Longlasting, comfortable, and beautiful are the words used to describe leather products.
Until, of course, they start to show signs of mold. Suddenly, that leather couch is not so beautiful.
However, it’s not just about appearances. Mold can cause chronic health conditions such as asthma, as well as allergic reactions. Individuals with existing health conditions, as well as infants, are especially vulnerable.
So if you’re wondering how to remove mold from leather, keep reading, this guide will help you restore your leather to a like-new condition.
How to Identify Mold
First, let’s briefly talk about how to identify mold. At first glance, mold may appear as a stain, usually appearing in shades of green or black.
However, mold isn’t a stain. It’s a fungal growth that spreads on different surfaces-usually decaying or damp surfaces. Mold can cause discoloration, damage, or a bad smell.
For these reasons, as well as the previously mentioned health reasons, it’s important to take care of mold immediately.
How to Remove Mold From Leather
The good news is that in most cases, getting rid of mold on leather is possible.
First, start out by protecting yourself. Wear protective gloves and a mask to avoid touching and inhaling mold spores.
Use a dry, clean cloth to wipe away loose surface mold. Then discard that cloth to prevent further mold.
Create a cleaning solution of equal parts water and white vinegar. Wipe the affected areas. Sprinkle baking soda on the affected areas, allowing it to sit for several hours.
Then, vacuum the baking soda up to absorb moisture and remove mold.
You can use saddle soap or a leather-specific cleaner to finish cleaning it. If desired, you can apply a leather conditioner to restore moisture.
How to Prevent Mold on Leather
Now that you have removed the mold, it’s time to prevent it from coming back.
First, address the issue that was originally causing the mold. Moisture control is the key to mold control. Aside from cleaning up leaks and spills quickly, you want to make sure your roof gutters are clean and functional, make sure your air conditioning drop pans are clean, and make sure that the ground slopes away from your building foundation.
The best way to prevent mold on your leather is to clean it regularly. A soft cloth or a brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner will safely clean your leather products without damaging them.
However, it’s not just about leather. You need to prevent damage throughout your home. In the San Diego area, you can prevent mold by controlling the humidity levels in your house, ventilating your home, and using mold-resistant materials when renovating or building a home.
For more information on preventing mold, check out our guide on preventing mold at home.
Remove Mold for Good
Now you know how to remove mold from leather. However, it’s important that you address the reasons for causing mold immediately; otherwise, it’s only going to come back.
That’s where Christian Brothers can help. We offer professional, certified mold remediation services in San Diego County.
Contact us for help with mold removal, or call us for 24-hour emergency service at 619-469-8955.