Cleaning an old fur coat requires delicate care, often best handled by professionals, but some basic maintenance and spot treatment can be done at home.
Understanding Fur Coat Care
Old fur coats are valuable and sensitive items. Unlike synthetic fabrics, natural fur and the underlying skin can be easily damaged by moisture, heat, friction, and harsh chemicals. Regular cleaning and proper storage are essential to preserve their condition and lifespan. While professional fur cleaning is recommended for overall maintenance and deep cleaning, minor issues can sometimes be addressed carefully at home.
Home Care for Old Fur Coats
Home care focuses primarily on gentle maintenance and addressing minor surface issues.
Airing and Dust Removal
A simple first step is to air out your coat in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Gently shaking the coat can help remove loose dust and debris. You can also lightly brush the fur with a special fur comb or a wide-toothed comb, always brushing in the direction of the fur growth.
Treating Stains on Fur
According to expert advice, dealing with stains requires caution.
- Difficult or Large Stains: These should always be removed by a professional furrier. Attempting to treat them at home can easily damage the fur and the hide.
- Smaller, Fresh Stains: These can sometimes be treated at home.
- First, use a clean, dry cloth to gently blot the stain. Avoid rubbing, as this can spread the stain or damage the fur fibers.
- Next, blot the stained area with a slightly damp, clean cloth. Use minimal moisture and avoid saturating the fur or the underlying skin.
- Your coat should then be left to air dry for best results. Hang it on a padded hanger in a well-ventilated area away from heat sources.
- Crucially, never use detergent or stain remover on a real fur coat. These products contain chemicals that can strip the natural oils from the fur, causing it to dry out, become brittle, and even change color.
Other Gentle Maintenance
- Avoid Heat: Keep your fur coat away from direct heat sources like radiators, heaters, or hair dryers, which can dry out and damage the hide and fur.
- Avoid Moisture: If your coat gets wet, shake out the excess water and hang it to air dry naturally in a cool, well-ventilated spot. Do not use heat to speed up the drying process.
When to Seek Professional Cleaning
Professional fur cleaning is a specialized process that differs significantly from regular dry cleaning. Furriers use methods like tumbling the coat in sawdust or other natural materials with cleaning agents designed specifically for fur, which absorb dirt and oils without damaging the pelt.
You should take your old fur coat to a professional furrier for cleaning:
- For annual maintenance, even if it doesn't appear dirty.
- To remove difficult or old stains.
- If the coat has been exposed to moisture for an extended period.
- If the fur appears matted, dull, or has lost its natural sheen.
- Before storing it for the off-season.
A professional can properly clean, condition, and glaze the fur, restoring its luster and suppleness, and inspect it for any issues.
