Storing a fur coat properly will help to protect your valuable investment and keep it looking its best for years to come.
Here are a few tips on how to store a fur coat:
- Choose a cool, dark place to store your fur coat. Avoid areas that are exposed to direct sunlight or heat, as this can damage the fur.
- Store your fur coat in a breathable garment bag. A plastic bag can trap moisture, which can damage the fur.
- Place cedar chips or mothballs in the garment bag to help repel insects. Be sure to keep the garment bag closed tightly to prevent the insects from getting in.
- Hang your fur coat on a padded hanger. This will help to prevent the fur from becoming misshapen.
- Take your fur coat to a professional furrier for cleaning and storage every few years. A furrier will be able to clean the fur properly and store it in a climate-controlled environment.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your fur coat looking its best for many years to come.
1. Cool and dark
Storing a fur coat in a cool and dark place is crucial for its preservation. Direct sunlight and heat can damage the fur, causing it to become dry, brittle, and discoloured. A cool and dark environment, on the other hand, helps to maintain the fur’s natural moisture and lustre.
The ideal storage temperature for a fur coat is between 40 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit (4 to 10 degrees Celsius). A cool basement or closet that is not exposed to direct sunlight is a suitable storage location. Avoid storing the fur coat in an attic or garage, as these areas can become too hot or cold.
In addition to temperature, humidity is also an important factor to consider when storing a fur coat. The ideal humidity level for fur storage is between 40 and 50 percent. If the humidity is too low, the fur can become dry and brittle. If the humidity is too high, the fur can become mouldy or mildew.
By storing your fur coat in a cool, dark place with the appropriate humidity level, you can help to extend its lifespan and maintain its beauty.
2. Breathable storage
Using a breathable garment bag is essential for storing fur coats because it allows air to circulate and prevents moisture from accumulating. This helps to protect the fur from damage and keeps it looking its best.
- Protects against moisture: Breathable garment bags help to protect fur coats from moisture, which can cause the fur to become matted and damaged. Natural materials like cotton and linen absorb moisture, helping to keep the fur dry and preventing the growth of mould and mildew.
- Prevents odours: Breathable garment bags also help to prevent odours from developing in fur coats. Odours can be caused by bacteria and other microorganisms that thrive in moist environments. By keeping the fur dry and well-ventilated, breathable garment bags help to prevent the growth of these microorganisms and keep the fur coat smelling fresh.
- Extends the lifespan of the fur coat: By protecting the fur from moisture and odours, breathable garment bags help to extend the lifespan of the fur coat. A well-cared-for fur coat can last for many years, providing years of warmth and enjoyment.
In conclusion, using a breathable garment bag is an essential part of storing a fur coat properly. By protecting the fur from moisture and odours, breathable garment bags help to extend the lifespan of the fur coat and keep it looking its best.
3. Pest prevention
When storing a fur coat, it is important to take steps to prevent pests from damaging the fur. Pests such as moths and carpet beetles can feed on the fur, causing it to become damaged and matted. Cedar chips and mothballs are two effective ways to repel pests and protect your fur coat.
- Cedar chips: Cedar chips are a natural pest repellent. The scent of cedar wood is unpleasant to pests, and it can help to keep them away from your fur coat. Cedar chips can be placed in a sachet or bag and placed in the storage area with your fur coat.
- Mothballs: Mothballs are another effective way to repel pests. Mothballs contain a chemical called naphthalene, which is a powerful insect repellent. Mothballs can be placed in a sachet or bag and placed in the storage area with your fur coat. However, it is important to use mothballs sparingly, as they can be harmful if ingested.
By taking steps to prevent pests, you can help to protect your fur coat and keep it looking its best.
4. Proper hanging
Proper hanging is an essential aspect of storing a fur coat to prevent misshaping and maintain its original form. Suspending the coat on a padded hanger helps preserve its shape and structure, ensuring it remains ready to wear without any creases or indentations.
- Prevention of shoulder bumps: Padded hangers distribute the weight of the coat evenly, preventing the formation of unsightly bumps on the shoulders that can occur when hanging on a thin or wire hanger.
- Maintaining the natural shape: The padded structure of the hanger conforms to the shape of the coat, supporting it and preventing it from stretching or sagging out of shape.
- Preservation of delicate fabrics: The soft padding of the hanger protects the delicate fabrics of the fur coat from snags or tears that can occur when rubbing against a hard surface.
- Ease of access: Padded hangers make it easier to retrieve the coat from storage without causing any damage or disturbing its shape.
