Fur adds a soft, luxurious touch to your wardrobe, but cleaning fur can be challenging and somewhat tedious. Whether your garment is made of real or faux fur, it requires special care to maintain its good condition. However, it only takes a few minutes to take care of your fur clothing. Below are the best methods to clean your fur garments by hand and handle stains effectively, with attention to the key steps for optimal results.
Caring for Faux Fur Clothing
Faux Fur Coat Care
Shake Off Dirt
Start by shaking your coat vigorously to remove any dirt or debris. This initial step makes washing your faux fur coat by hand much easier.
Fill a Basin with Cold Water
Use cold water for cleaning faux fur, as most faux furs are made from acrylic (a type of plastic). Hot water could damage the fibers. Fill a clean basin with cold water for washing.
Gently Wash the Coat
Submerge the coat in the water and gently move it around. If the coat is not heavily soiled, you may not need soap. If you wish to use soap, add a small amount of wool or cashmere shampoo to the water.
Check the Water Regularly
Monitor the water to ensure it stays clear and clean. If it begins to look dirty, drain it and add more cold water to continue washing.
Rinse and Squeeze Out Excess Water
Continue rinsing the coat until the water runs clear. Once the coat is clean, gently squeeze out the excess water by pressing it in the tub, focusing on areas like the hood and pockets if applicable, as these might retain more water.
Dry the Coat
Hang the damp coat on a sturdy hanger in an open, dry space. Depending on the thickness and size of the coat, it may take a day or two to dry completely. Avoid direct sunlight, as faux fur does not respond well to it. A window open or a fan can help speed up the drying process.
Brush the Fur
Once the coat is damp (not soaking wet), gently brush the fur using a wire fur brush or a brush with natural bristles. This helps restore its fluff and keeps the fibers from matting.
Storage
Store your clean, dry faux fur garments in a cool, dry, dark wardrobe to prevent damage.
Cleaning Real Fur Coats
Shake Off Dirt
Gently shake your real fur coat outdoors to remove any dirt.
Brush the Fur
Use a wire fur brush to gently comb the fur sections. Move the brush slowly through the fur to remove tangles. It’s normal for the brush to pull out some tangles if the coat hasn’t been maintained in a while.
Treat Small Stains
For small stains, use a soft cloth dampened with cold or lukewarm water. Gently blot the stain without rubbing. Avoid using any soap, as it can damage the fur.
Absorb Larger Stains with Sawdust
For larger stains, place sawdust over the stained area on a flat surface. Leave the sawdust on overnight to absorb dirt and stains. In the morning, use a vacuum cleaner with the lowest setting to remove the sawdust, being careful not to damage the fur.
Store the Coat Properly
Store your real fur garments in a cool place, ideally between 10 to 13°C (50 to 55°F), and keep them in a dark area, especially during warmer months. If your fur is light-colored, store it in a breathable bag or cover it with a sheet to protect it from dust and light.
By following these steps, your fur garments, whether real or faux, can remain in excellent condition for years to come. With proper care, your luxurious pieces will continue to look beautiful and retain their softness and texture.
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