How to Clean a Mold and Mildew Leather Coat
If your leather coat is stained with visible mold and mildew, you should use a 50/50 solution of water and rubbing alcohol to treat it. After applying the solution, you should use a clean washcloth to rub the mildew off. However, if the leather is light-colored, the treatment may result in discoloration.
Getting rid of visible mildew stains from leather
Visible mildew stains on leather can be an ugly sight. However, it is easy to get rid of them using household products. The first step is to wipe the stain with a dry cloth. Repeated wiping should help to remove the mildew. Then, leave the leather out of direct sunlight, which will dry it out. You can also leave the windows open to let the leather air dry. It should take about 24 hours for the leather to completely dry. A thorough drying is necessary to prevent mildew from coming back.
Once the leather is completely dry, you can begin to treat the stain. You can purchase a cleaner that contains rubbing alcohol and water. Apply it to the stain in circular motions, and let it dry. To make sure that the leather does not retain the mildew odor, you can also use a sealant.
Another option is to apply a solution of white vinegar and water. This solution contains a mild pH level and should remove the mildew from the leather. The mixture should be shaken for 30 seconds. After that, you should wipe off the excess liquid using a clean cloth. After that, you can let the leather dry overnight.
Removing relative humidity from the air
Keeping leather items dry is one of the best ways to clean them of mold and mildew. Mold grows in moist areas and appears faster if the relative humidity is high. To remove the excess humidity, you can use dehumidifiers. However, they can be difficult to empty and can increase your utility bill. Additionally, mold grows in dark, damp environments, so you should open your closet doors and windows to let natural light in.
High humidity can promote the growth of fungi and bacteria. These organisms are nourished by warm temperatures, high relative humidity, and poor ventilation. Static air at a relative humidity of more than 80% is favorable for mold growth, and an air temperature of 92% will encourage the growth of fungi and bacteria. Additionally, certain finishes and organic residues can enhance mildew growth.
Avoiding harsh chemical cleaners
Leather coats are vulnerable to mould and mildew attack if they are not properly cleaned or stored. Regular cleaning and airing can keep this problem at bay. When cleaning the affected area, you should be careful to avoid using any harsh chemical cleaners. If you must use a chemical cleaner, always test it first on a small patch to ensure it will not change the color of the leather. Also, avoid getting the leather overly wet.
You can use hydrogen peroxide to clean leather. This chemical will cause oxidation, which will kill molds. It also lifts mold from the textile. However, this chemical may bleach the leather coat, so you should use gloves to protect your skin.
Depending on the type of leather, you may have to use different cleaning solutions. Do not use ammonia or bleach based cleaners, as they may damage the finish of the leather. You can also use baby shampoo, although you must be careful when applying it. It is better to use a soft cloth to wipe the leather coat with soapy water, since it will not damage the finish.
Cleaning a moldy leather coat
If you have a leather coat that is starting to smell moldy, you can try cleaning it yourself. You can use a combination of rubbing alcohol and water to remove the mold. Use a clean cloth to apply the solution to the leather and wipe away the mold. After wiping it, allow the coat to air dry. It’s important to be careful not to overscrub the leather because this can damage it.
The first thing you need to do is determine the type of mold on your leather coat. Some types of mold are toxic to humans, and they cause multiple diseases. Make sure that you use safe chemicals when cleaning the leather. You should also wear a painter’s mask and rubber gloves while working. You should also make sure to work outdoors if possible.
Another way to clean a moldy leather coat is to soak it in water. It will help loosen the mold on the leather and prevent it from spreading. This is particularly important if the leather coat has a pigment coating. You can also clean it by using a damp cloth.
