Terms of UseHow to Clean Mold from Leather Explore this Article methods 1 Cleaning Suede and Nubuck 2 Removing with Soap 3 Removing with Vinegar 4 Cleaning Unfinished Leather + Show 1 more... - Show less... Other Sections Expert Q&A Tips and Warnings Related Articles References Article Summary Co-authored by Susan Stocker
Last Updated: May 27, 2025 Approved
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This article was co-authored by Susan Stocker. Susan Stocker runs and owns Susan’s Green Cleaning, the #1 Green Cleaning Company in Seattle. She is well known in the region for outstanding customer service protocols — winning the 2017 Better Business Torch Award for Ethics & Integrity —and her energetic support of green cleaning practices. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. This article received 12 testimonials and 83% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 398,482 times.
Whether you’re dealing with furniture, cars, shoes, or jackets, mold and mildew stains on leather must be dealt with immediately. Be gentle as you clean your leather goods and be sure to test any cleaners -- household or otherwise -- before applying to the entirety of the stain.
Steps
Method 1 Method 1 of 4:
Cleaning Suede and Nubuck
1 Apply a layer of petroleum jelly. Test the effect of the petroleum jelly on a small area that won’t be noticeable. Apply the petroleum jelly on the moldy areas creating only a thin layer. You may also use a suede cleaner but read the label of the cleaning product to ensure that it works on mold and mildew.
Nubuck can easily change colour so make sure the cleaning product you use has been tested before applying.
2 Apply rubbing alcohol with water. Mix equal parts rubbing alcohol and water for stronger stains. If the mold remains after you have tried using jelly or suede cleaner, add the water and rubbing alcohol mixture onto the fabric.
Test the rubbing alcohol mixture on a small portion of the mold stain to ensure that it does not change the colour of the material.
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3 Wipe away the mildew. Moisten a soft cloth rag or sponge with water. Rub the jelly or suede cleaner into the material gently with the cloth rag or sponge. Do the same with the rubbing alcohol mixture for stronger mold stains.
Repeat the process as necessary but do not use force if the stain refuses to go away. You could damage the material if you aren’t careful.
4 Allow the material to dry. Set the material aside for the suede or nubuck to dry completely. Use a suede brush to restore the texture. A suede brush can be purchased online or at your local shoe store.
If your material is still stained with mold, consult a professional suede cleaner.
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Method 2 Method 2 of 4:
Removing with Soap
1 Remove loose mold. Using a brush with soft bristles, remove any loose mold from the material. Try to remove mold outdoors to avoid scattering spores of mildew within your home. Make sure to wash your brush before using if it is old.[1]XResearch source
2 Vacuum the leather. Remove mold from panels or creases with the hose of your vacuum. Dispose of the vacuum contents immediately as you don’t want the spores of the mold to spread. Remove the mold from your home as soon as possible.[2]XResearch source
3 Soap your material. Make sure your leather has a finish otherwise avoid getting it wet. Finished leather means that there is a coating of pigment atop. Use a sponge to apply thick soap thuds onto the mold and use a damp cloth to wipe it away.[3]XResearch source
Avoid getting leather overly wet or you might damage it.
Test whether you have stained leather by dropping a tiny amount of water on to it. If the water darkens or stains the area, do not proceed with soap or water. If the mold is near zippers, the fungi or bacteria may have moved to the inner layer of your cushion or clothing. Treat the inner layer as well or replace cushions completely.
4 Wipe with diluted alcohol. Dip a cloth in a mixture of 1 cup denatured or isopropyl alcohol and 4 cups water. Gently wipe your material with the cloth to remove remaining mildew. Do not soak the material. Let the leather dry thoroughly.[4]XResearch source
Again, only use diluted if you are sure it is finished leather. Make sure to test a tiny portion of the leather before applying the alcohol mixture. Even if you are dealing with finished leather, the alcohol mixture can still damage it.[5]XResearch source
5 Airing the frame (Optional.) Air out the inner portions of a furniture frame if you suspect mold has crept past the upholstery. Be sure to open the underside dust cover and call a disinfecting and fumigating service if the mold is severe.[6]XResearch source
Inquire if the disinfecting service has an “ozone chamber”. If so, ask to have your furniture placed inside for a minimum of 48 hours.
