How to Clean Fur Coat

What You'll Need

• Wide-tooth comb or fur brush
• Cornstarch or talcum powder
• White vinegar
• Soft cloth
• Padded hanger

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1

   Shake and brush the fur

   Shake the coat gently to remove dust and debris. Brush with a wide-tooth comb or fur brush in the direction of the fur grain.

2. 2

   Spot clean stains

   Dampen a cloth with a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar. Dab stains gently -- never rub. Work from the outside of the stain inward.

3. 3

   Absorb oils with powder

   For greasy spots, sprinkle cornstarch or talcum powder on the area. Let sit for several hours or overnight, then brush out.

4. 4

   Air out regularly

   Hang the coat on a padded hanger in a well-ventilated area for several hours to freshen. Avoid direct sunlight.

Pro Tips

• TIPProfessional fur cleaning and cold storage once a year is recommended for expensive fur coats to preserve the pelts.
• TIPNever store fur in plastic -- it needs to breathe. Use a breathable cloth garment bag.
• TIPIf fur gets wet, shake off excess water, hang on a padded hanger, and let dry naturally at room temperature.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• XUsing heat of any kind to dry fur, which dries out the pelts, causes shedding, and makes fur brittle.
• XSpraying perfume directly on fur, which contains alcohol that dries out and damages the pelts.
• XStoring fur in a hot or humid environment, which causes the pelts to dry out, crack, and shed.

Frequently Asked Questions