How to Clean and Store Vintage Fur
Spring is just around the corner which means we’ll be putting away our fur for the seasons ahead. While you may be inclined to just hang it up in a closet and walk away, you need to take care of your fur so it stays in pristine condition and lasts you for decades to come.
When the warmer seasons come around, it’s important to store your vintage fur in a way that’s going to protect it and keep it feeling and looking good as new. Taking a little extra time to pack up these garments is going to save you a lot of money in the long run. Here are some of my best tips on how to clean and store vintage fur.
- Temperature and lighting are key when it comes to your storage spot.
Think of your vintage fur as a vampire – store it somewhere cool, where the sun doesn’t shine. Ideal temperatures are around 55℉ (13℃) to protect the fur from deteriorating, but be sure that your space doesn’t go below 34℉ (1℃). Hot, humid and cold temps are no-gos for these investment pieces. Moderate temperatures with a tiny bit of moisture (not too dry!) is key to keeping your fur looking fresh.
- Proper storage items go a long way.
From hangers to garment bags, fur is as high maintenance as they come. However, if you make an initial investment in quality items, they will help to keep your fur in tip top shape. The right hanger will help your item to keep its shape, one that is large enough to support the shape and weight is ideal – they have wide shoulder or suit hangers that should do the trick. As for a garment bag, you want something that is going to let your fur breathe. No plastic bags please. Cotton is a good bet, as it lets air in and out so your fur can breathe and not dry out. This 100% cotton garment bag is a great choice.
- Be weary of moths.
Whatever you use to keep moths away, make sure it smells good and is suitable to be stored alongside fur. The smell of mothballs transfers to fur and to get it out of the fur is near impossible. Try spraying lavender or placing lavender scented pouches (I use these) in the storage space. If you prefer the natural route, try to find a moth repellent spray that smells good. Shake out your coats often, maybe once a month, to ensure nothing is making a home in your fur.
- Give your fur some space.
Your storage space for your fur shouldn’t be cramped. You want it to hang on its own, not being pushed against anything that would make it lose its shape. This is not the coat to cram into the winter coat closet, only to be remembered come the colder months. Additionally, make sure the garment bag you choose gives the fur enough room to roam within it – not too loose and not too tight.
- Invest in getting it cleaned every other season or two.
Every few years, consider taking it to a professional fur storage facility to have them take a look at your garment for any sign of wear or damage. They can give it a good clean to protect it from unwanted oils or smells that you don’t want haunting you down the line.
Storing fur takes a little more thought than stuffing it into a storage cube for a season or two, but if you take good care of it, it will offer you a return on your investment tenfold. Stylish, timeless and warm to boot, this piece will be something you can pass down through generations.
