cannot use it at all.
Place pieces of newspaper flat underneath your couch cushions. You can also place the paper on top of the cushions, over the armrests, and along the back of the couch. Allow the paper to sit for a few days, giving it time to work.
Clean with Soap and Water
A smelly leather couch is also a dirty leather couch. A quick cleaning with a little soapy water can clean it up and eliminate the smell. Add a few drops of mild soap, such as dishwashing liquid or baby shampoo, to a bowl of warm water. Dampen a clean cloth in the soapy water and wipe down the couch.
It is fine to get the couch damp, but avoid getting it wet. Make sure you do not saturate it. Use a damp cloth without soap to rinse away any soap residue, and then dry the couch with another clean cloth.
Use Vinegar
If you browse housecleaning sites on the internet, you will soon discover that vinegar can be used for almost anything. One of its many great qualities is its ability to neutralize unpleasant smells. To use it on your couch, mix a solution of 50% water and 50% vinegar in a spray bottle, and spray it on your couch.
Just like with the soapy water, you want to dampen but not saturate the couch. Spray the vinegar, let it sit for a minute, and then wipe it away with a dry cloth. Of course, it is a good idea to test the vinegar spray on a hidden area before spraying your entire couch.
Sprinkle Baking Soda
If you are hesitant to use any liquids on your leather, or if you are working with suede, you can use baking soda to eliminate odors. Sprinkle some baking soda on your couch and let it sit for at least 15 minutes. If the smell is particularly strong, you can leave it for a longer period. Then, you can simply vacuum up the baking soda.
Options for Continuous Protection
After successfully eliminating the odor from your leather couch, there are several simple steps you can take to maintain its freshness. One method involves using a pair of old nylons, filling them with baking soda, and placing the satchel under or behind a couch cushion. Alternatively, you can also tuck a few dryer sheets under the cushions.
If you have a dog that enjoys napping on the couch, consider using a blanket where they sleep. This way, when the blanket starts to smell like a dog, you can easily toss it in the wash instead of having to clean the entire couch.
