How to Avoid and Remove Mold from Leather Shoes can you remove it? Mold growth on leather shoes is a common problem, especially in certain parts of the world and certain seasons of the year when humidity is high, but anyone can experience mold problems in shoes. Sometimes to a lesser extent, but sometimes the entire shoe gets moldy. This page explains the causes of mold, how to avoid it, and how to remove mold from infected shoes. 
The Development of Leather Shoe Moulds: What Causes It? Mold is a general term for all kinds of fungi that feed on living things. Mold spores are constantly present in the environment, but they only become a problem if they collect and grow to a higher degree in certain areas. They appear most often on food, but as most people know, they can also appear elsewhere. Among other things, on the skin. A pair of Allen Edmonds got moldy after being exposed to heavy rain. picture: A pair of Allen Edmonds got moldy after being exposed to heavy rain. Facebook Yap Han Win / Boot Forum Leather is tanned in various ways to prevent mold growth, but it is still a living material; contains natural tannins and small or large amounts of natural waxes and oils, depending on skin type; they are nourished by other waxes and oils, which are is essential, but also adds organic matter to the skin; stains etc. can be another source of mold growth. Mold development contributes to damp, dark conditions and poor air movement. Therefore, storing damp leather shoes in a closed closet or similar location can lead to the development of mold. This brings us to the next stage of this tutorial (the focus here is on shoes, but mostly applies to all leather goods). How to Prevent Mold Growth on Leather Shoes The condition of your shoes and how they are stored is one of the most important factors affecting the formation of mold on leather shoes. First, if you're outside in windy weather and your shoes are wet, you should be very careful. First, remove all dirt and residue with a damp cloth or similar material. Let it dry in a well-ventilated area, preferably outside on a sunny day (although if it gets soaked in rain this is not always the case and it should not be left in the rain or at night when its humidity levels lower. higher), but room temperature is fine. 
Put them on a direct heat source, such as a radiator, floor heater, etc., to speed up the drying process, as this can cause the leather to crack. Lay the shoe on its side, on an uneven surface, or hang it to ensure air can circulate around the shoe. Mold is especially common on leather soles if they are wet when walking in the rain and are placed on a flat surface with minimal air circulation. This is because the sole is usually dirtier than the upper, which is the first choice for mold spores. How to protect it when working in this situation is crucial. Molded leather sole. Leather sole mould development If the shoes are wet, don't use the last; it dries faster without it or with newspaper pages, which may collect moisture and should be replaced after the paper is completely wet. First, when the shoe is half dry, place the wooden last to keep its shape. Wooden lasts will absorb some moisture, but they also allow the leather to breathe (unlike plastic lasts, which can clog pores), and are ideal for when the shoes get a little damp from sweat after everyday use. However, as mentioned earlier, even a wooden last will prevent the leather from drying properly if the shoe gets wet. There are many common mistakes people make when wearing shoes to prevent mold. Shoes are usually stored in closed cabinets, which are inconvenient due to poor ventilation. If placed in a closet, create ventilation by keeping the door slightly open or drilling larger holes in hidden areas. Also, they are better off standing on a slatted rug or similar surface to allow air to move under their soles, rather than on a flat hard surface (read this article for more info). 
A way to ensure that air can circulate around the shoe. Placing your shoes on this type of rubber rug is one way to ensure air circulates around them. Shoe boxes are a popular way to store shoes, especially during the winter months when shoes are not in use (read more about seasonal storage in this article). This is a problem because it's a dark area with very little air movement, especially if it's kept in a basement or similar damp location (which should be avoided), which can lead to mold growth. Punch holes in the box to allow air circulation and improve conditions, and always make sure the shoes are completely dry before storing them in the box. Instead of relying on leather to absorb moisture, it is recommended to keep the shoes in some form of moisture-wicking. Wooden shoe lasts are suitable for low relative humidity conditions. Include bags of rice shavings and/or silicone pouches usually included in seasonal storage packaging (don't throw them away; keep them in a box at home). For example, if you live in a very humid environment, installing a dehumidifier can make a big difference. If you have frequent mold problems with your shoes, you should pay close attention to the above criteria. As mentioned, some parts of the world are wetter and more prone to mold; this varies with the season, and you may live in a dwelling where mold spores are more likely to stick to leather shoes. So you know when you need to be extra vigilant How to get rid of mold on leather shoes Mold has been around for a long time when it first appeared. The early stages were invisible to the naked eye, so when the often-opaque white (or sometimes black) coating appeared, the process had progressed significantly. Take your shoes outside, as you don't want mold spores to spread inside, and remove any visible mold with a cotton towel dipped in hot water. Handle with care. Then, ideally outdoors, allow the shoes to air dry. 
First remove the mold from the surface. spruce illustration Molds that have penetrated further into the material and formed cracks, such as holes around the perforated skin and between leather pieces, must now be removed. The procedure would be simpler if only on leather soles, but otherwise, it's the same. This requires the use of a mold-breaker. Other cleaners can achieve the same effect, but white vinegar is the cheapest and most effective. This is a leather abrasive. Gloves should be used to protect your hands. You can soften the smell by mixing vinegar and lemon juice. If the liquid contains more than 12% vinegar, it must be diluted with water to obtain a similar concentration that is not too strong on the skin. Again, do it outdoors. To properly clean your shoes, use a towel or sponge dampened with vinegar. If there are signs of mold inside, don't ignore them. To avoid water marks when your shoes dry, wipe the entire shoe with a damp towel until it is wet. Let it dry naturally. Check the shoe to make sure all mold is gone; if not, re-wipe the damaged area with vinegar; you can do this more carefully to avoid re-wetting the entire shoe. After the mold is completely removed and the shoe is completely dry, the leather is stretched to dry and needs to be conditioned. First, apply a layer or two of a good conditioner, preferably leather lotion or something similar, but also good for restorative work. Next, apply at least two thin coats of high-quality shoe cream, and if needed, continue with waxing, etc., to restore the shoes to their original condition. If everything is done correctly, the shoes should be in good condition again. If you can't fix the problem yourself, take the shoes to a cobbler or leather restorer.
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