How to Clean Mold Off Leather Furniture

Leather furniture adds a touch of elegance and luxury to any room, but it also requires care to maintain its beauty and durability. One of the most frustrating issues leather owners can face is mold. Whether caused by excess moisture, poor ventilation, or storage in a damp area, mold can quickly spread and damage your leather furniture if left untreated.

Fortunately, cleaning mold off leather isn’t as difficult as it may seem—if you know the right steps to take. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to safely remove mold from leather furniture and prevent it from coming back.

What You’ll Need

Before you get started, gather the following supplies:

• Soft microfiber cloths
• A soft-bristled brush
• Mild dish soap or leather cleaner
• Rubbing alcohol or white vinegar
• Water
• Spray bottle (optional)
• Leather conditioner

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Take the Furniture Outdoors (If Possible)

If the piece is portable, bring it outside. This prevents mold spores from spreading inside your home during the cleaning process. If that’s not feasible, make sure the room is well-ventilated by opening windows and using fans.

Step 2: Brush Off Loose Mold

Use a soft-bristled brush or a dry microfiber cloth to gently brush off any visible mold. Avoid scrubbing too hard, as mold can embed into the leather if pushed deeper.

⚠️ Important: Wear gloves and a mask to protect yourself from inhaling mold spores.

Step 3: Make a Cleaning Solution

Mix a solution of equal parts water and rubbing alcohol or white vinegar. These ingredients are effective at killing mold without damaging leather when used correctly.

Alternatively, you can use a commercial leather cleaner designed to remove mold.

Step 4: Test a Small Area First

Before applying any solution to the entire surface, test it on a hidden area of the leather to ensure it won’t discolor or damage the material.

Step 5: Wipe Down the Leather

Dip a clean cloth into your cleaning solution, wring it out, and gently wipe the moldy areas. Be sure to keep the cloth damp—not soaking wet—to avoid over-saturating the leather.

Repeat with a clean section of the cloth as needed until the mold is gone.

Step 6: Dry the Leather Thoroughly

After cleaning, use a dry microfiber cloth to blot excess moisture from the surface. Then allow the leather to air dry completely in a well-ventilated area—preferably in sunlight, which also helps kill any remaining mold spores.

Step 7: Condition the Leather

Cleaning can strip natural oils from leather. Once the furniture is dry, apply a leather conditioner to keep it soft, supple, and protected.

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How to Prevent Mold from Returning

• Keep humidity low: Use a dehumidifier if you live in a damp climate.
• Ensure proper ventilation: Avoid placing leather furniture near walls or in dark corners where air doesn’t circulate well.
• Clean spills quickly: Moisture is mold’s best friend.
• Store properly: If storing leather furniture, keep it in a dry, climate-controlled space.

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When to Call a Professional

If mold damage is severe or you’re unsure about cleaning high-end leather pieces yourself, it may be best to consult a professional leather cleaning service. They have specialized tools and expertise to restore your furniture safely.

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Final Thoughts

Mold on leather is unpleasant, but it’s not a death sentence for your favorite chair or couch. With a little patience and the right cleaning approach, you can restore your furniture to its original condition and keep it looking great for years to come.

Have you dealt with mold on leather before? Share your tips or questions in the comments!