Introduction
A leather sofa is the centerpiece of a living room as it enhances your home’ look, and makes it look stylish. But even the most elegant leather couches or sofas can’t handle odors. From everyday use to accidental spills, lingering smells can quickly turn your cozy sofa or couch into a source of discomfort. After all, the sofa is the main attraction of households, where family and guests gather.
With years of experience in the cleaning industry, we know how important it is for you to keep your leather furniture fresh and durable at the same time. From homes in Coquitlam to busy city apartments in Vancouver, we’ve seen how pet odors, smoke, or food spills can take over a leather sofa if not treated properly. You can get rid of every smell with the right cleaning steps like gently wiping the surface with a damp cloth, using natural odor absorbers like baking soda, and applying a mild leather cleaner to restore its softness and shine. To relate with all these concerns we have curated this guide for you.
In this ultimate guide, you’ll learn how to get smells out of a leather sofa step by step instructions, safe cleaning methods, and targeted tips for tackling different types of odors so your sofa stays fresh and inviting for a longer period of time.
Why Leather Sofas Inculcate Odors
No doubt, leather is priced for its elegance and durability, but like any other material, it can hold onto unwanted smells if not maintained regularly and can cause harm to your leather sofa. Unlike fabric, leather doesn’t trap dust in the same way, but it has tiny pores that can absorb oils, moisture, and airborne particles over time. Your first step should be understanding the causes of these odors, this will help you in keeping your sofa fresh always:
1. Pet Dander and Hair
If you share your sofa with any pet like cat and dog, pet dander and hair can easily settle into the cushions. Over time, these tiny particles work their way into the leather’s pores, leaving behind a “dog smell” or “cat smell” that you can’t ignore. Even if your pets are clean, their natural body oils can mix with the leather and create lingering odors.
2. Smoke Particles
Whether from cigarettes, candles, or a cozy fireplace, smoke is notorious for clinging to leather surfaces. Unlike fabric, where smells can sometimes be washed out, smoke particles seep into the grain of the leather and cause a stubborn, stale odor that doesn’t go away with a quick wipe.
3. Spilled Food or Drinks
Accidental spills are one of the most common reasons leather sofas develop unpleasant smells. Coffee, wine, juice, or even small food crumbs can seep into seams and creases. If not cleaned right away, these spills leave behind sour or musty odors that only get stronger with time.
4. Body Oils and Sweat
Every time you sit on your sofa, natural body oils and sweat are transferred onto the leather. While this is perfectly normal, over months and years, these residues build up and can produce an odor that makes your sofa feel less fresh. This is especially noticeable in households where the sofa is the main gathering spot.
5. Lack of Regular Cleaning
Leather might look low-maintenance, but it still needs care to stay fresh. Without routine wiping, conditioning, and occasional deep cleaning, small issues—like crumbs, moisture, or everyday grime—accumulate. Over time, these minor problems combine into a noticeable, unpleasant odor that could have been easily prevented with simple upkeep.
We often miss this from our cleaning routine.
Pro-Tip: Read our cleaning guide to have balance in your cleaning routine. Also, know why house cleaning is important for you and your home.
General Step-by-Step Method to Remove Odors from a Leather Sofa
Before starting, gather these safe and effective tools to get rid of your smelly sofa:
Supplies You’ll Need
- Microfiber cloths
- Mild soap or saddle soap
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Distilled water
- Rubbing alcohol (for tough smoke smells)
- Leather conditioner
- Vacuum with brush attachment
Step-By-Step Guide
No matter what type of smell you’re dealing with pets, food spills, or smoke, these core cleaning steps form the foundation. By following them in order, you’ll refresh your sofa without damaging the leather.
Step 1: Vacuum the Sofa Thoroughly
Start by removing loose debris that may be hiding odors. Use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment to clean all visible surfaces, paying special attention to creases, seams, and under the cushions where dust, crumbs, and pet hair tend to collect. This prevents dirt from spreading when you begin wiping the leather.
Step 2: Wipe with a Mild Soap Solution
Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with distilled water to create a gentle cleaning solution. Dampen a microfiber cloth—never soak it—and carefully wipe the leather in small sections. This removes surface oils, grime, and light stains that can contribute to lingering odors. Remember, leather should never feel overly wet, as too much moisture can damage it.
Step 3: Neutralize Odors with Vinegar
For deeper odor removal, mix equal parts white vinegar and distilled water. Using another clean cloth, lightly wipe the surface of the sofa. Vinegar is a natural deodorizer that helps neutralize smells without harsh chemicals. After wiping, allow the sofa to air dry completely in a well-ventilated room.
Step 4: Condition the Leather
Once your sofa is fully dry, finish by applying a high-quality leather conditioner. Conditioning not only restores the leather’s natural shine and softness but also creates a protective barrier. This step locks in moisture, prevents cracking, and helps guard against odors reabsorbing into the material.
