
Clean living with Maggie May
It’s quite common to find mould on your leather couch in our hot summers, particularly in the more humid climates. So here is a great tip I picked up over the years. Now firstly, remember, leather is skin, so we treat it gently. All you need is some baby oil as your moisturiser and barrier, and clove oil for the mould-stopper. Just love that clove oil, it’s simply divine. Always reminds me of Christmas. Together, they’re a cracking little team.
First things first: if you can, open all your windows and get some air circulating around your room. Mould spores don’t need an invitation to hang around. I like to slip on some rubber gloves and a mask too before I start. Wipe the leather with a dry cloth to remove any loose mould. Don’t scrub – that just pushes it in.
Now mix about ¼ cup of baby oil with 10 drops of clove oil. That’s plenty. More clove oil isn’t better; it’s strong stuff. Give it a gentle swirl. Using a soft cloth, lightly wipe the leather, working in small sections. You’re feeding the leather while the clove oil inhibits mould growth. Think polish, not soak.
Leave it to sit overnight, then buff lightly with a clean cloth the next day. The leather should feel supple, not greasy.
You can also use this little concoction on handbags, boots and shoes. Always patch test first, especially on handbags and boots. And store leather where air can move – mould hates fresh air. Try it, its simple, cheap, and it works.
Happy cleaning and see you next Sunday more handy tips.
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