Mold Smell On Quality Saddle

[Greenwood]

I just had a customer drop off a 30 + yr. English Passier saddle that's been stored for many years. The thread around the gullet and billet straps has rotted over the years and have to be restitched. The owner has oiled it with neatsfoot oil to soften the leather, and has done a good job by not overdoing it. The saddle has developed a moldy smell from years of sitting in storage probably in a damp location. I've read advice and suggestions on this site on how to resolve,but can't find plz help!!

Thanx, Leo

[TomG]

I've used lemon juice cut 50/50 with water and rubbed in with a rag. Then rinsed lightly with a rag dipped and wrung out in clean water.

I haven't done a saddle, but I would think getting into creases and layers is going to be an issue unless you disassemble it. I'd also toss any fleece or shearling on it and replace it.