How To Store A Fur Coat At Home

How to Store a Fur Coat at Home: The Ultimate Guide to Preserving Your Investment

Storing a fur coat properly is crucial for maintaining its luxurious texture, color, and overall condition. A poorly stored fur coat can suffer from damage caused by moths, dust, and improper handling, significantly reducing its lifespan and value. This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge to store your fur coat at home like a pro, ensuring it remains in pristine condition for years to come.

Preparing Your Fur Coat for Storage

Before you even think about putting your fur coat away, it needs some preparation. This crucial step prevents damage and ensures your fur stays in top shape.

Professional Cleaning is Key:

• The Importance of Professional Cleaning: Before storing your fur coat, it's absolutely essential to have it professionally cleaned. This removes dirt, dust, and any potential insect eggs or larvae that could feast on your garment. Think of it as an insurance policy against future damage.
• Why DIY Cleaning is a No-Go: Attempting to clean a fur coat yourself can lead to irreversible damage. Professional cleaners have specialized techniques and detergents that are gentle yet effective.

Inspecting Your Fur Coat:

• Checking for Damage: After cleaning, carefully inspect your fur coat for any existing damage, such as tears or loose seams. Address these issues with a professional tailor before storage to prevent further deterioration.
• Addressing Minor Issues: Minor repairs are best handled by a specialist before you store the coat. This proactive approach prevents small problems from becoming bigger ones later on.

Choosing the Right Storage Environment

The environment in which you store your fur coat is just as important as the preparation process.

The Ideal Storage Location:

• Cool, Dark, and Dry: The best storage environment for a fur coat is cool, dark, and dry. Avoid attics, basements, or other areas prone to fluctuating temperatures and humidity. These can cause significant damage to the fur.
• Temperature and Humidity Control: Maintaining a consistent temperature and humidity level is vital. Extreme fluctuations can cause the fur to dry out, become brittle, or even attract pests.
• Protection from Light: Sunlight and artificial light can fade the color of your fur coat over time. Storing it in a dark location will help preserve its vibrancy.

Selecting the Appropriate Storage Container

The container you choose for your fur coat is vital for its protection.

Types of Storage Bags:

• Breathable Storage Bags: Use a breathable garment bag or a specialized fur storage bag made from natural materials like cotton or muslin. These allow for air circulation while protecting the coat from dust and insects.
• Avoid Plastic Bags: Never store your fur coat in a plastic bag, as this can trap moisture and create the perfect environment for mold and mildew to grow.

Additional Protection:

• Cedar Blocks or Sachets: Consider adding cedar blocks or sachets to your storage bag. Cedar's natural scent repels moths and other insects.
• Tissue Paper: Gently wrap your fur coat in acid-free tissue paper before placing it in the storage bag. This will help to maintain its shape and prevent wrinkles.

Long-Term Storage Strategies:

• Regular Inspections: Even with the best precautions, it's important to periodically inspect your stored fur coat. At least once a year, remove it from storage, air it out, and check for any signs of damage or pest infestation.
• Professional Storage (Optional): For particularly valuable or delicate fur coats, consider professional climate-controlled storage. This is especially advisable for long periods of inactivity or if you lack ideal storage conditions at home.

By following these tips, you can keep your precious fur coat in perfect condition for many years to come, ensuring that your investment remains a treasured possession. Remember, proper storage is an investment in the longevity of your fur coat.