How to Take Care of Fur Coats

A fur coat is a big investment. You want it to last for many years. With the proper care your fur should stand the test of time. Knowing how to store it and even how to wear it will keep it from looking worn or out of shape.

Things You'll Need

• Cloth cover
• Padded, broad-shouldered hanger

Instructions

1. Store your fur properly at a furrier's in a vault for the summer. The humidity, heat and forced air of air conditioning will all damage your fur. Also it is susceptible to moth or other insect damage as well as theft, so keep it safely stored away from all dangers.

2. Store it safely between wearings at home. Never cover the fur with plastic. The skin of the fur will dry out and cause the silk lining to rot. Store with a loose-fitting, dark colored fabric cover that is left open at the bottom. Keep the fur hung on a padded, broad-shouldered hanger.

3. Never store a fur with moth balls near it or in a cedar closet, as the fur will pick up those smells and over time it will smell, too. Keep your fur away from light. Leave room on either side of the coat because fur needs to breathe to stay supple and healthy looking.

4. Take your fur off of the hanger by slipping your hand under the shoulder and gently sliding off each side. Never pull it off the hanger as this will tear the lining and the fur itself. When you put your coat on, protect your neck area with a long scarf. Makeup will ruin the coat's lining.

5. Never put perfume on when it could get on your coat. The alcohol will stain the lining, dry out the pelt and the perfume smell could remain on the coat. The leather in the fur can become rancid so it's best to never spray anything around it. Use caution with a wet fur. Never use a hair dryer or hang a fur by a heater or in the sun. Shake it out well and hang it to dry in a room with good circulation. Fur dislikes the heat and sun; both will damage it.

6. Lift the coat up before you take a seat to avoid pulling on and tearing the lining while you are wearing it. Avoid metal belt buckles or chain belts which can also damage the silk lining. Never use a shoulder bag, particularly one with a chain or metal strap. Carry a purse with a hand strap or use a clutch purse. Never pin a corsage or piece of jewelry on a fur coat, and avoid bracelets that could snag on the lining or fur.

7. Wear your coat as often as you can. The warmth of your body will help to keep the coat from losing its shape. Use caution in the car, however and take it off if you can, rather than sitting on it for long periods of time. If you aren't driving, use the coat like a soft blanket on the top of your body.

8. Have your fur cleaned by a fur specialist. Never bring it to a dry cleaner. Only someone who deals with furs will know what treatment to use on the particular fur you have. All furs are not alike and some require much more delicate treatment than others.

9. Keep up with your fur's care. Keep it stored properly and get it professionally cleaned each year. It will last for many, many years with a little tender loving care.