Nesines
Fur coats are a stylish and functional wardrobe staple, but they require special care to keep them in top condition. One of the most important aspects of fur coat maintenance is oiling, as the natural oils in the pelts can dry out over time, causing the fur to become brittle and prone to tearing. Here are some tips on how to oil your real fur coat to keep it looking its best.
What You'll Learn
How to store a real fur coat
Storing a real fur coat requires specific conditions to keep it in good condition. Fur does not respond well to direct sunlight, so it is best to store it in a dark place, like a closet. The ideal temperature for fur storage is around 45-50 °F (7-10 °C) with 50% humidity. Basements are typically not suitable for fur storage due to high humidity levels. Attics can be a good option if they have a window with blinds to block out sunlight and adequate ventilation.
When storing a fur coat at home, choose a spacious closet to allow the coat to breathe and retain its shape. Hang the coat on a broad-shouldered hanger, preferably made of plastic or wood, to support its weight. Avoid using thin hangers as they can deform the coat's shape. Place the coat inside a cloth garment bag, preferably cotton or linen, to protect it from dust and odours. Make sure the closet is not overcrowded, as this can flatten the fur and cause unnecessary friction, leading to shedding.
If you live in an area with hot and humid summers, consider using a professional storage facility. These facilities maintain optimal temperature and humidity levels for fur storage and protect against pests and light damage.
Additionally, it is recommended to clean and condition your fur coat annually to preserve its natural oils and prevent shedding. Professional fur cleaning involves inspecting the coat for damage, hand-cleaning the lining, tumbling it in a drum with sawdust and a fur-cleaning solution, vacuuming, hand-steaming, "electrifying" the coat, and reintroducing oils using a conditioner.
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How to clean a real fur coat
Cleaning Your Fur Coat
- Shake the coat to remove any dirt or debris.
- Hang the coat properly on a broad, padded hanger to prevent the shoulders from losing their shape.
- Brush the fur while it hangs, working from the top of the coat to the bottom. Use a fur brush with widely spaced teeth and soft edges to avoid damaging the skin.
- Remove light stains by mixing 1 part isopropyl alcohol with 1 part water and applying it directly to the stain. Avoid using too much water or any type of cleaner or solvent.
- Gently rub the stain with a white cloth and allow it to air dry.
- Once dry, brush the coat again with a fur brush, working in the direction of the fur.
Conditioning Your Fur Coat
- Make a conditioning solution by mixing 1 part vinegar with 2 parts olive oil. The oil will help prevent the skin of the coat from drying out and becoming brittle.
- Remove the lining of the coat to access the skin or pelt.
- Using a clean cloth, dab the solution onto the skin of the coat, one section at a time.
- Gently massage the skin to help the coat absorb the oil.
- Hang the coat and allow it to dry completely. This may take a few days.
Removing Odours from Your Fur Coat
- Hang the coat in a vinyl garment bag that can be sealed.
- Place a small container of ground coffee at the bottom of the bag.
- Seal the coffee inside the bag with the coat and leave it for 24-48 hours.
- Check the coat after one day to see if the odour has been removed. If not, stir the coffee grounds and leave for another day.
- Once the odour is gone, remove the coat from the bag and store it properly.
General Tips for Caring for Your Real Fur Coat
- Avoid spraying perfume, hairspray, or other products near your coat as these can affect the natural oils.
- Avoid carrying a purse or handbag that rubs against the fur, as this can induce shedding.
- Remove your coat before sitting down or driving to avoid crushing the fur.
- Refrain from pinning items directly onto your coat, as this can stain or wear down the fur.
- Store your coat in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated area, as heat, light, and humidity can damage the fur.
- Have your coat cleaned and repaired by a professional furrier at least once a year.
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How to remove odours from a real fur coat
To remove odours from a real fur coat, you can try the following methods:
Coffee Grounds
Place the coat in a vinyl garment bag and add an open container of fresh coffee grounds to the bottom of the bag. Seal the bag and leave the coat for a few days until it smells like coffee. Then, remove the coat from the bag and hang it outside in fresh air to ventilate. Repeat the process if necessary, using fresh coffee grounds.
Baking Soda
Dust the coat with baking soda and brush it into the fur fibres with a fur brush. Alternatively, gently rub the baking soda onto the fabric or leather interior. Then, remove the baking soda by holding the coat by the shoulders and shaking it vigorously.
Hang in Fresh Air
Hang the coat outside in fresh air when the temperature is below zero. Make sure the coat is perfectly dry before putting it back in a garment bag.
Freezer
Place the coat in a deep freezer overnight or for a few days. Then, hang the coat outside in the open air to come to room temperature.
Professional Cleaning
Take the coat to a professional furrier for an annual clean and condition.
Prevention
To prevent odours, ensure your coat is stored with proper ventilation in a dry location. Shake the coat out periodically to rid it of dust and debris and always store it in a cotton garment bag. Avoid sources of odour such as tobacco and perfume.
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How to dry a real fur coat
If your real fur coat gets wet, the first thing to do is to shake it out to remove as much water as possible. Then, hang it to dry in a well-ventilated room. Do not use a blow dryer, clothes dryer, or any other direct heat source on the fur. Once it is dry, give it another shake to fluff the fur. Do not comb or brush it; simply smooth the fur with your hand.
If your coat gets completely soaked, take it to a professional fur cleaner immediately so that the hides can be treated correctly to prevent shrinkage.
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How to brush a real fur coat
To brush a real fur coat, you must first invest in a specially designed fur brush. This is because fur brushes have wider-spaced teeth and soft edges, which prevent damage to the skin of the fur.
Begin by hanging the coat on a broad, sturdy, padded hanger. This is to keep the coat's shoulders from losing their shape.
Next, start brushing from the top of the coat, working your way down to the bottom. Brush in the direction of the hair, using small and even strokes, and work on small sections at a time. Avoid making long strokes as this can cause the coat to stretch.
If you do not have a fur brush, you can run your fingers through the fur to help clear out any dirt or debris.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to oil your fur coat at least once a year, preferably during the summer months when the coat is not required for warmth.
No, it is best to use natural oils such as olive oil or flaxseed oil. Avoid using commercial conditioners or solvents as they can damage the fur.
Run your hand along the fur and your fingers through the hair. If it feels slightly oily, it is in good condition. If it feels dry, it may need oiling.
You can oil your real fur coat at home by mixing one part vinegar with two parts olive oil or flaxseed oil. Apply the mixture to the skin of the coat, massaging it gently to help the coat absorb the oil.
After oiling your real fur coat, hang it in a well-ventilated area to dry. Store it in a cool, dark place with 45-50% humidity, such as a basement or attic. Avoid storing it in a plastic bag, as fur needs to breathe. Instead, use a cotton cloth bag or cover it with a cotton pillowcase.
