These white, furry patches are mold.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This often happens when leather clothing or shoes are stored for several months in a place with high humidity and poor air circulation (e.g. in a basement, cold closet, or attic). Leather is an organic material that absorbs moisture from the air, creating a breeding ground for mold.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Differentiating between mold and efflorescence: Mold vs. salt efflorescence
Sometimes mold is confused with salt efflorescence (residual road salt from last winter). You can easily tell the difference:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mold: Hairy, fibrous, easily wiped\/blown off, often moldy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Salt bloom: Crunchy, crystalline, firmly embedded in the leather.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
How to safely and thoroughly remove mold<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It is best to wear a mask and gloves when cleaning to avoid inhaling the spores, and if possible, clean outdoors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Dry brushing: Brush the mold thoroughly outdoors with a soft shoe or clothing brush.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Disinfection (destruction of mold):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Wet a cloth with a 1:1 mixture of vinegar and water or a special leather disinfectant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Wipe the entire surface of the leather thoroughly. The acetic acid destroys mold spores and neutralizes musty odors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Note: For very delicate suede materials (suede\/nubuck), only lightly dampen the cloth, do not soak it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Let it dry: Let your shoes dry completely at room temperature (don\u2019t put them on a radiator, or the leather will become brittle).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Leather conditioning (Important!): Vinegar strips the natural oils from the leather. Once dry, be sure to apply a suitable shoe cream, leather lubricant or leather balm (use a suitable care spray for suede) to restore the material\u2019s suppleness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here\u2019s how to prevent mold next summer:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Never store wet shoes: Always clean your shoes thoroughly and let them dry completely before storing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Store in a breathable way: Use cardboard shoe boxes or cotton bags \u2013 never plastic bags.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Add silica gel: Place small packets of silica gel or newspaper in the box to absorb any residual moisture.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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