How to Remove Mold on a Leather Suitcase

Remove mold and mildew from your leather suitcase to keep it in good condition.

If you store your suitcase in a damp location, or if you do not dry it off well after it gets wet, mold can begin to grow. The mold can give off a foul odor, and it will make your suitcase appear unattractive. Cleaning the mold from the suitcase involves not only removing the mold but killing it so that it does not continue to grow.

Things You'll Need

• Rubber gloves
• Broom
• Rubbing alcohol
• Washcloths
• Leather conditioner

Instructions

1. Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands. Place the leather suitcase on a flat surface. Remove all your items from the suitcase.

2. Brush off mold with a broom. Take the suitcase outside to prevent spreading the mold spores.

3. Combine an equal amount of rubbing alcohol and water. Dampen a washcloth with the rubbing alcohol and water solution.

4. Rub the damp washcloth over the mold on the leather suitcase. Change out the washcloths as they become dirty. If the mold appears stubborn, scrub it gently with a sponge.

5. Wipe the leather suitcase with a dry washcloth. Store the suitcase in an area away from direct sunlight while it dries.

6. Apply a leather conditioner to the suitcase. This will keep the suitcase in good condition, and it will prevent the leather from drying out.

References

• University of Missouri: How to Prevent and Remove Mildew
• Mrs. Clean USA: How to Clean Leather
• University of Illinois: Thrifty Living: How to Remove Mildew