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Method 3 Method 3 of 4:
Removing with Vinegar
1 Dry brush the surface. Using a stiff nylon brush, dry brush the material to remove as much mold and mildew from the surface as you can. Mold spores spread easily so try to do this outdoors so you don’t spread the mold.
2 Apply a vinegar-water mixture. Mix equal parts vinegar and water and test the solution on a tiny part of the material. If the color doesn’t change, continue to clean the mold off with the mixture. Do not over saturate the material.
3 Wipe clean and dry. Dip a soft cloth in the vinegar mixture and gently clean the material. Do not use force as you may damage it. Set the material aside and let dry.
This method commonly works well for leather shoes but can be applied to other leather goods as long as you test how the vinegar mixture affects it to make sure there is no discoloration.
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Method 4 Method 4 of 4:
Cleaning Unfinished Leather
1 Apply a saddle soap. Saddle soap can be purchased online or at a leather goods store. Use only about a dime-sized portion on a damp sponge or cloth rag. Work the saddle soap into the cracks of the leather by creating a light lather.[7]XResearch source
Test to see if you are dealing with unfinished leather by dropping a tiny amount of water on an inconspicuous spot. If the spot darkens or changes color, you are dealing with unfinished leather.
Read the label of your cleaner and test a small amount on an inconspicuous spot on the leather. Unfinished leather can be damaged easily because it is very porous and the wrong cleaner can easily penetrate beneath the surface and damage it.[8]XResearch source
Always avoid using these cleaning products on unfinished leather:
Detergents
Household soaps including hand soap, facial cleansers, and dishwashing soap
Hand creams or lotions
Hand wipes or baby wipes
Lanolin creams
Rubbing alcohol
2 Wipe the leather clean. Wipe off the soap with another damp cloth. Wipe away the residue to thoroughly clean the material. Do not apply too much force as you may damage the material.[9]XResearch source
3 Allow the leather to dry. Let the saddle soap dry overnight but do not expose the material to the sun as it may cause the leather to fade. Avoid direct heat sources and allow the leather to air dry.[10]X Expert Source Susan StockerCleaning GuruExpert Interview
4 Condition the leather. Treat the leather with a conditioner once dry. Remember to test the condition on an inconspicuous portion of the material. Read the label to ensure the cleaner is right for your leather. Mink oil works well with most unfinished leather. Purchase conditioners are your local leather goods store or shoe store.[11]XResearch source
Conditioning helps protect the leather from damage and helps it retain its look.
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Expert Q&A
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Question How can you remove black mold from furniture? Susan Stocker Professional Cleaner Susan Stocker runs and owns Susan’s Green Cleaning, the #1 Green Cleaning Company in Seattle. She is well known in the region for outstanding customer service protocols — winning the 2017 Better Business Torch Award for Ethics & Integrity —and her energetic support of green cleaning practices. Susan Stocker Professional Cleaner Expert Answer There is no eco-friendly way to kill black mold, and it can be dangerous. For these reasons, it's best if you have a professional remove the mold. If you do want to remove it yourself, be sure to wear a respirator and seal off the room where the moldy furniture is located to keep the spores from travelling to other parts of your home. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 0 Helpful 2
Question The mold has spread everywhere - should I just toss the settee? Community Answer Nope. Not yet. Hose it down outside and brush off the mildew with a soft bristled brush. Use a 50/50 blend of vinegar to adjust the pH of the leather and make it inhospitable for future mildew growth. Apply a good cream leather conditioner. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 15 Helpful 36
Question What can I use to get mold out of a white leather jacket? Community Answer Zep makes a great mold and mildew stain remover. Use it 50/50 mixed with water and apply with a small sponge. Rinse with clear running water when the desired lightening occurs. This may also bleach out the leather, so you should try it in an inconspicuous spot first. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 10 Helpful 22
See more answers Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement
Tips
Use a dehumidifier to prevent the build of moisture, which breeds the mold and mildew. Dehumidifiers can be found in a variety of sizes and prices. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
Treat mildew and mold as soon as you discover it as it may penetrate deep into cushions or materials. Severe cases may cause irreversible damage. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
