Fur coats are timeless luxury garments that come at a high price due to the craftsmanship, materials, and attention to detail needed to make them. Many furs are delicate, requiring proper care and maintenance to maintain their quality and condition. According to fur care specialists, coats that are properly cleaned and maintained can last up to 50 years. However, improper care and cleaning techniques can just as easily destroy your fur coat beyond the possibility of restoration.
So how do you properly care for your fur coat and avoid permanent damage?
We’ll outline some tips from our very own furriers below:
No matter how careful you are, stains and dirt are almost impossible to avoid so there is a high chance that your fur coat will eventually get dirty or stained. In the event you stain your fur coat, NEVER attempt to wash it at home using your washing machine. Soaps, detergents and other chemical stain removers can damage the fur. Instead, you should use a clean cloth to dab the stained area on your coat. You can also use a slightly damp cloth to gently blot the stained area. But any stains that cannot be removed by these techniques should be cleaned by a professional.
Have you ever noticed the beautiful shiny look of a well-kept fur coat? The base of the coat releases natural oils that expand throughout the fur which gives a sheen to it. To best maintain the natural oils of the fur and keep your coat looking pristine, we recommend having your coat professionally cleaned and cared for at least once a year.
Weather conditions can be unpredictable causing your fur coat to get wet unintentionally. While exposure to water and moisture may not permanently damage your coat, we recommend avoiding excess dampness to prevent further harm. If your fur coat gets wet, we recommend shaking your coat out to release any water that is trapped within the fibers of the fur. Once you are done shaking it out, we recommend hang-drying your coat in a well-ventilated area away from direct sources of heat. You should never put it in the dryer as this can significantly damage your coat. If your fur has been completely soaked and cannot be dried naturally, we recommend having it professionally cared for. A professional cleaner can take further measures to dry the fur and treat it to prevent any damage caused by the moisture.
If exposed to dust, dirt, and other particles, the oil from the fur absorbs these substances which in turn disrupts the release of the oils it produces. This causes the natural fibers of the fur to turn dull and patchy. We recommend getting your fur coat professionally cleaned to effectively remove all dust and dirt particles from the fibers in the fur. This will restore the oils it releases and maintain the sheen of your fur without damaging it.
Accessories like jewelry and shoulder bags can mat and wear away areas of the fur where they’ve been pressed together for long periods. To maintain the natural look and feel of your fur, you should avoid accessories that press up against it.
Also, sitting on and leaning against your coat can crush the fur. If you’re planning on sitting for a long period of time, it’s recommended that you place the coat on the back of your chair or lay it flat across your lap. This will keep your body weight from crushing the fur and keep it looking nice and full.
Fur coats are timeless luxury garments that can be in your wardrobe for decades if properly cared for. Knowing and understanding when to get your coat professionally cleaned can be the difference maker in making it last. While small issues can be taken care of by you, xposure to excess moisture, stains, dirt, dust and other debris should be addressed by a professional cleaner right away.
To keep your coat looking pristine and shiny, we recommend having it professionally cleaned at least once a year. If you need fur cleaning and storage services, contact Davis Imperial Cleaners today at (866) 267-4560. Our fur cleaning specialists have the knowledge, experience, and equipment to properly clean, repair, moisturize, dry, and remove odors from your coat.
No comment yet, add your voice below!