How to Care for Your Fur Jacket to Keep It Looking Luxurious

A fur jacket is an investment in both luxury and warmth, but to maintain its timeless appeal and luxurious feel, proper care is essential. Whether you own a real fur jacket or a faux fur piece, the steps for keeping it looking its best are crucial to preserving its appearance and extending its lifespan. With the right care, your fur jacket can remain a statement piece in your wardrobe for years to come.

In this article, we’ll share tips on how to care for your fur jacket—cleaning, storing, and maintaining—to keep it looking as stunning as the day you bought it.

1. Proper Storage: Keep It Safe and Dry

The way you store your fur jacket is one of the most important factors in maintaining its quality. Improper storage can cause the fur to mat, lose its shape, or even get damaged by moths.

Tips for Storing Your Fur Jacket:

Avoid Damp Environments: Always store your fur jacket in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Heat can dry out the fur and cause it to lose its softness. Humidity can cause the fibers to clump together and may lead to mold or mildew.
Use a Wide Hanger: Never hang your fur jacket on a thin metal or plastic hanger as this can cause the fur to stretch or lose its shape. Instead, opt for a wide padded hanger to support the jacket’s structure and prevent any distortion.
Store in a Garment Bag: To protect your fur jacket from dust and dirt, store it in a breathable garment bag. Avoid using plastic bags, as they trap moisture and can lead to the degradation of the fibers over time. A cloth garment bag is the best option for preserving the fur’s natural texture.
Moth Protection: Real fur is susceptible to moth damage, so place moth repellent (such as cedar chips or lavender sachets) in your storage area. This will help keep your fur jacket safe from moths and other pests.

2. Cleaning: Treat Your Fur with Care

Cleaning your fur jacket properly is essential to keeping it looking luxurious. Whether it’s a real fur or faux fur jacket, regular cleaning can prevent dirt, oils, and grime from accumulating on the fibers. However, cleaning fur is a delicate process, and it’s important to follow the right steps.

Tips for Cleaning Your Fur Jacket:

Spot Clean When Necessary: If your fur jacket gets a small stain or spill, address it immediately by spot cleaning with a soft cloth. Gently blot the stain with a cloth dampened with lukewarm water. Avoid scrubbing or rubbing, as this can damage the fur fibers.
Avoid Machine Washing: Both real and faux fur jackets should never be machine washed or dried, as this can ruin the texture and structure of the fur. Faux fur, especially, can lose its shape, and real fur can become dry and brittle. Always opt for professional cleaning when your jacket needs a thorough wash.
Professional Fur Cleaning: For a real fur jacket, it’s best to take it to a specialized furrier who can clean it without damaging the delicate fibers. Professional fur cleaners have the proper tools and experience to ensure your jacket stays pristine.
Faux Fur Care: Faux fur is more durable than real fur but still requires gentle care. If your faux fur jacket needs a deeper clean, it’s advisable to have it dry-cleaned by a professional who specializes in synthetic fabrics. Some faux fur garments are labeled as machine washable, but always check the care instructions before attempting to wash them at home.

3. Avoiding Damage: Keep Your Fur Jacket in Top Condition

To maintain the luxurious look of your fur jacket, it’s essential to avoid damage from everyday activities. Fur is delicate and needs special attention to keep it looking its best.

Tips for Avoiding Fur Damage:

Avoid Excessive Contact with Moisture: Rain, snow, and humidity can wreak havoc on your fur jacket, especially if it’s made from real fur. If you’re caught in a downpour, it’s important to dry your jacket immediately using a soft towel. Never wring or rub the fur to dry it, as this can cause the fibers to break or become misshapen. For faux fur, a gentle blow-dry on a cool setting can help restore its appearance.
Don’t Overstuff Pockets: Avoid putting heavy or sharp objects in the pockets of your fur jacket. Bulky items can distort the shape of the jacket and cause the fabric to stretch or tear, especially in more delicate faux fur materials.
Be Mindful of Friction: Constant rubbing against surfaces such as seat backs, chairs, or car upholstery can cause the fur to flatten and wear down over time. Try to avoid brushing up against rough surfaces that might cause friction or tangling in the fibers.

4. Maintaining the Shape and Texture

Over time, the fur on your jacket may become flattened or matted, especially if it’s been stored improperly or worn too frequently. With the right care, you can restore the fur’s softness, volume, and luster.

Tips for Restoring the Fur’s Texture:

Fluff Faux Fur: If your faux fur jacket looks a little flat, use a wide-tooth comb or pet brush to gently comb through the fibers. Always do this in the direction of the fur to avoid tangling. If the faux fur is matted, applying a small amount of fabric softener diluted in water can help loosen the fibers.
Restoring Real Fur: For real fur jackets, you can use a soft bristle brush to gently comb the fur to restore its natural fluffiness. Be sure to comb in the direction of the fur to avoid damaging the fibers. If your real fur jacket has been crushed or flattened, a furrier can also help to recondition it professionally.
Avoid Over-Washing: Over-washing or excessive cleaning can cause fur to lose its softness. Only clean your fur jacket when necessary, and avoid using harsh detergents or soaps that could strip away the natural oils in the fur.

5. Repairs and Restoration: Professional Help for Long-Term Care

If your fur jacket suffers from more significant damage—such as torn fur, matted patches, or loose seams—it’s essential to seek professional help. A skilled furrier can repair tears, fix damaged areas, and restore your jacket to its original condition.

Repair Tips:

Professional Furrier: A furrier can perform necessary repairs, including reattaching fur, patching holes, or restoring the shape of the jacket. This is especially important for real fur jackets, which require expert care to maintain their value and quality.
Reconditioning Services: Some furriers also offer reconditioning services, which include cleaning, conditioning, and restoring the fur’s natural oils. This service can be particularly useful for jackets that have become dry or stiff over time.

Conclusion: Keep Your Fur Jacket Looking Luxurious

Taking proper care of your fur jacket is essential for preserving its beauty, warmth, and luxurious appeal. From proper storage and cleaning to avoiding damage and maintaining the texture, following these tips will ensure that your jacket remains a stunning investment piece for many years. Whether you own real fur or faux fur, regular care and maintenance will allow you to enjoy the glamour and warmth of your fur jacket while keeping it in pristine condition season after season.