Contact the manufacturer of your leather product for a list of recommended cleaning products. Some manufacturers may offer their own cleaning service. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
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Warnings
Mold in your furniture may be extremely difficult to clean. Replace cushions or the furniture itself if you’re dealing with a severe case. Thanks Helpful 9 Not Helpful 4
Sunshine naturally kills mildew but be aware it may also discolor leather if not properly treated. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
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Co-authored by: Susan Stocker Professional Cleaner This article was co-authored by Susan Stocker. Susan Stocker runs and owns Susan’s Green Cleaning, the #1 Green Cleaning Company in Seattle. She is well known in the region for outstanding customer service protocols — winning the 2017 Better Business Torch Award for Ethics & Integrity —and her energetic support of green cleaning practices. This article has been viewed 398,482 times. 23 votes - 83% Co-authors: 17Updated: May 27, 2025 Views: 398,482Article SummaryX
To clean mold from leather, use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe away any remaining mold. Then, apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or a mixture of equal parts rubbing alcohol and water. Make sure the moldy area is completely covered with the jelly or alcohol. Rub the product into the material gently to remove any marks and stains, and let the material dry before wearing them. Scroll down to read tips on cleaning unfinished leather!Did this summary help you?YesNo
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Reader Success Stories
Catherine Hoy
Jan 29, 2017
"I found two pair of my good shoes which had not been worn for months, and were in my closet in a shoe bag with mold spots. I followed the instructions, took them outside and brushed them, which mostly removed the mold or mildew, then I used the 1/2 and 1/2 white vinegar and water to go over the whole shoe, especially in the seams. I let them air dry, and they look like new. Thank you for your help."..." more
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Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Co-authored by: Susan Stocker Professional Cleaner Co-authors: 17Updated: May 27, 2025 Views: 398,48283% of readers found this article helpful. 23 votes - 83% Click a star to add your vote
Catherine Hoy
Jan 29, 2017
"I found two pair of my good shoes which had not been worn for months, and were in my closet in a shoe bag with mold spots. I followed the instructions, took them outside and brushed them, which mostly removed the mold or mildew, then I used the 1/2 and 1/2 white vinegar and water to go over the whole shoe, especially in the seams. I let them air dry, and they look like new. Thank you for your help."..." more
Gina Veneziale
Feb 19, 2017
"I discovered a bright green powdered substance on an antique mirror I had stored in my clothes closet. Upon further investigation, discovered everything this mold spread to and ruined. However, after reading how to remove from leather, I saved my things. "..." more
Robin Rundblad
Dec 17, 2018
"There was mold all over my leather jacket from storage. I used the method of equal parts water and vinegar; the mold not only came off, but also cleaned it completely - all old dust and dirt came off, and it looks like new!"..." more
Jeff Johnston
Sep 18, 2017
"I have had a lot of water in my basement due to a toilet spraying water. We are still working to restore our basement and last night noticed mold on our leather chair. I plan to try the vinegar."..." more
Julbo Sapor
Dec 31, 2016
"We considered tossing several items of clothing that were contaminated with mold, including an expensive leather vest. This article on wikiHow showed me several options for cleaning it. Saved!"..." more More success stories Hide success stories
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Co-authored by: Susan Stocker Professional Cleaner This article was co-authored by Susan Stocker. Susan Stocker runs and owns Susan’s Green Cleaning, the #1 Green Cleaning Company in Seattle. She is well known in the region for outstanding customer service protocols — winning the 2017 Better Business Torch Award for Ethics & Integrity —and her energetic support of green cleaning practices. This article has been viewed 398,482 times. 23 votes - 83% Co-authors: 17 Updated: May 27, 2025 Views: 398,482 Article SummaryX
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612 
1 Apply a layer of petroleum jelly. Test the effect of the petroleum jelly on a small area that won’t be noticeable. Apply the petroleum jelly on the moldy areas creating only a thin layer. You may also use a suede cleaner but read the label of the cleaning product to ensure that it works on mold and mildew. 
