Experts often see people confuse mold with something called fatty spew or leather bloom.
What Is Fatty Spew?
Fatty spew occurs when oils and waxes naturally present inside leather migrate to the surface.
As temperatures change, these oils crystallize.
The result can look remarkably similar to mold:
- White patches
- White film
- Powdery appearance
- Light-colored residue
However, fatty spew is harmless.
Mold vs. Fatty Spew
Mold
- Fuzzy texture
- Musty smell
- Appears in patches
- Can spread over time
- Often grows in humid conditions
Fatty Spew
- Smooth or waxy texture
- No smell
- Often
