Mold and mildew can cause permanent damage to leather clothing, purses, shoes, or sheepskin boots. It is important to take action and remove the mold as soon as you see it. In this article, you will find out how to remove mold from leather shoes in an effective and safe way.
By following these steps carefully, you will be able to remove the mold from your leather shoes without damaging them. So let’s get started!
Identify the Mold
Identifying the mold is an important step when trying to remove it from leather shoes. It is often difficult to tell the difference between mildew and mold. If you notice a black or green fuzzy growth, then it is likely a mold. Mildew is usually gray and fuzzy. To make sure, you can take a cotton swab and dab it on the growth. If it is mold, the color of the cotton swab will turn black or green. Once you have identified the mold, you can move onto the next step of cleaning it off your leather shoes.
9 Way to Remove Mold from Leather Shoes
1. Use a Specialized Cleaner
Using a specialized cleaner is an effective way to remove mold from leather shoes. Choose a cleaning product specifically designed for leather and follow the instructions on the label. Most cleaners contain a combination of detergents, waxes, and polishes to help clean the leather without damaging it. Apply the cleaner to a soft cloth and gently rub onto the affected area. Once the cleaner has been applied, use a damp cloth to wipe off any residual cleaner. Allow the shoe to dry completely before wearing it again.
2. Use a Saddle Soap Solution
Using a saddle soap solution is another effective way to remove mold from leather shoes. Start by making a saddle soap solution by adding 1 tablespoon of saddle soap (available in most stores) to 1 cup of warm water. Dip a soft cloth into the solution and wring it out before using it to rub the leather shoes. Make sure to use gentle circular motions when rubbing the leather and avoid using too much pressure. Wipe away the excess solution with a dry cloth and leave the shoes to air dry. Once the leather is dry, you may notice some residue left behind from the saddle soap, which can be removed with a damp cloth.
3. Using Rubbing Alcohol and Water
Using rubbing alcohol and water is an effective way to remove mold from leather shoes. To do this, mix equal parts of cool water and rubbing alcohol in a clean container. Then, use a clean white cloth dipped in the mixture to wipe down the leather. You can use a cotton swab to clean any crevices or intricate details on the shoe. Finally, wipe the leather with a clean cloth. It’s important to note that you should test this method out on a small hidden area first, like the edge of the shoe tongue, before fully applying it to the shoe.
4. Using Bleach Powder and Cold Water
Using Bleach Powder and Cold Water is a powerful way to remove mold from leather shoes. First, mix one part bleach powder with four parts cold water in a bowl. Then, dip a cotton swab into the mixture and apply it to the affected areas of your leather shoes. Leave the solution on for about 10 minutes before rinsing it off with cold water. Finally, use a clean cloth to dry your shoes. Be sure to take all necessary precautions when using bleach powder and never leave it on for too long as it can damage your leather shoes.
5. Using White Vinegar and Warm Water
White vinegar is a natural mild acid that can be used to effectively remove mold from leather shoes. Start by mixing equal parts white vinegar and warm water in a spray bottle. Spray the moldy areas of the shoes and allow to sit for a few minutes. Use a soft-thistle brush or rag to gently scrub the affected areas. Finally, wipe away any excess liquid with a clean, dry cloth and allow the shoes to air dry. Repeat this process as necessary until all of the mold has been removed.
6. Using Baking Soda
Baking soda is a great option for cleaning leather without damaging it. To use baking soda, mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 1 cup of warm water and stir until dissolved. Dip a clean cloth in the mixture, then wring it out so that it’s damp. Gently scrub the moldy areas with the cloth, then wipe it off with a dry cloth. If the mold is difficult to remove, you can mix a paste of baking soda and water, apply it to the affected area, and let it sit for five minutes before wiping off.
7. Using Essential Oils
Using essential oils can be a successful way to remove mold from leather shoes. The antibacterial and antifungal properties in essential oils make them an effective mold remover. Essential oils like tea tree oil, lemon oil, and lavender oil are great for this purpose.
To use essential oils, first mix two to three drops of the oil with two tablespoons of olive oil or almond oil. Dip a clean cloth in the mixture and rub it on the affected area. Make sure you rub gently so as not to damage the leather. After rubbing the cloth on the shoe, let it dry naturally. Once dry, wipe away any residue with a dry cloth. This method should help remove the mold from your shoes.
8. Using Lemon Juice and Salt Solution
Using Lemon Juice and Salt Solution is an effective way to remove hard mold from leather shoes. Start by mixing one part lemon juice and two parts salt in a bowl. Using a clean cloth, dip it into the mixture and rub it onto the moldy areas of the shoes. Leave the mixture on the shoes for about 10 minutes to allow it to work its magic. Then, rinse the shoes with a damp cloth, and wipe them with a dry cloth to remove any remaining residue. Finally, place your shoes in direct sunlight for an hour or two to help remove any remaining odors.
9. Place Your Shoes in the Sunlight
One of the best ways to prevent and remove mold from leather shoes is to place them in direct sunlight. Sunlight is a natural disinfectant and can help to kill off mold spores. Make sure that the shoes are clean and dry before placing them in the sun. Place them in direct sunlight for at least an hour, preferably more if possible. This can help to reduce the moisture levels in the shoes and increase their resistance to mold growth. Once the shoes have been exposed to sunlight, store them in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. This will help to keep the leather dry and reduce the chance of mold growth.
Here is also a video guide to use
Final Words
Mold on leather shoes can be a difficult problem to solve, but luckily, there are several methods you can use to remove it. Depending on the type of mold present, you can choose the safest and most effective solution for your shoes. Remember to always use a soft-bristled brush or rag to scrape off the mold, and never use a hard-bristled brush or abrasive cleaner.
Dhare is a popular blogger and also runs a boutique business. He has a lot of years of experience, so he knows a lot about fashion in general. So, he is sharing his information and technical stuff in this diary.
