I used to work in the luxury leather goods industry, and one of the things I always thought I loved was the smell of leather. The scent would always hit me when I walked into the warehouse or the showroom, especially if I’d been away for a few days or longer. It was comforting, nostalgic, even intoxicating. Like many others, I associated that rich aroma with quality, craftsmanship, and something enduring. Over time, though, I realised we often become nose-blind to it when we're around it every day.
Years later, after moving away from leather and launching a vegan brand, I learned something surprising. That iconic "leather smell"? It often isn’t just leather. It’s chemicals. And once I knew that, I couldn't un-smell it.
What Causes Leather To Smell?
Natural leather comes from animal hides that must be preserved through a process called tanning. There are different ways to tan leather, but many commercial methods involve heavy chemical treatments. Chrome tanning, the most widely used method, relies on chromium salts and other chemicals like formaldehyde, glutaraldehyde, and various synthetic dyes and finishes.
You can read more about the environmental impact of leather production here.
These compounds don’t just make leather durable and pliable; they also contribute to its signature scent. So when someone says they love the smell of leather, there’s a good chance what they’re really reacting to is a complex mix of industrial chemicals.
When Leather Smells Bad
Interestingly, not all leather smells pleasant. One of the most common complaints online is about leather (or faux leather) that smells like fish. This usually points to poor tanning processes or contamination:
- Improper tanning: If the hide wasn't fully treated, natural decomposition odours can linger.
- Contaminated materials: Water or tools used in processing may carry smells.
- Cheap faux leather: Some synthetic leathers are made with lower-grade plastics that off-gas unpleasant odours.
In high humidity or storage near pungent substances, even good leather can absorb and retain odours.
Why We Love It Anyway
So, if the smell is mostly synthetic, why do we still love it?
Scent is deeply tied to memory and emotion. That leathery aroma might remind someone of a beloved bag, a new car, or the first pair of boots they ever bought. Brands have capitalised on this by creating leather-scented candles, air fresheners, and even colognes. What was once an industrial byproduct is now a marketed aesthetic.
My Perspective Shift
Once I realised the scent I was nostalgic for was primarily the result of tanning chemicals, my perception shifted. I began to question why I valued it. Was it comfort? Familiarity? A sense of luxury? It turns out, it was all those things—but now I see them differently.
I'm not here to shame anyone for liking leather or how it smells. I believe in being honest about where those sensations come from and offering an alternative that doesn't rely on animals or harsh chemicals.
Our materials are designed to be clean, modern, and consciously created. And while they may not smell like traditional leather, they do offer peace of mind—no toxins, no hidden animal origins, or strange odours.
A Better Way to Scent
If you still love that classic leather aroma, you're not alone. But next time you catch a whiff, it might be worth reflecting on what you're really responding to. Sometimes, a scent can be more about marketing than meaning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Leather Smell
Why does faux leather smell like fish?
Often due to cheap plastics or poor-quality adhesives used in manufacturing.
How do you get a bad smell out of leather?
Use baking soda, activated charcoal, or a leather-safe deodoriser. Ensure the product is kept dry and aired regularly.
Is the leather smell bad for you?
Prolonged exposure to certain tanning chemicals, like formaldehyde, may carry health risks. That "new leather" smell might not be as harmless as it seems.
Can I use Febreze on leather?
It’s not recommended. Febreze and similar products can damage leather finishes. Opt for products specifically designed for leather care.
Does leather always smell?
High-quality leather has a more subtle scent. Strong or off-putting odours usually indicate poor tanning or synthetic additives.
Curious about clean, scent-free alternatives? Explore our collection of consciously crafted, animal-free designs that don’t compromise on style or substance.
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