No one likes the feeling of sitting on a piece of leather furniture that smells musty and dank. We’ve all been there – whether it was an old couch with years of wear and tear or a new investment, giving the room a stale smell.
Febreze is one of the most popular fabric fresheners on the market. But can you use Febreze on leather? That’s a question that a lot of people seem to be wondering about. In this epic guide, we will answer all of your questions and give you some useful tips on how to keep your leather looking and smelling great!
What is Febreze and Why Would You Want to Use it on Your Leather
You might be interested in using Febreze on your leather for numerous reasons. The most common reason is to help remove lingering odors from sweat, smoke, pet urine, food spills, and more. Additionally, some people may use Febreze as a way to enhance the scent of their leather furniture or accessories. Finally, Febreze can also provide extra protection against bacteria and other microbes that may be living in the leather.
Since Febreze has a deodorizing effect, it can help to eliminate any smells from your leather furniture or accessories without leaving behind an overpowering scent. It is also great for maintaining a pleasant smell within your items and also helping to keep them from being stained by persistent odors.
But the question still remains: Is it safe to use Febreze on leather?
The answer to this question depends on several factors, such as the type of leather you are using and the formulation of your specific Febreze product. Generally speaking, Febreze is not safe to use for most types of leather. However, it is important to always check the label for cleaning instructions or consult your furniture manufacturer for guidance.
Febreze typically contains alcohol in its ingredients, which can be drying and damaging to leather if used in large amounts or applied directly onto the surface. Therefore, it might not be the best choice for leather furniture or items that are particularly sensitive to moisture. Additionally, it is important to always test any cleaning product on a small, inconspicuous area before using it on your leather. This will help ensure that the solution doesn’t damage your item in any way. You should also keep in mind that some Febreze products contain dye which can stain lighter color leathers if not used properly.
In the next following sections, we will delve deeper into both positive and negative aspects of using Febreze on leather so you’d have a better understanding of the potential risks and benefits. [1] [2] [3]
Disadvantages of Using Febreze on Leather
Let’s begin by discussing the disadvantages of using Febreze on leather. This is the most important part and we suggest you pay attention to it.
Febreze can leave a waxy residue on your leather
This is definitely something to think twice about before spraying Febreze on your leather items.
It can cause discoloration in your leather items
Another huge risk that comes with using Febreze on leather is the potential for discoloration. Febreze typically contains alcohol, which can be damaging to leather if used in large amounts or applied directly onto the surface. This can lead to fading or color changes in your items over time. While this will be most visible on lighter leathers only, the damage can be permanent and irreversible. We highly recommend avoiding using Febreze on light leathers or any leather item you care about.
It can dry out your leather
The annoying disadvantage of using Febreze on leather is that it can dry out your leather furniture or accessories. This is because many types of Febreze contain alcohol, which may strip moisture from the surface of the leather if used in large amounts.
When this happens, the leather may become brittle and prone to cracking and splitting over time. It is therefore important to always test any cleaning product on a small inconspicuous area before using it on your leather items.
In addition to causing dryness, Febreze also can damage the delicate finish on your leather items, causing it to look dull and lifeless. Therefore, it is important to take proper safety measures when using Febreze on leather furniture or accessories.
It may leave chemical stains
Another con of using Febreze on leather is that it may leave chemical stains. This happens when the chemicals in the product are not completely removed from the surface after you’ve finished cleaning.
These chemical stains can be difficult to remove and may cause discoloration or fading to your leather item over time. Therefore, it is important to thoroughly clean any areas treated with Febreze before use and to take extra care when spraying near seams or edges which could absorb some of the product’s residue. [1] [2]
Benefits of Using Febreze on Leather
Still, there are a few benefits of using Febreze on leather items that make them appealing to many folks who own leather furniture or accessories.
It can remove smells
The main benefit of using Febreze on leather is that it can effectively remove odors and smells from your furniture or accessories. This is because many types of Febreze contain odor-absorbing and neutralizing chemicals which can help to combat unpleasant smells and make your furniture smell fresh again.
Smells can be difficult to remove from leather as the natural material it is made of can trap in the odors, making them linger for longer. However, using Febreze on your leather furniture or accessories can help to remove these smells and leave it smelling fresh again.
This is particularly useful if you have pets or smoke in the home, as these activities can cause lingering odors in your leather furniture. Applying an appropriate amount of Febreze to the affected area may help to neutralize these unwanted smells, restoring your furniture’s pleasant aroma.
