how to store fur coats

4 min read 07-02-2025

Meta Description: Learn how to properly store fur coats to maintain their luxurious quality and extend their lifespan. This comprehensive guide covers cleaning, preparation, and storage solutions for optimal preservation. Discover the best methods for protecting your fur investment from moths, mildew, and damage, ensuring your coats remain beautiful for years to come.

Protecting Your Precious Fur: A Step-by-Step Guide to Fur Coat Storage

Fur coats are luxurious investments. Proper storage is crucial to preserving their beauty and value. This guide provides a comprehensive approach to ensure your fur coats remain in pristine condition for years to come. Ignoring proper storage techniques can lead to irreversible damage from moths, mildew, or simply wear and tear. Let’s dive into the best practices for protecting your valuable fur garments.

Preparing Your Fur Coat for Storage

Before storing your fur coat, proper preparation is key. This involves professional cleaning and careful inspection.

Professional Cleaning is Essential:

Why it matters: Dirt, sweat, and other residues attract moths and can damage the fur fibers over time.
Expert care: Take your coat to a reputable furrier or dry cleaner specializing in fur. They have the expertise and tools to clean delicate furs without causing damage.
Avoid DIY: Attempting to clean your fur coat at home can easily ruin it.

Inspecting for Damage:

Careful examination: Before storage, meticulously examine your coat for any existing damage, such as tears, loose stitching, or worn areas.
Professional repair: Address any damage before storage. A furrier can expertly repair tears and reinforce weak areas.
Prevention is key: Addressing minor issues early prevents them from becoming major problems.

Choosing the Right Storage Environment

The storage environment plays a significant role in preserving your fur coat. Factors like temperature, humidity, and light exposure significantly impact the fur's condition.

Temperature and Humidity Control:

Cool, dry place: The ideal storage temperature is cool and dry, around 50-60°F (10-15°C) with 40-50% humidity.
Avoid fluctuations: Extreme temperature or humidity changes can damage the fur.
Climate-controlled storage: If you live in an area with significant humidity fluctuations, consider climate-controlled storage.

Protection from Light:

Darkness is best: Sunlight and artificial light can fade the fur's color.
Dark storage: Store your coat in a dark closet or storage unit.
Opaque bags: Use dark-colored, opaque garment bags.

Selecting the Appropriate Storage Container

The storage container protects your coat from dust, pests, and damage. The right container is crucial for long-term preservation.

Cedar Chest or Armoire:

Natural protection: Cedar chests offer natural moth repellent properties.
Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation to prevent mildew.
Proper fit: Choose a chest large enough to accommodate your coat without crushing it.

Garment Bags:

Breathable material: Use breathable garment bags made of cotton or muslin.
Avoid plastic: Plastic bags trap moisture and can promote mildew growth.
Proper sealing: Ensure the bag is securely sealed to prevent pest intrusion.

Protective Paper:

Acid-free tissue paper: Wrap your coat in acid-free tissue paper to prevent discoloration and absorb moisture.
Avoid newspaper: Newspaper ink can stain delicate furs.
Gentle handling: Handle the tissue paper gently to avoid damaging the fur.

Protecting Your Fur Coat from Pests

Moths and other pests can cause significant damage to fur coats. Implementing preventative measures is essential to safeguard your investment.

Mothballs or Cedar Chips:

Natural deterrents: Mothballs and cedar chips are natural deterrents that repel moths.
Proper placement: Place them strategically within the storage container, ensuring they don’t directly touch the fur.
Ventilation: Adequate ventilation is crucial to prevent overexposure to strong odors.

Regular Inspection:

Seasonal checks: Inspect your coat regularly, at least twice a year, for any signs of pest infestation.
Early detection: Early detection and treatment prevent widespread damage.
Professional cleaning: If you notice signs of pest infestation, contact a professional fur cleaner for treatment.

How to Store Different Types of Fur

Different furs have varying sensitivities. Specific storage approaches help maintain the quality of various fur types.

Storing Mink Coats:

Gentle handling: Mink fur is relatively delicate. Handle it with care during storage and cleaning.
Cool, dry environment: Store in a cool, dry, and dark environment.
Professional cleaning: Regular professional cleaning is recommended.

Storing Fox Fur Coats:

Less delicate: Fox fur is generally more durable than mink. It still requires proper storage to prevent damage.
Similar conditions: Similar storage conditions as mink apply - cool, dark, and dry.
Regular inspections: Regular inspections are crucial to identify any pest infestations.

Storing Chinchilla Fur Coats:

Delicate and valuable: Chinchilla fur is extremely soft and delicate. Requires extra care.
Professional care: Professional cleaning and storage are highly recommended for chinchilla coats.
Specialized storage: Consider specialized storage options such as climate-controlled facilities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How often should I clean my fur coat?

A: It's recommended to have your fur coat professionally cleaned at least once a year. More frequent cleaning may be necessary depending on how often you wear it.

Q: Can I use a regular garment bag to store my fur coat?

A: No, avoid using plastic garment bags. They trap moisture and can damage your fur coat. Use breathable cotton or muslin bags instead.

Q: What should I do if I find moths in my fur coat storage?

A: If you find moths, immediately remove your fur coat and have it professionally cleaned. Thoroughly clean the storage area to eliminate the infestation.

Conclusion: Preserve Your Fur Coat's Luxury

Proper storage is paramount for preserving the beauty and value of your fur coat. By following these guidelines—from professional cleaning to selecting the right storage container and implementing pest prevention—you'll ensure your precious fur investment remains a cherished item for many years to come. Remember, prevention and proactive care are key to maintaining the luxurious quality of your fur coats.