Washing Fur Coats: Do's And Don'ts

Fur coats, whether real or faux, require special care to keep them in good condition. While faux fur is more resistant to insect damage and can be washed at home, real fur should be cleaned by a professional furrier or a dry cleaner who specializes in cleaning fur coats. This is because the natural oils in real fur can dry out, causing the pelt to become brittle and susceptible to tearing. In addition, water can damage real fur by stripping the oils, ruining the pelt, and destroying the structure of the coat. However, both types of fur coats require regular cleaning to remove dirt and stains and prevent dullness and balding. For faux fur, this can be done at home by hand-washing or machine-washing with gentle detergent and air-drying, while real fur should be professionally cleaned using a sawdust treatment to avoid water damage.

Hand-washing vs machine-washing

Hand-Washing

Hand-washing is the safest method for cleaning fur coats and is suitable for both real and faux fur. It is a gentle process that involves submerging the coat in a basin or bathtub filled with cool water and mild detergent. The coat is then swished gently through the water for 10-30 minutes, before being rinsed, squeezed to remove excess water, and left to air dry.

Machine-Washing

Machine-washing fur coats is possible, but it requires extra care. A front-loading or high-efficiency washer without a center agitator is recommended to provide a gentler cleaning action. The coat is placed in the machine with cold water and mild detergent for 15 minutes, before being drained, rinsed, and spun at a low speed. The coat is then fluffed, brushed, and air-dried.

Comparison

Hand-washing is generally considered the better option for fur coats as it poses the lowest risk of damage. Machine-washing can be convenient for larger items or for those who are careful and experienced in using this method. However, it is important to note that machine-washing may not be suitable for all types of fur and can potentially cause damage if not done correctly.

Both hand-washing and machine-washing can be effective methods for cleaning fur coats, but it is important to consider the specific type of fur and follow the recommended care instructions. Hand-washing is generally the gentler and safer option, while machine-washing may be more convenient but requires extra caution to avoid potential damage.

Drying faux fur

Step 1: Remove Excess Water

Gently squeeze out as much excess water as possible from the faux fur. You can also roll the fur in a thick bath towel and press to absorb the water.

Step 2: Hang or Lay Flat to Dry

Hang the faux fur on a padded hanger in a well-ventilated area, such as a shower rod. Alternatively, lay the fur flat on a drying rack. Ensure the item is kept away from direct sunlight and heat sources, as these can damage the fibres.

Step 3: Reposition and Smooth the Faux Fur

Regularly reposition and smooth the faux fur during the drying process to prevent crush marks from forming.

Step 4: Allow Sufficient Drying Time

Faux fur can take up to 24 to 48 hours to dry completely. Do not wear, use, or store the item until it is entirely dry.

Step 5: Brush and Detangle

Once the faux fur is dry, use a soft-bristled brush or a wide-toothed comb to gently brush and detangle the fibres. You can also mix one teaspoon of hair conditioner with two cups of warm water in a spray bottle and spritz a small area of the fur. Use a soft-bristled brush to untangle the fibres, then wipe the area with a clean, damp cloth and allow it to air-dry.

Important Notes:

• Never put faux fur in a clothes dryer with the heat setting on. The heat can melt the synthetic fibres, causing irreversible damage.
• If you must use a dryer, set it to the air-only or fluff dry setting without heat.
• Steaming or ironing with the steam setting can be used to remove wrinkles from faux fur.

