How to Store Fur Coat

How to Store Fur Coat

Maintaining your fur coat in pristine condition is a challenging task, even for the most diligent caretakers. The natural oils in fur, the moisture-absorbing properties of wool, and the inherent lanolin in animal hides can all impact a garment if it's not stored correctly. To preserve the elegance and longevity of your fur coat, proper storage is crucial. In this guide, you’ll discover how to store fur coats with detailed instructions, ideal storage conditions, and tips to avoid common issues.

Why Proper Storage Matters for Fur Coats

Understanding how to store fur coats is important to maintain their appearance and extend their lifespan. As, the natural oils in fur keep it supple and shiny, but these oils can dry out if not stored correctly. Properly storing fur coats involves special handling to maintain their quality and longevity. Moreover, without appropriate storage conditions, furs can dry out rapidly, leading to brittleness and damage.

Imagine the heartbreak of discovering your beloved fur garment has dried out and cracked because it was not stored in the right conditions. Furthermore, if you want to extend its lifespan, it is important to keep your fur coat in cold storage. Therefore, the longer it remains in that environment, the better it will endure. This is because cold fur storage helps preserve the natural oils within the fur, ensuring it remains soft and lustrous for years to come. Now, let's understand the best way to store fur coats.

Storing Fur Coats

Storing Fur Coats

Preparing Your Fur Coat for Storage

Before you store your coat, it is important to make sure your fur coat is clean and in perfect condition. This is because dirt and debris can cause significant damage over time, leading to holes and fur matting. Repairing small tears or cuts before storage prevents them from expanding into more significant problems.

Once your fur coat is clean and repaired, consider conditioning it to restore its natural oils. Conditioning helps maintain the fur’s suppleness and shine, ensuring it remains in top condition while in storage. If you’re considering a new look for your fur, now is also an excellent time for fur restyling before putting it into storage.

Ideal Conditions for Storing Fur Garments

The ideal storage environment for fur is 50°F with 50% humidity, which is difficult to achieve with fur storage at home. Storing fur at temperatures between 45°F and 55°F preserves the natural oils within the fur, keeping it soft and supple. Humidity levels between 45% and 55% prevent mold and preserve fur quality. This 45/55 rule indicates both the temperature and humidity levels are ideal for fur storage.

However, if you want fur coat storage at home, it is ideal to store it in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated environment. If you live in a humid area, it’s recommended to keep a dehumidifier in the storage area to prevent excessive moisture, which can damage the fur and lead to molding. Moreover, always try to condition your fur product before storage to help maintain the fur’s natural oils, keeping it supple.

You should also consider getting insurance regardless of whether you have fur storage at home or a facility. When the fur starts getting old, it is at risk of damage from sunlight and humidity, which can lead to premature matting.

Choosing the Right Storage Bag

Choosing the Right Storage Bag

The type of storage bag you use for fur coats also matters. Using breathable cotton garment bags can protect fur from dust while allowing air circulation. These bags provide the necessary airflow to prevent fur from drying out.

Avoid plastic bags at all costs. A plastic bag can cause moisture accumulation, which is harmful to fur. They also trap moisture, reducing airflow and causing damage.

Where a fur coat should be stored?

Professional storage facilities maintain temperatures below 55°F and humidity between 45-50% to preserve fur coats. This climate-controlled storage helps protect fur from both insect damage and heat-related deterioration. If you live in hot, humid climates and can't really go through the hassle of giving your coat the proper environment.

Heat exposure can cause fur to dry out, leading to shedding and damage to the pelts. Therefore, the best way to store fur coats for you is to choose a storage location that provides a stable, cool, and dry environment. Professional furriers provide proper care and maintenance for fur coats. These facilities store fur coats in optimal conditions, significantly reducing the risk of damage.

Avoiding Common Storage Mistakes

Avoid using mothballs for fur storage, as they emit toxic gases that can seriously damage fur. Mothballs absorb moisture and contain naphthalene, a toxic hydrocarbon that poses risks to both fur and health.

Moreover, wire hangers can misshape the fur coat and lead to permanent creases, so avoid using them. Depletion of natural oils in fur can cause it to tear easily, compromising the coat’s integrity.

How to Properly Store Fur Coats During the Off-Season

How to Properly Store Fur Coats During the Off-Season

Understanding how to store fur coats at home isn't that hard. Just follow these simple rules of thumb. Get a broad-shouldered hanger so that you don't distort the fur shape. A dark storage area is ideal as sunlight can fade and dry the fur out. Also, make sure you don't overcrowd the storage space to prevent crushing and deformation. Give your fur coat enough space to breathe and keep it looking its best for the next season.

Insuring Your Fur Coat

Insuring valuable fur garments provides financial protection against damage or loss, especially during off-season storage. Insurance coverage for furs is provided from the moment they are picked up until they are returned.

The cost of fur storage can vary, but it is definitely a steep amount, and insurance typically raises the total expense by a small percentage, making it a worthwhile investment.

Summary

Properly storing fur coats is not just about keeping them out of sight during the off-season; it's about preserving their beauty and functionality for the long term. By ensuring you know how to store your fur, you shield it from the harmful effects of dryness, heat, and humidity.

Moreover, taking the time to store your fur coat correctly guarantees it remains a treasured piece in your wardrobe, ready to be worn when the season changes. By adhering to these guidelines, you equip yourself with the knowledge to care for your fur garments effectively, ensuring they continue to provide warmth and elegance for many years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it important to store fur coats properly?

Storing fur coats properly is crucial as it preserves their natural oils, which extends their lifespan and prevents brittleness and damage. This care ensures your investment remains beautiful and lasts for years to come.

 

What steps should I take before storing my fur coat?

Before storing your fur coat, ensure it is thoroughly cleaned, repaired, and conditioned to restore its natural oils. Additionally, restyling should be considered if necessary to maintain its appearance.

 

What are the ideal conditions for storing fur garments?

The ideal conditions for storing fur garments are a temperature of 50°F and 50% humidity, preserving the fur’s suppleness and preventing mold growth. Maintaining these conditions is crucial for the longevity of your fur.

 

What type of storage bag should I use for my fur coat?

For any type of fur coat, a breathable cotton garment bag is ideal as it protects the fur from dust while allowing for necessary air circulation. This choice ensures your coat stays in excellent condition.

 

Should I insure my fur coat during storage?

Insuring your fur coat during storage is a wise decision as it offers financial protection against potential damage or loss. It ensures that your investment is safeguarded.

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