Why Does My Leather Bag Smell Like Fish? Reasons and Fixes

Have you ever wondered, "Why does my leather bag smell like fish?" This unexpected and unpleasant odor can be quite puzzling, especially when you've invested in what you've thought was a premium leather accessory.

Based on our observations, fishy smells in leather bags are often caused by poor material quality, chemical reactions during the manufacturing process, or improper storage conditions after your purchase.

At Andar, we're experts in handcrafted full grain leather handbags and more who can help readers with this common issue.

In this blog post, we'll explore the reasons behind this peculiar smell in faux leather in particular, discuss how to eliminate the scent, and provide tips on maintaining your leather bag's freshness.

What this article covers:

Why Does My Faux Leather Smell Like Fish?
How to Get Fishy Smell Out of Faux Leather

Why Does My Faux Leather Smell Like Fish?

Faux leather, also known as synthetic leather, can sometimes emit a fishy stench. This is often attributed to its overall quality, manufacturing processes, and storage conditions.

Its odor is quite different from the pleasant scent of genuine leather or the full grain leather we use in our modern leather goods here at Andar.

Let's delve into the various reasons why your faux leather bag might have a fishy smell.

The Packaging It Comes In

Some packaging materials used for faux leather products may contain chemicals or compounds that interact with the synthetic leather, resulting in an unpleasant stench.

Additionally, if the packaging is airtight and doesn't allow proper ventilation, it can trap odors and exacerbate the problem.

Its Chemical Composition

Faux leather is typically made from synthetic materials, such as polyurethane (PU) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

The chemical composition of PU and PVC can sometimes lead to the formation of odorous compounds during the manufacturing process of faux leather items.

These chemicals may break down over time or react with other substances, producing a fishy stench as a result.

The Presence Of Amines

One of the primary culprits behind the fishy odor in faux leather is the presence of amines. Amines are organic compounds that contain nitrogen and are often used in creating industrial products.

Some amines have a distinct fishy smell, which can become more noticeable as the faux leather ages or is exposed to certain environmental conditions.

Our research at Andar indicates that some leather producers have been known to utilize fish oil (which contains amines) in their manufacturing process, which can also lead to a bad stench.

The Dyes Used

Some artificial dyes utilized for coloring faux leather may contain chemicals that produce fishy smells when they break down or interact with other components of the material.

Our findings at Andar show that certain dye formulations are more prone to this issue than others, especially when exposed to heat or humidity.

The Preservative Chemical Used

Preservatives are often added to faux leather products to prevent mold growth and extend their lifespan.

However, some preservative chemicals can react with the artificial materials or environmental factors, resulting in a fishy odor.

This is particularly true for preservatives containing sulfur compounds, which are known for their pungent stench.

The Glue Used

The adhesives used in the construction of faux leather bags can be another source of fishy scents.

Some types of glue, especially those containing volatile organic compounds (VOCs), can emit strong smells as they cure or break down over time.

This can occur particularly in warm or humid conditions.

The Protective Coating

Many faux leather products are treated with a protective coating to enhance their durability and water resistance.

While these coatings are generally beneficial, they can sometimes trap scents or react with other chemicals in the fabric.

This can lead to the development of fishy smells when applied unevenly or in excessive amounts.

Post-Production Treatments

Some manufacturers apply additional treatments to faux leather after production to enhance its appearance or performance.

These treatments may include:

softeners
polishes
waterproofing agents

In some cases, these post-production treatments can interact with the artificial materials or existing chemicals, resulting in unpleasant odors.

Lack Of Breathability

In contrast with full-grain leather, faux leather is a less breathable fabric, which can contribute to odor problems.

The lack of air circulation in its synthetic materials can trap moisture and create an environment where bacteria and mold thrive.

As a result, various scents develop, including fishy smells, especially in areas where the bag comes into contact with the body or is exposed to sweat.

Long Periods Of Storage Or Poor Storage

Storing leather bags in a damp, humid environment or in an airtight container for extended periods can also promote the growth of bacteria and mold, which results in an unpleasant stench.

Additionally, exposure to direct sunlight or high temperatures can cause chemical reactions in the synthetic items, potentially leading to fishy odors.

How to Get Fishy Smell Out of Faux Leather

If your faux leather bag has developed a fishy smell, don't worry – there are several effective methods to eliminate the odor and restore your bag's freshness.

Through our practical knowledge at Andar, we've found the following techniques to be highly efficient ‘wash leather bag' methods:

1. Use Specialty Cleaners

Specialized leather cleaners offer maximum efficacy in removing odors from faux leather.

We offer The Leather Care Kit that includes a gentle cleaner specifically formulated for numerous types of leather types and products, including full grain leather bags.

For more stubborn odors, our specialized conditioner and The Leather Cream can help neutralize smells while conditioning and hydrating the material.

When using our Andar leather care products, be sure to follow the instructions carefully and test them on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure compatibility with your faux leather bag.

2. Use Odor-Neutralizing Sprays

Learning how to take care of your leather bags often involves using odor-neutralizing sprays. They're designed for use on most fabrics, making them effective in eliminating a fishy stench from faux leather bags.

Look for products that contain enzymes or activated charcoal, as these ingredients are particularly good at breaking down odor-causing compounds.

Apply an odor-neutralizing spray evenly over the surface of the bag; repeat the process if necessary.

3. Air It Out With Fresh Air Or Sunlight

One of the simplest and most effective ways to eliminate bad scents from faux leather is to air it out thoroughly.

Place your faux leather product or full grain leather bag in a well-ventilated area indoors or outdoors in a shaded spot on a breezy day. Fresh air in particular can help dissipate unpleasant smells and allow any remaining chemical odors to evaporate.

If you choose to air out your bag in sunlight, be cautious about prolonged exposure. Based on our first-hand experience, UV rays can potentially damage or discolor the fabric, even in indirect sunlight.

Conclusion

In this blog post, we revealed that the fishy smell in leather bags can stem from various factors, including chemical reactions in the manufacturing process, poor storage conditions, and the use of certain low-quality materials during production.

Remember, understanding why your leather bag smells like fish is the first step in preventing and addressing the issue. That's why we're committed to helping you maintain the condition and freshness of your leather accessories.

Why settle for a smelly bag when you can enjoy the luxurious feel and scent of our modern full-grain leather goods?

Visit us now at Andar to explore our refreshingly trendy collection and carry what matters – a beautifully crafted, odor-free full grain leather purse and then some that stand the test of time.

If you want to learn more, why not check out these articles below:

Why Does My Leather Bag Smell Like Fish?