By properly hanging your fur coat on a padded hanger, you can safeguard its shape, extend its lifespan, and ensure it retains its beauty and elegance for years to come.
5. Professional care
Professional care is an essential component of “How To Store Fur Coat” as it contributes to the preservation, longevity, and maintenance of the fur coat’s quality and appearance. Regular cleaning by a professional furrier ensures the removal of dirt, dust, and oils that can accumulate on the fur over time, potentially causing damage and dulling its luster.
Proper storage provided by a professional furrier involves climate-controlled environments that maintain optimal temperature and humidity levels, preventing the fur from drying out or becoming susceptible to mold and mildew. Additionally, professional furriers utilize specialized storage techniques, such as cold storage vaults, to protect the fur from insects, pests, and fluctuations in temperature and humidity.
Regular professional care not only enhances the appearance and feel of the fur coat but also extends its lifespan by addressing potential issues early on. Professional furriers are trained to identify and treat any signs of damage or wear, ensuring timely repairs and maintenance to preserve the integrity of the fur coat.
By entrusting your fur coat to a professional furrier for regular cleaning and storage, you ensure its optimal preservation, extending its beauty and value for generations to come.
FAQs on “How To Store Fur Coat”
This section addresses frequently asked questions and misconceptions surrounding the proper storage of fur coats, providing clear and informative answers.
Question 1: Why is it important to store fur coats properly?
Answer: Proper storage is crucial for preserving the quality, appearance, and lifespan of a fur coat. It protects the fur from damage caused by elements such as sunlight, heat, humidity, pests, and improper handling.
Question 2: What is the ideal temperature and humidity range for storing fur coats?
Answer: Fur coats should be stored in a cool and dark place with a temperature between 40-50F (4-10C) and a humidity level between 40-50%. These conditions prevent the fur from drying out or becoming susceptible to mold and mildew.
Question 3: Is it better to store fur coats in a garment bag or a box?
Answer: Breathable garment bags made of natural materials like cotton or linen are recommended for storing fur coats. Boxes can trap moisture, which can damage the fur.
Question 4: How often should fur coats be professionally cleaned?
Answer: Regular professional cleaning is essential to maintain the appearance and longevity of a fur coat. The frequency of cleaning depends on factors such as the type of fur, the climate, and how often the coat is worn. Generally, it is recommended to have the coat professionally cleaned every 2-3 years.
Question 5: What are some common mistakes to avoid when storing fur coats?
Answer: Common mistakes include storing the coat in a warm or humid environment, using plastic bags for storage, and not taking the coat to a professional furrier for regular cleaning and maintenance.
Question 6: Can fur coats be stored in a cedar closet?
Answer: Yes, cedar closets can be an effective way to store fur coats as the natural oils in cedar repel insects and help prevent damage.
Tips on How to Store Fur Coats
To ensure the longevity and beauty of fur coats, proper storage is essential. Here are some key tips to follow:
Tip 1: Choose the Right Storage LocationStore your fur coat in a cool, dark place with consistent temperature and humidity levels. Avoid areas exposed to direct sunlight, heat sources, or excessive moisture.Tip 2: Use Breathable Garment BagsOpt for breathable garment bags made of natural materials like cotton or linen. These materials allow air circulation, preventing moisture accumulation that can damage the fur.Tip 3: Protect Against PestsPlace cedar chips or mothballs in the storage area to repel insects and prevent damage to the fur. Ensure the storage area is sealed to prevent pest entry.Tip 4: Hang ProperlyUse padded hangers to maintain the shape of the fur coat. Avoid wire or thin hangers that can cause indentations or stretching.Tip 5: Regular Professional CareTake your fur coat to a professional furrier for regular cleaning and maintenance. They can assess the condition of the fur, address any issues, and ensure proper storage techniques are followed.Tip 6: Avoid Plastic StorageNever store fur coats in plastic bags, as they trap moisture and can lead to damage.Tip 7: Keep Away from Heat SourcesStore fur coats away from radiators, fireplaces, or other heat sources that can dry out and damage the fur.Tip 8: Monitor Temperature and HumidityUse a hygrometer to monitor the temperature and humidity levels in the storage area. Adjust as necessary to maintain optimal conditions for fur storage.
Conclusion
Storing fur coats properly is essential to preserve their beauty, longevity, and value. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure that your fur coat remains in pristine condition for years to come.
Remember, proper storage involves choosing a cool, dark, and humidified environment, using breathable garment bags, protecting against pests, hanging properly, and seeking regular professional care. By adhering to these practices, you not only safeguard your investment but also preserve a cherished item that can be passed down through generations.