It can disinfect the leather
These types of Febreze are often marketed as “odor eliminators” or “disinfectants,” so make sure to read the label before purchasing one for this purpose. Applying an appropriate amount of these special types of Febreze to your leather furniture or accessories may help to keep them clean and free from harmful bacteria and other microorganisms. [2]
How to Remove Odors From Your Leather Without Using Febreze
Still, here’s where the pros end, and as you can see, there are a few drawbacks to using Febreze on leather items. So we would like to stress that the potential risks of using Febreze on leather must be carefully weighed against its potential benefits before making a decision about whether or not to use the product.
There are also many other alternatives to Febreze that may be better suited for removing odors from your leather furniture or accessories. Let’s find out more about them.
Always clean the leather item properly first
Before using any cleaning techniques on your leather item, it is important to make sure that you properly clean the item first. Leather should always be vacuumed or lightly brushed with a soft cloth. To remove any debris or oils, use a damp cloth on the leather surface.
Never use strong chemicals or abrasive materials when cleaning leather items as this can cause damage to the leather. In addition, never submerge leather in water as this can also ruin the material.
Baking soda
Baking soda is an effective and safe way to remove odors from leather. It works by absorbing bad smells and trapping them inside. Just keep in mind that this method works best with smaller leather items and not large pieces of furniture.
To use baking soda, fill a plastic bag or a pillowcase with it and then place it inside the item you want to deodorize. Leave it overnight then shake off the baking soda and vacuum up any residue.
To get rid of a particularly strong smell, you can make a paste out of baking soda and warm water. Spread this onto the leather and leave it for an hour or so before wiping it down with a damp cloth. Once done, you should notice that the bad odor has disappeared!
White vinegar
Another option is to use white vinegar. Vinegar has strong odor-removing properties and can help neutralize any lingering scents from your leather item.
The strongest concentration of white vinegar you can find in retail is 20%. This can be too strong for leather and may damage it, so we recommend diluting it with water. Start by mixing 1 part of vinegar with 1 part of cold water. This ratio is both effective and safe for most leather.
When applying a solution, use a clean white cloth or cotton ball to avoid color transfer. Put the solution on your cloth and dab it onto the affected area. Don’t rub it, as this can cause damage to the leather.
Once you have applied the solution let it sit for a few seconds and then use a clean cloth to remove any excess liquid. Lastly, leave the leather out in a well-ventilated area so that it can dry completely and thoroughly.
Don’t leave your leather item trapped for too long however as the ink from the newspaper can stain it and the leather needs to breathe.
Wrap the leather item in a newspaper
If you want to get rid of the smell of leather without using any chemicals, try wrapping the item in a newspaper. This is an old-school trick that really works!
Simply take a few pieces of newspaper and place them around the leather item. Secure it all with a rubber band or string and leave it like this overnight. The newspaper will absorb any smells and make your leather item smell fresh again!
Specialized chemical cleaners
Lastly, there are also specialized chemical cleaners designed specifically for leather upholstery. These products can be found in most home goods stores and many of them can help get rid of any odors on your leather item.
If you decide to use a chemical cleaner, always follow the instructions provided on the product’s packaging. Most will require you to spray the cleaner onto a clean white cloth and then dab it onto the affected area of the leather. Once done, wipe it down with a damp cloth and leave it out in an open area to dry completely before using it again.
Just keep in mind that some of these cleaners can leave your leather items with a chemical smell, so make sure to completely air out the item before using it. Also, these cleaners should only be used on leather and not other materials like suede or fabric so as not to cause damage. [3]
FAQ
How long does it take for leather to stop smelling?
The amount of time it takes for leather to stop smelling depends on a variety of factors, including the type of leather, the source of the odor, and the cleaning process used. Generally speaking, if you’re dealing with a surface-level smell that’s caused by dirt or dust buildup on the leather, it should dissipate with time in a few hours. However, deep-set odors such as smoke or pet smells can take longer to go away — up to several days.
You can get rid of strong smells using a leather cleaner or baking soda but it’s not recommended that you use Febreze on leather.
Why does leather absorb odors?
Leather absorbs odors because it is a natural material that has pores. These porous materials are like little sponges and will soak in any organic substance. This includes sweat, pet fur, dust particles, dirt, and other smells which can become trapped in the fibers of the leather.
