Why is there a white film on my leather holster? Is it mold?Updated a month ago
The powdery bloom or "fatty spue" is typically caused by the natural fat of the hide or fatty materials applied to the leather. The fatty spue is a type of stain caused when residual fat from the leather reacts to fluctuations in temperature and humidity. We most often see this bloom during the winter time when the leather is subjected to temperature extremes from our hot and humid Florida location to colder less humid locations and the variations in temperate between travel and our fulfillment centers.
It appears as a whitish patina or coating, which at first glance looks like white mold. Unfortunately, this phenomenon does not arise immediately after the production of the leather, but weeks later. Most of it happens in transit or when the leather items are packed in plastic such as the plastic waterproof shipping bags.
Leather treated with waxy care products or grease melts may also cause the fatty spue to appears (which is why we only recommend application of the Bick4 Leather Conditioner). Delicate leathers like Veg Tanned and Bridle Leather have to have great care taken when cleaning and often require little to no cleaning at all. In fact, improper chemicals will actually decrease the life of the leather substantially.
TREATMENT OPTIONS: If you have one available apply a hair dryer to the affected area the wax or grease should melt and disappears. If it remains unchanged let us know.
Another option is to treat the leather: white vinegar and linseed oil can clean the leather in seconds.
- Mix 2 parts linseed oil to1 part white vinegar in a bowl.
- Dip the corner of a cleaning rag into the mixture.
- Wipe the area with a clean section of the rag to remove any excess residue.
One more option is to wipe the leather with an antibacterial wipe and then treat the leather with the Bick4 Conditioner.
Typically, if kept in a warm location (such as in the house or in your safe) the bloom with not return.
If the Bloom continues to return and be a bothersome issue please let us know.