How to Remove Different Types of Smells from Leather Sofa
There are different types of smells and odor that your leather sofa can trap. Here’s full guide from our point of view to remove these different type of smells and odors –
1. Removing Pet Smells (Dander, Urine, or Hair)
Pets love sofas just as much as people do, but unfortunately, their scents often linger long after cuddle time. Whether it’s pet dander, hair, or even the occasional accident, leather can absorb these odors if not cleaned properly.
Step 1: Vacuum Thoroughly
Use a vacuum with a brush or upholstery attachment to lift pet hair and dander from cushions, seams, and under the sofa. This prevents debris from rubbing deeper into the leather during cleaning.
Step 2: Neutralize with a Vinegar-Water Solution
Mix equal parts vinegar and distilled water, then lightly wipe the affected areas with a microfiber cloth. Vinegar works as a natural deodorizer, breaking down odor-causing particles without damaging the leather.
Step 3: Absorb Smells with Baking Soda
For stubborn odors, lightly sprinkle baking soda over cushions and problem spots. Leave it overnight so it can pull odors out of the leather, then vacuum it up the next day.
Step 4: Condition the Leather
After cleaning, restore moisture with a leather conditioner. Pets can cause leather to dry out faster, so this step keeps your sofa soft, shiny, and protected from future wear.
Pro Tip: If your pet uses the sofa regularly, keep a washable throw blanket or slipcover on top. It’s easier to toss a blanket in the wash than to deep clean your leather every week.
2. How to Remove Smoke Smell from Leather Sofa
Smoke is one of the toughest odors to get rid of because its particles cling deeply to leather’s pores. Whether it’s from cigarettes, cigars, a fireplace, or even cooking smoke, the smell can become overwhelming if not treated properly.
Step 1: Prepare a Cleaning Solution
Mix equal parts rubbing alcohol and distilled water in a spray bottle or bowl. Alcohol is effective at breaking down smoke residue without damaging leather when used in moderation.
Step 2: Wipe the Sofa Gently
Lightly dampen a clean microfiber cloth with the solution and wipe down the entire sofa surface, including the back, arms, and seams. Be careful not to oversaturate the leather—less is more when working with alcohol.
Step 3: Air Out the Sofa
After wiping, allow the sofa to breathe. Open nearby windows, turn on fans, or if possible, place the sofa in a well-ventilated space for several hours. Fresh airflow helps push out lingering smoke particles that vinegar or alcohol alone cannot remove.
Step 4: Condition the Leather
Once the sofa is dry, apply a quality leather conditioner to restore softness and prevent drying or cracking from the alcohol cleaning. This step also helps seal the surface, reducing the chance of odors reabsorbing.
Pro Tip: To keep battling smoke odors even after cleaning, place bowls of vinegar or activated charcoal near (but not on) the sofa. These natural odor absorbers help pull lingering smells out of the air and keep your living room fresh.
3. How to Remove Food and Drink Spill Smells from Leather Sofa
Food and drink spills are one of the most common culprits behind unpleasant odors on leather sofas. If left untreated, liquids can seep into seams and creases, leaving behind sour or musty smells that get worse over time. The key is to act fast and use gentle cleaning methods.
Step 1: Blot Spills Immediately
As soon as a spill happens, blot (don’t rub) the area with a dry, absorbent cloth or paper towel. Rubbing can spread the liquid deeper into the leather or cause staining. Quick blotting prevents long-term damage and odor buildup.
Step 2: Wipe with a Mild Soap Solution
Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with distilled water. Dampen a microfiber cloth and carefully wipe the affected spot. This removes residue from food or drinks without stripping the leather’s natural oils. Always avoid soaking the leather—gentle wiping is enough.
Step 3: Use Baking Soda for Stubborn Odors
If the smell lingers, lightly sprinkle baking soda over the area and let it sit for several hours (or overnight). Baking soda naturally absorbs sour or musty odors without damaging the leather. Vacuum or gently wipe it away afterward.
Step 4: Condition the Leather
Once the area is clean and dry, apply a leather conditioner to restore softness and prevent the spot from drying out. Conditioning also helps protect against future stains and odors.
Pro Tip: Avoid harsh scrubbing or abrasive cleaners. They can damage the leather’s protective finish and make it more vulnerable to stains in the future.
4. How to Remove Musty or Old Smells
Over time, leather sofas can develop a musty or “old” smell simply from years of use, lack of ventilation, or being stored in damp environments. These odors are usually caused by trapped moisture, dust, or just natural aging of the material. Thankfully, you can refresh your sofa with a few simple steps.
Step 1: Vacuum and Clean as Usual
Begin by vacuuming the sofa with a brush attachment to remove dust, crumbs, and debris. Follow this with a gentle wipe-down using a mild soap and distilled water solution to clear away surface dirt that could be contributing to the odor.
Step 2: Use Baking Soda to Absorb Odors
Fill a breathable bag (such as a clean pillowcase or muslin bag) with baking soda and place it directly on the sofa cushions. Leave it overnight so the baking soda can draw out musty odors without leaving residue on the leather itself.
