How To Store Fur Coats At Home

How to Store Fur Coats at Home: The Ultimate Guide to Protecting Your Investment

Storing fur coats properly is crucial for preserving their luxurious quality and extending their lifespan. A poorly stored fur coat can quickly become damaged, losing its shape, sheen, and overall value. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the best practices for storing your fur coats at home, ensuring they remain in pristine condition for years to come.

Preparing Your Fur Coat for Storage

Before you even think about putting your coat away, proper preparation is key. This step often gets overlooked but is vital for long-term preservation.

Cleaning is Crucial:

• Professional Cleaning: The most important step is to have your fur coat professionally cleaned before storage. A professional cleaner will remove any dirt, oil, or lingering odors that can attract pests and damage the fur over time. This is especially important if you wore the coat frequently during the season.
• Air It Out: If professional cleaning isn't immediately feasible, at least air out your coat thoroughly in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat. This helps to remove any lingering smells or minor surface debris.

Minor Repairs:

• Address Damage: Before storage, inspect your coat for any minor damages, such as loose stitches or small tears. Addressing these issues before storing will prevent further damage and potentially more costly repairs later on.

Choosing the Right Storage Environment

The environment you choose for storing your fur coat is equally crucial as the preparation. The wrong environment can lead to damage and deterioration.

Cool, Dry, and Dark:

• Temperature and Humidity: The ideal storage environment is cool, dry, and dark. Fluctuations in temperature and humidity are particularly damaging to fur. Avoid attics and basements, which tend to experience extreme temperature and humidity swings.
• Darkness is Key: Direct sunlight can fade the color of your fur coat and cause it to become brittle. Therefore, selecting a dark storage area is essential.

The Best Storage Options:

• Dedicated Garment Bags: Use high-quality breathable garment bags specifically designed for fur storage. These bags protect against dust, moisture, and light. Avoid using plastic bags, as they can trap moisture and cause mildew.
• Cedar Chests: Cedar chests provide an excellent environment for fur storage because the cedar scent helps to repel moths and other insects. However, ensure the chest is airtight and well-ventilated to prevent moisture buildup.
• Climate-Controlled Storage: If you have a particularly valuable fur coat or live in an area with extreme climate fluctuations, consider using a climate-controlled storage unit.

Protecting Your Fur Coat During Storage

Even with the right environment, taking extra precautions ensures your fur coat's longevity.

Stuffing and Shaping:

• Maintain Shape: To prevent the coat from losing its shape, gently stuff the sleeves and shoulders with acid-free tissue paper. This helps maintain the structure and prevent creases.
• Avoid Over-stuffing: Be careful not to over-stuff the garment, as this can damage the fur.

Pest Prevention:

• Mothballs are Outdated: Avoid using mothballs or other chemical repellents, as they can damage the fur and leave a lingering odor. Instead, use natural repellents like cedar chips or sachets of lavender.

Retrieving and Caring for Your Fur Coat

When you retrieve your fur coat from storage, remember to:

• Gentle Handling: Handle the coat gently to avoid damaging the fur fibers.
• Air It Out: Allow the coat to air out in a well-ventilated area before wearing to remove any lingering odors.
• Professional Cleaning (Again): Consider professional cleaning again after storage before wearing, to ensure it's in perfect condition.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your valuable fur coat remains in excellent condition for many years to come. Remember, proper storage is an investment in the longevity and beauty of your cherished garment.