How to Clean Mold Off Leather Shoes
There are several ways to remove mould from leather shoes. The first method is to wipe off the surface mould using a damp cloth. Then, leave the shoes to dry. You can also use Silica gel or Alcohol. All these solutions are effective for removing mould from leather shoes. Regardless of the method you use, it is important to use a solution that is safe for your shoes.
Vinegar
If you’ve ever wondered how to clean mold from your leather shoes, vinegar is a proven method that works effectively on most types of mold. To clean your shoes, simply dilute white vinegar with lukewarm water. Make sure not to use boiling water since it can deform the leather. In addition to white vinegar, you can also use a mixture of tea tree oil and water to help mask the smell.
Once you’ve removed the mold, you should carefully dry the shoes. If possible, place them outside to dry. If the weather is not conducive to drying the shoes, bring them inside.
Bleach
If you’ve noticed mold on your leather shoes, there’s an easy way to get rid of it. You can use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. These ingredients are available at craft stores, and they help to absorb moisture. Another option is to leave your shoes outside in the sun for a while. Ultimately, sunlight will kill the mold.
You can also use denatured alcohol, which can also help to clean mold. However, you need to be very careful while using these products because they may damage the leather. To avoid causing further damage to your shoes, always test a small spot first. You should also allow your shoes to dry completely before you begin cleaning them.
Silica gel
If you want to prevent mold on leather shoes, it is important to prevent moisture buildup. To do this, you can fill a small sachet with silica gel and store it in your shoes. You should change the sachet periodically. In addition to using silica gel as a mold remover, you can also place salt or baking soda in your shoes to absorb excess moisture. This method is not ideal if your shoes are frequently worn and stored in a humid environment, as it may attract pests and may cause mold growth.
Another way to remove mold from leather shoes is to use a cleaning solution made of vinegar and water. A 12% vinegar solution is ideal for this. It is important to apply the cleaning solution using a wet cloth or sponge. This ensures that the whole shoe is covered with the solution. When it dries, you need to wipe it off carefully.
Alcohol
Alcohol can be used to clean leather. You can mix rubbing alcohol with water and use the solution on a cloth to apply to the moldy area. Make sure to wring the cloth out before applying it to the leather. Apply the solution to a small area on the leather and gently scrub it. Do not scrub too hard because it will cause more damage to the leather.
When using alcohol to clean leather shoes, you must use equal parts of water. The mixture should soak in the leather for about 3 minutes and then you can wipe it off with a soft cloth. If mold and mildew are still present in the leather, you should repeat the cleaning process.
Removing relative humidity
When cleaning mould off leather shoes, it is important to remove the relative humidity first. The reason for this is because mould needs moisture to grow. This moisture can come from perspiration or a moist room. If you can remove the relative humidity, the mould will not grow on your shoes. There are several ways to do this depending on the type of material of your shoes. Regular vinegar is the best option, although you should keep in mind that it can be harsh on leather. For softer leather, you may want to mix it with a small amount of lemon juice to make it more gentle.
Another option is to mix vinegar with water. This is effective for removing most types of mold. A half-cup solution of each ingredient will work. Apply the solution to the leather and wipe with a clean cloth. Repeat this process until the mold is no longer visible. Then, allow the shoes to dry in the sun.
