How to Get Smell Out of Leather Jacket? 7 Powerful Ways to Remove Odors

Do you want to know why your favorite leather jacket starts smelling funky over time? Smells can stick to your jacket and make you feel bad about wearing it, whether it’s a musty mildew scent, body odor, or even smoke.  Unlike fabric clothes, you can’t just toss your leather jacket into the washing machine. But don’t worry—there are simple and effective ways of how to get smell out of leather jacket without damaging them.

This guide dives into all the common smells leather jackets pick up, like mildew, cigarette smoke, and body odor, and shares foolproof methods to freshen them up. From baking soda hacks to vinegar tricks, we’ve got you covered. Let’s uncover these easy, DIY ways to deodorize your leather jacket and make it smell brand new again!

Why Does Leather Smell?

Leather is a natural product that can absorb the odors of its surroundings. The porous nature of leather means that it will absorb these smells, whether from exposure to damp areas, cigarette smoke or even your body odor. The good news? While these odors can be stubborn, they aren’t permanent.

How to Get Smell Out of Leather Jacket

Did you get caught in the rain with your leather jacket? Perhaps it was stored in a damp place? That musty mildew smell is common, but it doesn’t have to stick around. Here’s how to fix it:

Baking Soda to the Rescue

As an odor-neutralizing superhero, baking soda works particularly well for mildew smells.

Steps:

-On a flat, dry surface, lay your jacket so that it is out of the sunlight.

-Now pour a (generous) amount of baking soda over the musty spot.

-Let it sit for at least three hours (overnight works best!).

-Use a soft cloth or brush to brush off the baking soda.

This quick method works wonders to get the smell out of leather jackets caused by mildew.

Try a Vinegar Solution

Vinegar is another natural odor eliminator that’s perfect for stubborn smells.

Steps:

-Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a bowl.

-Take a clean cloth, dip it into the solution, and wring it until it is damp

-Rub the affected area (in circular motions) gently.

-Now wipe up the vinegar with another clean cloth, once it has sat for 5 minutes.

-Repeat if necessary.

Vinegar will help the smell go away and your leather will be fresh and clean.

How to Get Cigarette Smell Out of Leather

Leather jackets can smell unpleasant from the smoky environments it has been in—whether from cigarettes, a campfire or car fumes. Don’t fret! Here’s how to deal with it.

Use Dryer Sheets for a Fresh Scent

This is one of the easiest ways to freshen your jacket.

Steps:

-Put your leather jacket in a big zipper bag — an airtight bag — or something containing no air.

-Add a couple of dryer sheets to the bag.

-Seal the bag tight and leave the bag in a cool, dry place for a few days.

-The best results are achieved by changing the dryer sheets daily.

Not only will this remove the cigarette smell, but it’ll leave a pleasant fragrance behind.

Alcohol Spray for Deep Cleaning

A strong smoke smell can be neutralized by alcohol, which is a versatile cleaner.

Steps:

-Fill a small spray bottle with rubbing alcohol.

-Lightly spray the inside and outside of your jacket—avoid soaking it.

-Dry your jacket in a well-ventilated area.

Do this whenever you need to. Following that, a light coat of leather condition will keep the jacket soft and protected.

How to Get Body Odor Out of Leather

Body odor (BO) is one of the most common smells leather jackets absorb, especially on the lining. Here’s how to tackle it:

Spot Clean with Detergent

Clean the fabric lining of your leather with a gentle detergent, without damaging the leather.

Steps:

-Mix 4 cups of water with 1 teaspoon of mild detergent.

-Dip the sponge in the solution and squeeze so that most of the water is out.

-Clean the lining of the armpit area of your jacket gently.

-Wipe off any detergent residue using the sponge

-A nice way to air out is to hang the jacket in a cool, dry place.

Avoid getting detergent on the leather and discolor it.

Baking Soda and Water Combo

Mix baking soda with water, it’s a bit stronger solution for extra stubborn BO smells.

Steps:

-Rejuvenate your smelly armpits by spilling the baking soda over it.

-Spray lightly with water using a spray bottle on these spots.

-The mixture should sit for 30 minutes.

-Let the jacket air dry by wiping away the baking soda with a damp cloth.

It’s an easy and effective method for removing smell from leather jackets due to body odor.

Additional Tips for Leather Care

Regular Aeration

Light odors can sometimes be removed simply by allowing your leather jacket to air out in a well-ventilated spot. Keep leather out of direct sunlight or it will dry out and become damaged.

Use a Leather Conditioner

For the cleaning, you also need a leather conditioner to restore moisture and keep the jacket nice, soft and shiny.

FAQs

Does the Leather Jacket Smell Go Away?

Yes! If you take proper care and give it a good clean, then there is a fantastic chance that the odors in leather jackets can be removed completely.

How Long Does It Take to Remove Odors?

The time depends on the smell. In 30 minutes it can take care of body odor, but cigarette smells may take longer days of treatment.

Is Febreze Safe for Leather Jackets?

While Febreze may work to some degree, it’s best opt for methods formulated specifically for leather to avoid damage.

Final Words

Your leather jacket is more than just an outfit—it’s an investment. Like any prized possession though it needs proper care. From the timeless elegance of leather to its unbeatable durability, there’s no reason to let pesky smells ruin its appeal.

Now that you know how to get the smell out of leather jacket effectively, these tried and tested methods will be helpful to you. Next time, if your leather isn’t smelling its best, don’t freak out—just get some baking soda or vinegar or dryer sheets, and let the solutions do their thing!