How to Remove Diesel Smell from Leather

The challenge of removing the smell of diesel from leather can vary depending on the type and assembly of the leather. Getting the odor out of a watch band is an easier task than ridding the smell from shoes, while a leather jacket will present a whole new set of problems. For most situations, however, these steps will go a long way toward success.

• A cleaner (choose one):
  • Equal parts white vinegar and water
  • Leather Master Leather Degreaser
  • Simple Green All Purpose Degreaser
• Clean towel

1. Select a cleaner from the list above. If using Simple Green, test it on a small hidden area of the leather first to be sure it is safe. Wait an hour to determine the results of the test.
2. Spray or wipe down the leather with the cleaner of your choice from the list above. The cleaner will break down the oil residue so that it can be cleaned away thoroughly. Once it is removed, the smell will be gone.
3. Use the clean towel to rub the cleaner into the leather the same way as you would a leather conditioner.
4. Wait for it to dry. If there’s still an odor, repeat.

• If the diesel smell is on a jacket or another garment with a lot of padding and/or layers, try putting the item in a large plastic lidded tub along with several cotton balls soaked in pure vanilla extract.  The vanilla smell will permeate the non-leather portions to rid these unwashable items of the fuel scent.
• Simple Green may not be safe for some types of genuine leather. It is safe for use on faux leather.