Does Febreze work on leather?
Febreze fabric fresheners are not recommended to be used on leather furniture. Leather is a natural material and should be treated with products specifically formulated for it. Using any other product could potentially ruin the finish or discolor the leather.
While Febreze can get rid of odors in fabric, it is not the best solution for leather. If there is an odor in your leather furniture, try vacuuming the surface to remove any debris or dust that may be causing the odor. Use baking soda to absorb any strong odors and wipe the surface with a cloth that has been dampened with mild soap and water. Allow it to air dry before applying a leather conditioner designed specifically for your furniture’s type of leather. This will keep the material soft and prevent cracking or fading.
How do you deodorize leather?
Leather can be deodorized with a few different methods. The first method is to use an absorbent powder like baking soda or cornstarch, which should be sprinkled liberally over the leather surface and left to sit for several hours before being vacuumed off.
Another option is to use a mixture of 1 part white vinegar and 4 parts water in a spray bottle, spritzing the leather surface lightly and allowing it to air-dry. If these methods are not successful, you may need to take your leather goods to a professional cleaner who specializes in restoring leather furniture. They will have specialized cleaning agents that can help remove odors from the material without causing damage. Additionally, many good-quality leather cleaners come with built-in deodorizers that can help neutralize odors.
Never use any kind of chemical agent on leather, as they can be harmful to the material and can cause discoloration. Also, it is important to remember that deodorizing your leather item is not a permanent solution; odors may return in time if the cause of the problem is not addressed or removed. Regular maintenance and frequent vacuuming will help keep leather furniture in good shape and smelling fresh.
Can I use Febreze on faux leather?
While faux leather can be more resistant to the chemicals in Febreze than real leather, it is not recommended that you use any type of fabric refresher on faux leather. This is because the chemicals in Febreze may cause discoloration or fading of the material. And it can cause drying too.
To keep your faux leather in good condition and smelling fresh, use a cleaner specifically designed for this type of material. Applying a protectant after cleaning can also help to prevent discoloration or fading due to chemical exposure. Additionally, you may wish to consider storing the piece in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Doing so will help keep your faux leather looking its best for longer.
Can you use Febreze on the sofa?
Whether or not you can use Febreze on your sofa depends on the material it is made of. For fabrics such as cotton and polyester blends, you should be able to safely use Febreze; however, for delicate materials like silk or wool, it’s best to avoid spraying directly onto the fabric. If you do decide to use Febreze on a sofa, test an inconspicuous spot first and take extra care to avoid saturating the fabric. Following the directions carefully will also help ensure that any odors are effectively neutralized while avoiding damage to the fabric.
Leather is also not good for direct contact with Febreze. If you have a leather sofa, it is best to stick to other odor-fighting methods such as vacuuming or steam cleaning. For a quick solution, you can also use a damp cloth with a mild detergent to help neutralize any odors in the leather. Finally, make sure that the sofa is completely dry before sitting on it to avoid further damage.
Useful Video: How To Use Febreze On a Couch
Conclusion
Dealing with foul odors in your leather items can be a challenging task and many owners may feel overwhelmed. One product some people consider using is Febreze. But unfortunately, using this product on leather is not recommended. The alcohol and propellant in the formula can significantly damage leather, causing long-term harm to your precious items.
First of all, leather is a delicate material that can be damaged easily if you use the wrong products. Febreze contains harsh chemicals and fragrances which could damage your leather goods. The alcohol in Febreze can strip away natural oils from leather, leaving it dry and brittle. This makes it more prone to cracking or fading over time.
Instead, consider utilizing natural solutions such as baking soda or essential oils to remove odors from leather without risking potential damage. Regularly cleaning your leather items with approved leather cleaners will also help keep them looking new for years to come. And if possible, avoid exposing leather to sources of the odors such as cooking smoke, pets, or other strong smells.
With all of that said, if else fails we suggest you seek professional help to remove the odor from your leather item. Professional cleaners can use more effective methods to rid your items of odors in a safe manner.
We hope this guide has helped you learn whether you can use Febreze on leather, and what other solutions are available for removing unpleasant odors from your leather items.
References:
- https://leatherial.com/does-febreze-work-on-leather/
- https://favoredleather.com/can-i-use-febreze-on-faux-leather/
- https://vonbaer.com/blogs/blog/how-to-get-smell-out-of-leather