2 Apply rubbing alcohol with water. Mix equal parts rubbing alcohol and water for stronger stains. If the mold remains after you have tried using jelly or suede cleaner, add the water and rubbing alcohol mixture onto the fabric. 
3 Wipe away the mildew. Moisten a soft cloth rag or sponge with water. Rub the jelly or suede cleaner into the material gently with the cloth rag or sponge. Do the same with the rubbing alcohol mixture for stronger mold stains. 
4 Allow the material to dry. Set the material aside for the suede or nubuck to dry completely. Use a suede brush to restore the texture. A suede brush can be purchased online or at your local shoe store. 
1 Remove loose mold. Using a brush with soft bristles, remove any loose mold from the material. Try to remove mold outdoors to avoid scattering spores of mildew within your home. Make sure to wash your brush before using if it is old.[1] 
2 Vacuum the leather. Remove mold from panels or creases with the hose of your vacuum. Dispose of the vacuum contents immediately as you don’t want the spores of the mold to spread. Remove the mold from your home as soon as possible.[2] 
3 Soap your material. Make sure your leather has a finish otherwise avoid getting it wet. Finished leather means that there is a coating of pigment atop. Use a sponge to apply thick soap thuds onto the mold and use a damp cloth to wipe it away.[3] 
4 Wipe with diluted alcohol. Dip a cloth in a mixture of 1 cup denatured or isopropyl alcohol and 4 cups water. Gently wipe your material with the cloth to remove remaining mildew. Do not soak the material. Let the leather dry thoroughly.[4] 
5 Airing the frame (Optional.) Air out the inner portions of a furniture frame if you suspect mold has crept past the upholstery. Be sure to open the underside dust cover and call a disinfecting and fumigating service if the mold is severe.[6] 
1 Dry brush the surface. Using a stiff nylon brush, dry brush the material to remove as much mold and mildew from the surface as you can. Mold spores spread easily so try to do this outdoors so you don’t spread the mold. 
2 Apply a vinegar-water mixture. Mix equal parts vinegar and water and test the solution on a tiny part of the material. If the color doesn’t change, continue to clean the mold off with the mixture. Do not over saturate the material. 
3 Wipe clean and dry. Dip a soft cloth in the vinegar mixture and gently clean the material. Do not use force as you may damage it. Set the material aside and let dry. 
1 Apply a saddle soap. Saddle soap can be purchased online or at a leather goods store. Use only about a dime-sized portion on a damp sponge or cloth rag. Work the saddle soap into the cracks of the leather by creating a light lather.[7] 
2 Wipe the leather clean. Wipe off the soap with another damp cloth. Wipe away the residue to thoroughly clean the material. Do not apply too much force as you may damage the material.[9] 
3 Allow the leather to dry. Let the saddle soap dry overnight but do not expose the material to the sun as it may cause the leather to fade. Avoid direct heat sources and allow the leather to air dry.[10] 
4 Condition the leather. Treat the leather with a conditioner once dry. Remember to test the condition on an inconspicuous portion of the material. Read the label to ensure the cleaner is right for your leather. Mink oil works well with most unfinished leather. Purchase conditioners are your local leather goods store or shoe store.[11] 
Susan Stocker Professional Cleaner Susan Stocker runs and owns Susan’s Green Cleaning, the #1 Green Cleaning Company in Seattle. She is well known in the region for outstanding customer service protocols — winning the 2017 Better Business Torch Award for Ethics & Integrity —and her energetic support of green cleaning practices. 
Community Answer Nope. Not yet. Hose it down outside and brush off the mildew with a soft bristled brush. Use a 50/50 blend of vinegar to adjust the pH of the leather and make it inhospitable for future mildew growth. Apply a good cream leather conditioner. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 15 Helpful 36 
Community Answer Zep makes a great mold and mildew stain remover. Use it 50/50 mixed with water and apply with a small sponge. Rinse with clear running water when the desired lightening occurs. This may also bleach out the leather, so you should try it in an inconspicuous spot first. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 10 Helpful 22