By The Eye desk · Last verified 28 September 2026
Singapore’s humidity usually sits around 70 to 80 per cent, which suits mould perfectly. Leather absorbs moisture and grows mildew. Metal corrodes faster. Wood swells and warps, and paper and fabric spot. The common advice for fine leather and other valuables is to keep them at 40 to 60 per cent relative humidity, somewhere ventilated. A wardrobe dehumidifier or a dry cabinet, rather than air-conditioning left running, is the usual way to get there.
Quick facts
- Outdoor humidity in Singapore is typically around 70–80%.
- A target of 40–60% is commonly advised for leather and valuables.
- Poor ventilation makes mould worse.
- Too dry can crack leather, so don’t overdo it.
- Dehumidifiers in small spaces work better than running aircon.
- Silica gel or charcoal helps in drawers and boxes.
What does humidity do to things?
| Material | What happens |
|---|---|
| Leather | Absorbs moisture, then grows mould and mildew and smells |
| Fabric | Mould and mildew if it stays damp |
| Wood | Swells and shrinks, then warps or cracks |
| Metal | Rusts and corrodes faster |
How should I store leather?
- Keep it somewhere cool and ventilated, not sealed in plastic.
- Aim for 40–60% humidity, with a small dehumidifier in the wardrobe or a dry cabinet.
- Don’t push humidity too low; very dry air can crack leather.
- Check bags you don’t use often, and wipe them down.
What about watches, cameras and books?
The same logic applies: lower, steadier humidity and good air flow. Dry cabinets, designed for camera equipment, are widely used here for lenses and watches too. For books and papers, keep shelves away from damp walls and windows, and leave space for air to circulate.
Why not just leave the aircon on?
Air-conditioning does lower humidity, but running it for storage is expensive, and humidity rises again when it’s switched off. A dehumidifier working in a small, closed space is more efficient.
The WahLiao Verdict
If you own something expensive that’s made of leather, metal or glass, set aside a little budget to protect it: a hygrometer to measure the humidity, and a dehumidifier or dry cabinet for the things that matter most. It’s cheaper than cleaning off mould, and far cheaper than replacing what it ruins.
Questions people ask
What humidity should I aim for?
About 40 to 60 per cent for leather and most valuables.
Do dust bags stop mould?
They keep off dust, but they don’t control humidity. Ventilation and dry air matter more.
Can moisture absorbers go inside a bag?
Absorbers with liquid reservoirs can leak. Many people prefer silica gel sachets or a room or wardrobe dehumidifier.
How do I remove mould from leather?
For valuable pieces, ask a leather specialist; the wrong cleaner can damage the finish.
Sources: The Peak Singapore on humidity and leather care; Megafurniture on how humidity affects materials. Humidity targets are commonly given ranges, not a laboratory standard.
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