If you have a new or vintage natural fur coat, or any garment trimmed with animal fur, it takes special care to keep it looking its best. Fur can attract dirt and lint and even get wet in a rainstorm (although water will not ruin it), and it should be cleaned every year by a professional furrier or a dry cleaner who specializes in cleaning fur coats. While you shouldn't attempt to wash a real fur coat at home (which could permanently damage it), specific fur care includes proper hanging, protecting the coat from dust, and using a fur cleaning tool to remove dirt and debris.
How to Care for Natural Fur and Faux Fur Hats
How Often to Clean a Natural Fur Coat
Even if you don't wear your fur coat often, animal hides can dry out if not cleaned and conditioned yearly, and animal fur gathers dust, oils, and odors. A professional cleaning will add luster and shine to the fur and keep it from shedding. Never put your fur coat in the washing machine, as it will strip the oils, ruin the pelt, and destroy the structure of the coat itself.
What Happens During Professional Cleaning?
First, a fur professional will inspect your coat for stains, rips, and tears. The lining is then hand-cleaned using fur cleaning products, with specific attention paid to spots, stains, and underarm odors. Next, the fur is placed in a large drum filled with sawdust and an environmentally safe fur-cleaning solution. After being tumbled in this drum, which draws dirt and oils from the fur, the coat is vacuumed to remove the sawdust and then hand-steamed to remove any final residue.
The next process involves "electrifying" the coat. Using large rollers, electricity is used to make each hair lift, separate, and lie in the same direction. The process is similar to static electricity, which makes each hair on your head stand separately. In the final step, the furrier reintroduces oil to your fur by using a conditioner, which is similar to a hair conditioner, and working it into both the hair and pelt of your fur coat.
You can also condition your fur at home by mixing hair conditioner with two cups of warm water and adding it to a spray bottle. Spray the coat with the solution, and then work the conditioner into the fiber by brushing it gently with a hair brush. Then, let your fur coat hang dry.
What You'll Need
Equipment / Tools
- Scarf (as needed)
Materials
- Sturdy padded hanger
- Cotton garment bag
Instructions
How to Care for a Natural Fur Coat
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Choose the Right Hanger
Your fur coat should always be hung on a broad, sturdy, padded hanger to keep the shoulders from losing their shape. The neck of the hanger should be long enough to keep the collar of the coat away from the hanging rod.
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Protect the Fur From Dust
Unless you're wearing your fur every day, use a 100 percent cotton bag to keep dust out of the fur. Don't hang yourfur in a plastic bag that doesn't breathe because it needs air circulation to keep the hide from drying out and cracking.
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Prevent Matting
Don't leave jewelry, like a brooch, pinned to your coat because it can mat the fur. When wearing your coat, don't use a shoulder bag consistently; it can wear away the fur and leave a bald spot.
See AlsoHow to Take Care of Real Fur: Your Guide to Cleaning, Conditioning and Professional Fur Storage -
Avoid Stains
Wearing a scarf around your neck under your coat will prevent body oil and makeup from soiling your coat collar. Avoid using hairspray or applying perfume when wearing your coat: The formulas of most brands contain alcohol, which can dry the hides. Any oils in the products may penetrate the fur and eventually become rancid. The odor is nearly impossible to remove.
Warning
Removing stains on a natural fur coat should be handled by a professional dry cleaner. If you have a fresh stain on your fur coat, quickly dab it with a clean cloth. Use another clean, slightly damp cloth to gently blot the stain, and then allow to air-dry. Don't use stain remover or detergents on fur.
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Prevent Crushing the Fur
If you'll be sitting for a long period, take your coat off to avoid crushing the fur. If you can't remove the coat, try to change positions often so that the fur won't be crushed in one particular spot. If possible, remove your coat, and use it like a blanket on your lap, drape it over your shoulders, or place it on the back of a chair.
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Eliminate Excess Moisture
If you get caught in light rain or snow, simply shake out the fur to remove as much water as possible. Hang it to dry in a well-ventilated room. Do not use a blow-dryer, clothes dryer, or any direct heat on the fur. After it's dry, shake again to fluff the fur. Don't comb or brush; simply smooth the fur with your hand.
If your coat gets completely soaked with water, it should be taken to a professional fur cleaner immediately so the hides can be treated correctly to prevent shrinkage. If you have a natural fur hat, take special care if it becomes wet. Proper reshaping is necessary to help it hold its shape.
