Care Guide Clothing
Fur Coats
We are very picky about the fur coats we source. We never sell fur coats with existing tears in the leather or signs of brittle, deteriorating leather. Usually (not always), those are signs that the fur coat has reached the end of its life. To make sure that your newly purchased item will last for many more years to come, we have compiled some good practice on how to care for your fur coat.
Cleaning
As fur coats are a natural product, they cannot be washed with water. Think of a leather jacket but with hair on it, it's pretty much the same. Never wash your coat by hand or in a washing machine, don’t tumble dry it or take it to a standard dry cleaner.
If you feel like your fur coat does need cleaning, we recommend taking it to a fur specialist. A fur specialist typically uses a rotating drum with specially treated sawdust to lift dirt and oils from the fur.
However, our local furrier generally advises against routine cleaning, recommending it only in severe cases. If you’re unsure, have your coat assessed by a professional before arranging any treatment.
Storage
Use a sturdy hanger with wide shoulders and give your coat plenty of space in a cool, dark, well-ventilated wardrobe. Avoid squeezing it between other clothes or storing it in plastic or vacuum bags. If you use a cover, choose a loose, breathable cotton one.
But be careful. We have seen many coats during our sourcing trips that were ruined beyond repair by humidity and by being stored in wet basements. Therefore, ensure the storing environment is always cool but dry. Damp storage, especially in basements or poorly ventilated spaces, can lead to mould and permanent damage. If you notice a musty smell or signs of mould, keep the coat separate from other clothing and ask a fur specialist to assess it. Severe mould damage can leave the leather beyond repair, in which case the coat will unfortunately need to be disposed of.
When wearing
Keep perfume and hairspray away from the fur, and avoid bags that constantly rub against the shoulders. Try to avoid heavy rain. If your coat gets damp, gently shake off the water and let it dry naturally in a ventilated room, away from radiators and hairdryers. If it gets soaked, contact a fur specialist.
How long can a fur coat last?
With proper care, a fur coat can last for decades. Its lifespan depends on the type of fur, how often it’s worn and how it’s been cared for. Some furs are naturally more delicate than others. Rabbit and chinchilla, for example, are beautifully soft but can show wear more quickly, especially in areas where bag straps or other surfaces repeatedly rub against them. They need particularly gentle handling and are better suited to occasional wear. Mink, beaver and Persian lamb (also known as astrakhan) are generally more durable and stand up better to regular use, although careful storage and handling are still essential.