1. Cleaning Your Fur Jacket: Gentle Is Key

Fur jackets can easily get dirty or dusty, and cleaning them properly is crucial to maintain their softness and sheen. Here’s how to clean your jacket without causing damage:

For Real Fur

• Professional Cleaning: Real fur requires special care, so it’s always best to take your jacket to a professional furrier for cleaning. Professionals have the expertise and equipment to clean fur properly without compromising its structure or color. They will also use gentle products that won’t strip away the natural oils in the fur.
• Spot Cleaning: For minor stains or spills, avoid scrubbing. Instead, blot the affected area with a clean, soft cloth. For stubborn stains, you may want to take the jacket to a dry cleaner who specializes in fur.

For Faux Fur

• Hand Wash or Machine Wash: Faux fur is more forgiving than real fur when it comes to cleaning. Depending on the manufacturer’s care instructions, you may be able to hand wash or machine wash your faux fur jacket on a gentle cycle with cold water. Use a mild detergent to avoid damaging the fibers.
• Shampoo Method: For light cleaning, you can use a gentle shampoo specifically designed for fur or wool. Lather the shampoo in a bowl of cold water, then gently work it into the faux fur using your hands or a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly, and avoid wringing out the fabric.
• Drying: After cleaning, let your faux fur jacket air dry by laying it flat on a towel. Never place it in a dryer, as the heat can damage the fibers and alter the jacket’s appearance. Gently fluff the fur with your fingers to restore its softness.

2. Brushing Your Fur Jacket: Keep It Fluffy

One of the best ways to keep your fur jacket looking fresh is to brush it regularly. This helps prevent matting and tangling, which can cause the fur to lose its softness and shine.

For Real Fur

• Brush Gently: Use a soft-bristled brush made specifically for fur to comb through your jacket. Always brush in the direction of the fur’s natural flow. Be sure not to tug too hard, as this could damage the fibers.
• Avoid Over-Brushing: Brushing too frequently can cause shedding, so aim to brush your fur jacket only when necessary, such as after wearing it or after cleaning.

For Faux Fur

• Use a Wide-Tooth Comb: For faux fur, a wide-tooth comb works well to detangle the fibers. Gently comb through the fur to remove any knots or tangles. Be cautious not to pull too hard, as this can cause the fibers to break or lose their shape.
• Fluffing with Fingers: After brushing, use your fingers to gently fluff the faux fur. This helps the fibers regain their natural volume and softness.

3. Storing Your Fur Jacket: Proper Storage Prevents Damage

How you store your fur jacket plays a significant role in preserving its appearance. Improper storage can cause the fur to become flattened, discolored, or damaged. Here’s how to store your jacket to keep it looking its best:

For Real Fur

• Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Always store your real fur jacket in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight or humidity. Heat can cause the fur to dry out and become brittle, while excess moisture can lead to mildew or rot.
• Use a Padded Hanger: Never store your fur jacket on a regular wire hanger. Use a padded hanger designed specifically for fur to maintain the jacket’s shape. This helps prevent the fur from becoming crushed or misshapen.
• Store in a Garment Bag: For added protection, store your fur jacket in a breathable garment bag to shield it from dust, dirt, and sunlight. Avoid plastic garment bags, as they can trap moisture and cause mildew.

For Faux Fur

• Hang It Properly: Faux fur should be hung on a sturdy hanger with enough space around the jacket to avoid crushing the fibers. A padded hanger works best for preserving the shape of the jacket.
• Use a Fabric Bag: When storing your faux fur jacket long-term, consider using a fabric garment bag to protect it from dust and dirt. Faux fur can be more prone to collecting lint, so a fabric bag helps keep it clean.
• Avoid Compression: If you’re storing your faux fur jacket for a long period, avoid packing it into tight spaces or compressing it too much, as this can ruin the texture of the fibers.

4. Protecting Your Fur Jacket from the Elements

Fur jackets are meant to keep you warm in cold weather, but exposure to rain, snow, or salt from the roads can cause damage over time. Here’s how to protect your fur jacket when facing the elements:

• Waterproofing: Apply a waterproofing spray designed for fur and leather to protect your jacket from moisture. For faux fur, check the label to ensure the spray is safe for synthetic fibers.
• Avoid Wet Conditions: If possible, avoid wearing your fur jacket in heavy rain or snow. If the jacket does get wet, shake it gently to remove excess water and allow it to dry naturally in a cool, dry area.
• Salt Stains: In snowy or icy weather, salt can damage the fur and leave stains. If your jacket comes into contact with salt, wipe the area immediately with a damp cloth. For real fur, consult a professional to remove salt stains.

5. Repairing and Restoring Your Fur Jacket

Over time, even the best-loved fur jackets may experience some wear and tear. Whether it’s a small tear in the lining or a minor fur fiber problem, prompt repair can restore your jacket to its former glory.

• Minor Repairs: For minor issues like loose stitching or small rips in the lining, consider doing the repairs yourself if you’re skilled with a needle and thread. Use a small, discreet stitch to avoid drawing attention to the repair.
• Professional Restoration: If your jacket has significant damage, consider taking it to a professional furrier. Experts can repair tears, reline the jacket, and even restore the fur to its original softness.

6. Freshening Up Your Fur Jacket

To keep your fur jacket smelling fresh between cleanings, lightly spray it with a fabric refresher designed for delicate materials. You can also place a few cedar blocks or lavender sachets in the closet to keep your jacket smelling pleasant.

Conclusion

Proper care of your fur jacket, whether real or faux, is essential to maintaining its luxurious appearance and ensuring it lasts for many years. With gentle cleaning, regular brushing, appropriate storage, and timely repairs, you can keep your fur jacket looking new and fresh, no matter how many seasons you wear it. By following these simple steps, your fur jacket will remain a stylish, functional, and long-lasting wardrobe staple for many winters to come.