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Storing a Natural Fur Coat
Furs that are properly stored during hot weather can last up to 50 years or more. Natural fur hates heat. It's not the actual hair that's affected; rather, it's the hide or leather that can dry out, become stiff, and crack. The optimum storage temperature for natural fur is 45 degrees with 50 percent humidity. In fur storage vaults, the room is dark, which prevents bleaching and fading of the color. Moths and other insects can't survive at the low temperatures inside.
If you decide not to use a professional storage facility, don't store your coat in a cedar closet or chest. The oils can harm the fur. Keep the fur in the coolest closet possible and always in the dark. Check frequently for insect activity, especially moths. But never use mothballs with natural fur because the chemicals in the balls may react with the fur's natural oils to create toxic gas.
Tips to Clean and Care for a Natural Fur Coat
- If you bought the fur garment used and are unsure if the fur is animal or synthetic, the first step is to do a burn test. Snip a few strands from an inconspicuous spot, place the fur strands in a heat-resistant dish (like an ashtray), and light the strands with a match. Natural animal hair will burn quickly to ash, while synthetic fur will melt.
- Don't leave or store your fur coat in natural or direct light because discoloration could occur.
- Never iron a natural fur coat.
- Invest in a specially designed fur brush that allows you to comb out large matted clumps without damaging healthy fibers.
- Every so often, bring your coat outdoors on a dry day, and shake it out to dislodge accumulated dust and debris.
- The worn lining of a natural fur coat can be replaced with a new one so you can continue enjoying your investment for years to come.
FAQ
How long do fur coats last?
Fur coats last about 20 years, depending on the type of fur. Mink, beaver, and Karakul sheep fur are among the most durable, whereas chinchilla fur is more fragile.
Can old fur be restored?
Yes, professional furriers can restore old fur coats by hydrating and conditioning them. However, furs that are in dire condition can only be revived by replacing the pelts with new pelts.
How do I know if my fur is real?
You can tell if your fur is real by parting the hair and looking at the base to see how it's attached. Animal fur is attached to a pelt, which looks like a leathery backing. Fake fur will be attached to a backing made out of fabric or material.
How to Wash and Care for Faux Fur Clothing
As an enthusiast and expert in fur care, I bring a wealth of knowledge on maintaining the beauty and longevity of natural fur garments. My expertise is backed by a deep understanding of the intricate processes involved in professional fur cleaning, as well as the nuances of at-home fur care. Let's delve into the key concepts discussed in the article on caring for natural fur coats and hats:
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Professional Fur Cleaning Process:
- The importance of annual professional cleaning is emphasized for both vintage and new natural fur coats.
- The inspection for stains, tears, and rips is a crucial first step.
- The hand-cleaning of the lining using fur cleaning products targets specific areas, including spots, stains, and underarm odors.
- Fur is placed in a drum filled with sawdust and a safe cleaning solution to draw out dirt and oils.
- "Electrifying" the coat involves using rollers and electricity to align fur hairs, similar to static electricity.
- The final step reintroduces oil to the fur using a conditioner, enhancing its luster and preventing shedding.
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At-Home Fur Care:
- Choosing the right hanger is essential to maintain the coat's shape, using a broad, sturdy, padded hanger.
- Protecting fur from dust involves using a 100 percent cotton bag for storage, allowing air circulation to prevent drying and cracking.
- Preventing matting by avoiding jewelry on the coat and minimizing shoulder bag use to prevent wear.
- Scarves are recommended to prevent body oil and makeup from soiling the coat collar.
- Tips for preventing crushing, eliminating excess moisture, and reshaping a wet fur coat are provided.
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Stain Removal and Warning:
- Stains on natural fur coats should be handled by professional dry cleaners.
- Caution against using stain removers or detergents on fur, with a recommended quick-dabbing method for fresh stains.
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Storage Tips:
- Proper storage in cool, dark environments with specific temperature and humidity conditions can extend the life of fur garments.
- Caution against using cedar closets due to potential harm from cedar oil.
- Monitoring for insect activity and avoiding mothballs due to potential chemical reactions with fur oils.
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Additional Tips and FAQ:
- Conducting a burn test to distinguish between natural and synthetic fur.
- Avoiding exposure to natural or direct light to prevent discoloration.
- Investing in a specially designed fur brush for maintenance.
- Periodic outdoor shaking to dislodge dust and debris.
- The possibility of restoring old fur coats through professional furriers.
This comprehensive guide covers not only the cleaning process but also preventive measures and storage considerations to ensure the prolonged beauty and life of natural fur garments. If you have any further questions or need more detailed information on specific aspects, feel free to ask.
