Removing Odors
If your previously loved vintage item has a detestable odor like cigarette smoke, its going to take some work to get it out, but it is not impossible.First try cleaning the leather item. If cleaning the leather doesn’t work try one (or a few) of these remedies at home.
Febreeze
If the leather item has a lining, Febreeze is a great first response. It will undoubtedly take the smell out of any fabric. For the leather part of the item, it is possible to use Febreeze even though it is not recommended for use on leather by the manufacturer due to the possibility of staining or dye removal.
A spot test before applying the Febreeze to the entire item is essential to ensure that you will not damage the leather by using it. If the spot test shows no change to the leather, saturate the item inside and out with Febreeze and allow to dry flat.
Baking Soda
Baking soda can be used a few different ways to remove odors from leather, all of which are very gentle, however it is always best to perform a spot test to be safe.
- Dry Baking Soda
Put Item in a paper bag or pillow case with an open box of baking soda for at least 24 hours. You may also sprinkle baking soda into the pockets and interior of the item or fill a sock with baking soda and leave it inside. - Baking Soda Solution
Mix one teaspoon or baking soda with one liter of warm water and saturate the leather item (you may also increase the mixture and soak the item). Rinse item and dry flat.[/li
Vinegar
- Dilute vinegar in equal parts warm water and let item soak. Rinse and repeat. Allow to dry.
- Sponge the item with straight vinegar and rinse. May need to be repeated several times.
Always use white vinegar as other vinegars may stain