Removing odours from fur

• Hang the fur coat in a well-ventilated area and allow it to air out. This is a simple yet effective way to remove mild odours.
• Use a professional fur cleaning service. A professional furrier will be able to effectively remove odours and stains without damaging the fur. They will use specific fur cleaning products and techniques to clean the lining and fur, adding lustre and shine to the coat.
• Place the fur coat in a plastic bag with coffee grounds. Seal the bag for a couple of days, then remove the coat and let it air out to get rid of the coffee smell. Coffee grounds are known for their odour-absorbing properties.
• Mix baking soda with water and apply it to the fur. Let it sit for a few hours, then brush or vacuum it off. Baking soda is a natural odour neutraliser and can help absorb and remove odours from the fur.
• Use a vinegar solution. Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. Apply the solution to the fur, then blot it with a clean cloth and let it dry. Vinegar can help neutralise odours and remove stains.
• For more severe odours, create a mixture of hydrogen peroxide, dish soap, and baking soda. Apply this mixture to the fur and let it sit for a few hours before blotting and air-drying. This solution can help remove stains and neutralise strong odours.
• If the fur coat is valuable or vintage, consider taking it to a professional cleaner who specialises in fur to ensure it is properly cared for.
• To prevent odours from building up, make sure to clean your fur coat at least once a year and avoid exposing it to perfume, hairspray, or makeup, as the alcohol in these products can dry out the fur.

Storing fur coats

Location

When selecting a location to store your fur coat, there are several factors to consider:

• Temperature: Fur does best in colder temperatures, ideally around 10-15°C (50-60°F).
• Humidity: Avoid excessive humidity as it can damage the fur. The ideal relative humidity range is 45-50%.
• Darkness: Keep the fur away from direct sunlight as it can cause discolouration.
• Airflow: Ensure the storage area has good airflow to prevent the fur from drying out.
• Pests: Use moth traps to protect your fur from moths and other insects.

Storage Container

• Bag: Store your fur coat in a cloth bag, preferably cotton, to allow the coat to breathe. Avoid plastic bags as they can dry out the fur.
• Hanger: Use a broad-shouldered hanger to support the weight of the coat. A padded hanger will help maintain the coat's shape.

Storage Technique

• Space: Allow sufficient space around the coat to prevent it from being crushed or creased by other garments.
• Cleaning: Ensure the fur coat is clean before storing it. Consider using a professional furrier for cleaning and storage.
• Odour: Avoid using mothballs as their strong smell can be absorbed by the fur and is difficult to remove.
• Professional Storage: If affordable, consider using a professional storage facility, especially if you live in an area with hot and humid summers.

Removing stains from fur

Firstly, it is important to act fast and clean stains as soon as they happen. If you spill a coloured liquid on your fur, use a dry cloth to absorb as much of the liquid as possible. Repeat this process with a new cloth if necessary. Gently wipe and scrub the stain while it is still wet to make it easier to clean afterwards.

If you are dealing with a fresh stain on a natural fur coat, you can quickly dab it with a clean cloth. Use another clean, slightly damp cloth to gently blot the stain, and then allow it to air dry.

For faux fur, you can put a small amount of mild laundry detergent directly onto the stain. Gently rub the detergent into the stain with your fingers or a clean, soft cloth. Once the stain is removed, use a clean cloth dampened with cold water to rinse away the detergent. Blot up excess water with a clean, dry towel, shake the item to fluff the fibres, and then air dry.

For more stubborn stains, you can try sprinkling baking soda onto the stain and letting it sit overnight. This will help to remove both the stain and any unwanted odours. After letting the baking soda settle, give the coat a shake and rinse it before proceeding with your regular wash.

Another option is to use a mixture of 3 parts hydrogen peroxide, 2 parts rubbing alcohol, and 1 part white vinegar. Spray this solution onto the stain from 8-10 inches away. Then, take a pet brush and gently brush the fur in the direction of the grain. This will remove dirt and mildew smells, and the hydrogen peroxide will eat away at the stains. Allow the coat to dry and air out for a day or two, then store it in a cool, dry place with a cotton pillowcase over it. Make sure the coat is completely dry, or it will mould.

When it comes to removing stains from fur, there are a few important things to keep in mind. Avoid using stain removers or detergents on natural fur, and never use bleach or other chemical stain removers on faux fur, as these can damage the coat. Direct sunlight can also change the quality of the fur and make it harder to remove stains, so keep your fur out of direct sun as much as possible. Finally, always allow your fur to air dry naturally, as direct heat can cause damage.

Frequently asked questions