How to eliminate bad odors from an old leather bag

If you are fond of keeping old leather bags, you might have experienced an unpleasant smell that can occur in the interior. It can be a musty odor, mildew, or even cigarette smoke smell that seemingly sticks to the leather. However, fear not, as you can eliminate bad odors from an old leather bag with easy and simple steps. Step 1: Clean the Interior and Exterior of the Leather Bag Before taking any step on how to eliminate bad odors from an old leather bag, the first and foremost thing to do is to clean the bag. Remove any debris, dirt, or dust from the interior and exterior of the bag with a dry cloth. Next, create a gentle cleaning solution by mixing 1 part mild soap with eight parts water. Use a soft-bristled brush or sponge to carefully apply the solution and scrub the exterior and interior of the leather bag. Gently blot the surface with a clean cloth to dry. Step 2: Apply Baking Soda For musty smells, sprinkle baking soda in the interior of the bag and let it sit for several hours or overnight. Baking soda is naturally an odor absorber and will absorb any lingering smells in the leather bag. Once the baking soda has been left to sit for a while, gently vacuum it with a brush attachment or wipe it away with a clean cloth. If the odor persists, repeat the process until the smell fades away. Step 3: Use White Vinegar Lingering cigarette smoke is notoriously difficult to eliminate from old leather bags. However, a simple solution is to apply white vinegar. Mix equal parts of water and vinegar, then dampen a clean cloth with the solution and rub it over the interior of the leather bag. Vinegar helps to neutralize any smoke smell in the leather. After wiping the leather bag thoroughly, leave it to air dry with the interior facing out. Once the bag is dry, take a deep sniff to check whether the odor remains. If the smell lingers, repeat the process until the leather bag is free of any smoke smell. Step 4: Apply Leather Conditioner The final step on how to eliminate bad odors from an old leather bag is applying leather conditioner. Leather conditioner helps to revitalize the leather by restoring natural oils, giving it a fresh smell. Use a clean cloth or soft-bristled brush to apply a small amount of leather conditioner to the exterior of the bag. Gently rub the conditioner onto the leather and work the cream into the fibers. Apply a thin layer of conditioner to the interior of the bag as well. It will also help to extend the life of the leather. In conclusion, eliminating bad odors from old leather bags may seem like a daunting task, but the steps mentioned above will make it easier. With this guide, it is possible to revitalize any old or musty leather bags that have been in storage without breaking the bank. Combining the use of baking soda, vinegar, and leather conditioner will leave the bag smelling brand new, ensuring that it can be used for years to come.