Step 3: Wipe Down with a Vinegar Solution
The next day, mix equal parts vinegar and distilled water, then lightly wipe the sofa’s surface with a microfiber cloth. Vinegar is a natural deodorizer that helps neutralize deep-seated odors, leaving the leather noticeably fresher.
Step 4: Condition the Leather
Once the sofa is dry, finish with a leather conditioner. This not only restores softness and shine but also helps seal the surface, protecting the leather from future odor absorption.
Pro Tip: If your leather sofa has been stored in a damp basement or garage, place it in a well-ventilated room for several days after cleaning. Fresh airflow works wonders in removing that “old furniture” smell.
Preventing Future Odors in Leather Sofas
Getting rid of odors is one thing, but keeping your leather sofa smelling fresh in the long run requires consistent care. By building a few simple habits into your routine, you can extend your sofa’s life and avoid unpleasant smells from creeping back.
1. Establish a Regular Cleaning Routine
Dust, crumbs, and body oils are often the silent culprits behind odors. Wipe your leather sofa weekly with a slightly damp microfiber cloth to remove buildup before it settles into the material. For a deeper clean, use a mild soap solution every month or two.
2. Condition Every 3–6 Months
Leather naturally loses oils over time, which can make it more prone to cracking and absorbing odors. Applying a quality leather conditioner every 3–6 months keeps the material supple while creating a protective layer that helps block unwanted smells.
3. Control Humidity in the Room
Leather is highly sensitive to moisture. In damp or poorly ventilated environments, it can develop a musty odor. If your living space tends to be humid, use a dehumidifier to maintain balanced air quality and protect your sofa.
4. Limit Pets and Food on the Sofa
As cozy as it is to share the couch with pets or enjoy snacks while watching TV, these habits are leading causes of lingering smells. Training pets to stay off the sofa and avoiding meals on it will significantly reduce odor issues.
5. Use Sofa Covers or Throws
Stylish covers, slipcovers, or throw blankets not only add a decorative touch to your living room but also act as a protective barrier. They absorb daily wear, spills, and odors, leaving your leather underneath fresh and well-preserved. Plus, they’re easy to wash and replace.
Pro Tip: Rotate your throws and air them out frequently. Even washable fabrics can develop odors if left uncleaned for too long.
What are the Common Mistakes to Avoid while Removing Odors from Your Leather Sofa
When trying to remove odors from a leather sofa, it’s just as important to know what not to do. Many homeowners unknowingly make mistakes that can worsen the problem or even damage their furniture. Here are the key pitfalls to avoid:
1. Using Bleach or Ammonia
Harsh cleaning agents like bleach or ammonia may seem like powerful odor-fighters, but they can strip the natural oils from leather, causing it to crack, discolor, or stiffen. Worse, these chemicals often leave behind an even stronger chemical smell. Always stick to gentle, leather-safe cleaners.
2. Over-Wetting the Leather
Leather is not designed to handle excess moisture. Soaking the surface with water or cleaning solutions can lead to stains, mold growth, and permanent damage. Instead, always use a damp—not wet—cloth and work in small sections.
3. Skipping the Conditioner
Cleaning leather without reconditioning it leaves the material dry and vulnerable. Over time, this dryness makes the sofa more likely to absorb odors and lose its natural sheen. A good leather conditioner is essential to restore softness and create a protective barrier.
4. Masking Odors with Sprays
Air fresheners and fabric sprays may provide temporary relief, but they only cover the problem instead of fixing it. In some cases, sprays can even mix with existing odors, making them smell worse. For a truly fresh sofa, always focus on removing the source of the odor rather than masking it.
Pro Tip: Think of leather like skin—it needs gentle cleaning, hydration, and protection. If you wouldn’t use a product on your own skin, it probably doesn’t belong on your leather sofa.
When to Call Professional Help
While these methods can handle most light to moderate odors, some smells are simply too stubborn to tackle at home. Smoke, strong pet urine, or years of built-up mustiness often penetrate deep into the leather, making it nearly impossible to remove with household solutions alone.
This is where professional cleaning makes all the difference. Professional cleaning services like Mesh Maids uses eco-friendly products that is not harmful for your family at all. Unlike harsh store-bought cleaners, these treatments safely lift odors while protecting the material’s finish and durability.
Contact us for scheduling professional house cleaning.
Conclusion
Your leather sofa deserves to be a place of comfort—not a source of unpleasant smells. Whether you’re dealing with pet odors, smoke, or food spills, knowing how to get smells out of a leather sofa gives you the idea to keep your leather couch fresh, inviting, and long-lasting.
With simple supplies like vinegar, baking soda, and mild soap, you can safely neutralize odors without harming the leather. Don’t forget to condition regularly and follow preventive habits to stop smells from coming back.
We believe that a clean home is about freshness, and comfort. By taking care of your leather sofa, you’ll not only extend its life but also ensure your living space feels welcoming for family and guests alike. Book your cleaning services with Mesh Maids and give your home a shine that it deserves.