If you’re lucky enough to own real fur, it’s important to take proper care of it to keep it looking its best. While some fur garments should be dry cleaned only, it’s still possible to clean and wash real fur at home if you follow a few simple steps. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about washing real fur, including the tools you’ll need, the best techniques to use, and some tips and tricks to keep your fur in great condition for years to come.
What You’ll Need
Before you begin washing your real fur garment, there are a few tools you should gather to make the process easier and more effective. Here’s what you’ll need:
– A large, clean basin or sink
– Mild shampoo or special fur shampoo
– Clean towels or a clean, absorbent cloth
– A garment hanger with a wide, padded shoulder area
– A large, well-ventilated room to let the fur garment dry completely
Steps to Wash Real Fur
Now that you have your tools ready, it’s time to get started. Here are the steps you should follow to wash your real fur garment at home:
1. Start by brushing your fur garment gently with a soft-bristled brush. This will help remove any dirt or debris that may be stuck to the fur.
2. Fill a large, clean basin or sink with cool water and add a small amount of mild shampoo or special fur shampoo. Be sure to use a shampoo that’s specifically designed for cleaning fur, as regular shampoo can damage the delicate hairs.
3. Gently submerge the fur garment in the water, making sure it’s completely covered. Use your hands to press the garment down and agitate the water gently. Do not wring or twist the fur, as this can cause damage.
4. After a few minutes, drain the soapy water and fill the basin or sink with fresh, cool water. Rinse the fur garment thoroughly, making sure all of the soap has been removed.
5. Gently squeeze the excess water from the fur garment, being careful not to wring or twist the fur. You can use a clean, absorbent cloth or towel to help soak up the water.
6. Hang the fur garment on your padded hanger, making sure the shoulders are well-supported. Do not hang the garment in direct sunlight or near a heat source, as this can damage the fur.
7. Allow the fur garment to dry completely, which may take several hours or even overnight. Once it’s dry, you can gently brush it again to help restore its natural shine and softness.
Tips and Tricks for Washing Real Fur
Here are a few additional tips and tricks to keep in mind as you wash your real fur garment:
– Always use cool water, as hot water can cause the fur to shrink or become matted.
– Avoid using any harsh chemicals or detergents, as these can damage the delicate hairs.
– If your fur garment becomes soaked or wet in the rain, shake off any excess water and let it air dry naturally. Do not use a hair dryer or other heat source to dry the fur.
– Never store your fur garment in a plastic bag, as this can cause it to lose its shape and become damaged over time.
– If you’re unsure about washing your real fur garment at home, or if it’s particularly valuable or delicate, it’s best to take it to a professional fur cleaner instead.
Conclusion
Washing real fur doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right tools, techniques, and a little bit of patience, you can clean and care for your fur garments at home, keeping them looking beautiful for years to come.
FAQs
1. Can I wash my fur coat in the washing machine?
No, it’s not recommended to wash real fur in a washing machine as the tumbling motion can damage the fur.
2. How often should I wash my fur garment?
It depends on how often you wear it and how dirty it becomes. You should aim to wash your fur garment as infrequently as possible to avoid causing damage to the delicate hairs.
3. Do I need to condition my fur after washing it?
It’s not necessary to condition real fur after washing it. Simply hang it to dry and gently brush it to restore its natural texture.
4. Can I use regular shampoo to wash my fur?
No, it’s important to use a shampoo that’s specifically designed for cleaning fur to avoid damaging the delicate hairs.
5. How should I store my fur garment?
It’s best to store your fur garment in a cool, dry place that’s well-ventilated, and to avoid folding or crushing it. You can use a padded hanger or a fur storage bag to help protect it from damage.
