A premium leather jacket is an undisputed symbol of style and durability. However, the excitement of a new purchase can often be dampened by a sharp, pungent odor. Whether it is a chemical scent from the tanning process or a musty smell from storage, learning how to get rid of leather smell effectively is essential to enjoying your investment.
In this guide, we will explore 9 expert-approved methods on how to get rid of leather smell, explain why new leather smells, and help you distinguish between natural hide scents and harmful chemicals.
I. Why Does My New Leather Jacket Smell?
Before diving into how to get rid of leather smell, it’s important to understand the source. Most “new leather smells” come from the tanning process. According to the Leather Working Group (LWG), various tannins, fish oils, and finishing agents are used to preserve the hide.
While many wonder, “Is the smell of leather jackets formaldehyde?”, the answer is usually no. The odor is typically caused by nitrates and tanning salts. However, lower-quality leather processed with poor regulations can contain traces of VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds). This is why choosing factory-direct, high-quality Sheepskin Leather from reputable brands like Caesar Jackets is crucial.
II. 9 Effective Ways: How to Get Rid of Leather Smell
1. The Natural Air-Drying Method
The simplest way regarding how to get rid of leather smell is oxidation.
Action: Hang your jacket in a dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
Pro Tip: Lightly mist the air near the jacket with a diluted vinegar solution (1 part vinegar, 3 parts water) to neutralize alkaline odors.
2. The Steam Deodorizing Hack
Steam helps open the leather pores, allowing trapped odors to escape.
Action: Hang the coat in a bathroom after a hot shower. Let the steam work for 2 hours, then move it to a ventilated room to dry. This is a top recommendation for how to get rid of leather smell without using harsh chemicals.
3. Activated Charcoal or Grapefruit Peels
Natural absorbents are excellent for how to get rid of leather smell.
Action: Place the jacket in a garment bag with 2-3 grapefruit peels or a few sachets of activated charcoal. Leave it for 48 hours. The citrus oils mask the scent while charcoal absorbs it.
4. The Cornflakes & Camphor Technique (For Sheepskin)
Specifically for removing the “gamey” smell sometimes found in Men’s Biker Jackets:
Action: Sprinkle a small amount of cornflakes on the leather surface and place it in a bag with camphor for a few days. The camphor neutralizes the organic scent effectively.
5. Professional Leather Cleaning Agents
If the smell persists, use a specialized pH-balanced cleaner. Refer to the Leather Conservation Centre for advice on choosing agents that won’t strip natural oils while you focus on how to get rid of leather smell.
6. The Baking Soda Trick
Baking soda is a universal deodorizer.
Action: Place your jacket in a large plastic bag with an open box of baking soda (do not let the powder touch the leather directly). Seal the bag for 24 hours.
7. Vinegar & Warm Water Wipe
Vinegar is a natural acetic acid that breaks down odors.
Action: Gently wipe the lining (not just the exterior) with a damp cloth dipped in a vinegar-water mix. This is highly effective for how to get rid of leather smell caused by mold or mildew.
8. Professional Dry Cleaning
When DIY methods fail, take your jacket to a specialist. Professional dry cleaners use high-efficiency solvents that deep-clean the fibers and eliminate stubborn chemical odors.
9. The Ventilated Plastic Bag & Hairdryer Method
Action: Place the jacket in a large bag, leaving a small opening. Use a hairdryer on a COOLDOWN or LOW setting to blow air through the bag. This forced ventilation speeds up the process of how to get rid of leather smell.
III. Common Mistakes to Avoid
While searching for how to get rid of leather smell, many people accidentally damage their garments.
Avoid Heavy Perfume: Spraying perfume directly on leather can cause permanent stains and create an even worse “mixed” odor.
No High Heat: Never put your leather jacket in a tumble dryer or use high-heat settings on a hairdryer. This will cause the leather to shrink and crack. Refer to Wikipedia’s Leather Care for more on heat damage.
IV. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take for the leather smell to go away?
With proper ventilation, most odors dissipate within 1 to 2 weeks. Using the charcoal or steam methods can shorten this to 3 days.
Is the leather smell toxic?
Natural tanning smells are not toxic. However, if the smell is extremely chemical and causes headaches, it may contain excessive VOCs. This is why we recommend buying from Caesar Jackets, where we prioritize safe, high-quality tanning processes.
V. Conclusion: Enjoy Your Scent-Free Style
Learning how to get rid of leather smell is part of the “break-in” journey for any leather enthusiast. By using these 9 methods, you can ensure your jacket smells as fresh as it looks. Remember, the best way to avoid bad smells is to invest in premium, factory-direct leather that has been treated with care.
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