How to Get Leather Smell Out of a Jacket: A Comprehensive Guide

How to Get Leather Smell Out of a Jacket: A Comprehensive Guide

A brand-new leather jacket holds an irresistible charm. It’s stylish, it’s luxurious, it’s timeless. But sometimes, the unmistakable leather smell can be overwhelming, especially when the jacket is new or has been stored improperly. While some people love that rich scent, others find it overpowering or unpleasant. If you’re one of those looking to tone it down, you’ve come to the right place. Welcome to your comprehensive guide on how to get the leather smell out of a jacket, while preserving its beauty and integrity. Before this, explore best leather jackets in USA here.

Understanding the Leather Smell

Before diving into solutions, it’s essential to understand why leather smells the way it does. Leather is an organic material that undergoes a tanning process to prevent decay and make it durable. Different tanning methods—vegetable tanning, chrome tanning, or synthetic methods—produce different odors. Additionally, leather goods are often treated with oils, dyes, and finishes that contribute to that signature scent.

The goal isn't necessarily to remove the smell completely (because that's part of what makes leather authentic) but to soften it to a more subtle, wearable note.

Step-by-Step Methods to Remove or Reduce Leather Smell

1. Air It Out Naturally

Best for: New jackets with a mild to moderate smell.

Fresh air is your first and best ally. Place your jacket in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight (to prevent fading), and allow it to breathe. Outdoor shaded areas, balconies, or rooms with open windows are perfect.

Give it at least 48-72 hours, occasionally flipping it to expose different parts to the air. You'll be amazed at how much odor will naturally dissipate with patience alone.

Pro Tip: Avoid hanging your jacket in humid environments, as moisture can cause mildew, making the smell worse.

2. Use Baking Soda for Gentle Deodorizing

Best for: Persistent smells.

Baking soda is a natural odor absorber. Here’s a safe way to use it:

  • Place your jacket in a large, breathable bag (like a cotton garment bag).

  • Add an open container of baking soda inside (or sprinkle some into a small cloth pouch).

  • Seal the bag loosely and let it sit for 24-48 hours.

The baking soda will absorb some of the odor without directly touching or damaging the leather.

Warning: Never sprinkle baking soda directly on the leather itself, as it could dry it out.

3. Coffee Grounds: The Secret Weapon

Best for: Leather lovers who want a quick fix.

Believe it or not, dry coffee grounds are fantastic at absorbing smells. Plus, they leave behind a warm, cozy scent that's much more inviting.

  • Place dry, unused coffee grounds in breathable pouches (like cheesecloth or old socks).

  • Arrange them around the jacket inside a box or garment bag, and leave it undisturbed for a day or two.

Just be sure the coffee grounds don’t spill onto the jacket—no one wants a coffee-stained leather!

4. Activated Charcoal for Deep Deodorizing

Best for: Older jackets with deeply set odors.

Activated charcoal is another powerful odor absorber. It's commonly used in air purifiers and is safe when used properly.

  • Place your jacket in a large container or bag with activated charcoal pouches.

  • Leave it sealed for up to a week.

This method requires patience but works wonders for jackets with stronger smells.

5. White Vinegar Steam Treatment (Carefully Done)

Best for: Jackets needing a light refresh.

Combine one part white vinegar with four parts distilled water. Gently mist the air surrounding the jacket, being careful not to saturate the leather. As the vinegar evaporates, it will help neutralize unwanted odors.

Another option is to hang the jacket in a bathroom while a hot shower runs. Set a bowl of the diluted vinegar nearby, allowing the steam and vinegar to work together to subtly lift and remove lingering smells.

Important: Always test a small, hidden area first to ensure the vinegar solution doesn't affect the leather’s finish.

6. Use Leather Cleaner and Conditioner

Best for: Full maintenance refresh.

Sometimes, smell issues are tied to the buildup of oils or dirt. A good-quality leather cleaner can help remove impurities. Apply a leather conditioner afterward to restore moisture to the material and introduce a fresher, cleaner scent.

Choose products specifically made for leather garments (not furniture or car interiors), and follow instructions carefully.

Bonus Tip: Some conditioners come with light, pleasant scents like cedarwood or vanilla—an added benefit if you’re combating odors.

7. Professional Cleaning

Best for: High-end, delicate, or vintage jackets.

If you're nervous about DIY methods or if your jacket is expensive, a professional leather cleaner is the safest route. These specialists know exactly how to clean and deodorize leather without risking damage.

Yes, it costs more than doing it at home—but for luxury leather, it’s worth every penny.

What NOT to Do

  • Don’t soak your jacket in water or cleaning solutions. Leather hates being wet.

  • Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia, or generic household cleaners.

  • Don’t use perfume or fabric fresheners directly on the leather. They can stain and create a worse odor over time.

  • Never dry leather with direct heat (like a hairdryer). It can crack and damage the jacket.

A Few Extra Tricks

  • Sachet of herbs: Lavender or cedar sachets placed in the jacket’s pockets can add a light, natural scent over time.

  • Microfiber wipe-down: Regularly wiping your jacket with a dry microfiber cloth can prevent odors from settling.

  • To ensure your leather jacket retains its shape and breathability, store it on a wide, padded hanger inside a breathable garment bag made of cotton or canvas.

Final Thoughts

Leather jackets are investments—not just in fashion but in experience. The smell of leather tells a story of craftsmanship and authenticity. But when that story feels a little too loud, it’s perfectly fine to quiet it down a bit.

Using natural deodorizers like baking soda, coffee grounds, or activated charcoal can help balance the scent without compromising the leather's integrity. For stubborn smells or treasured pieces, professional help is always a wise choice.

Be patient, be gentle, and above all, remember: leather, like wine, only gets better with age—and a little care goes a long way.

Back to blog