How to Care for a Fur Coat: Cleaning & Conditioning Guide

A genuine fur coat is one of the most luxurious investments you can make in your wardrobe — and with the right care, it can last decades. Whether you own a classic mink, a plush fox, or a rich beaver fur coat, following these expert care guidelines will keep your piece looking and feeling its best for years to come.

Understanding Your Fur

Before cleaning or conditioning your fur coat, it helps to understand what you're working with. Natural fur consists of two layers: the dense underfur (for warmth) and the longer guard hairs (for lustre and appearance). Both layers need protection from heat, moisture, chemicals, and compression.

Browse our selection of premium fur coats to explore the variety of natural furs available — each with its own unique care requirements.

Day-to-Day Fur Coat Care

Shake it out gently after wearing to restore the natural fall of the fur.
Hang it properly on a broad, padded hanger — never a wire hanger that can distort the shoulders.
Keep it away from heat: radiators, sunny windowsills, and car heaters can dry out and crack the leather backing.
Let it breathe: fur needs air circulation. Never store it in a plastic bag or garment bag — only breathable fabric covers.
Avoid perfume and hairspray directly on the fur — the alcohol in these products can dry out and damage the guard hairs.

Cleaning a Fur Coat at Home vs. Professionally

What You Can Do at Home

Light maintenance between professional cleanings is safe if done carefully:

Surface dirt and dust: Gently shake the coat outdoors or lightly brush the fur in the direction of the hair growth using a wide-tooth comb or a soft pet slicker brush.
Light moisture: If your coat gets caught in light rain, shake it out and hang it to dry at room temperature — never near a heater or in direct sunlight. Once dry, gently shake again to restore the fur's natural fluff.
Matted fur: Use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to gently separate matted areas after the coat is fully dry.

What to avoid at home: Never machine wash, tumble dry, steam, iron, or submerge a fur coat in water. Water can shrink and harden the leather pelt, permanently damaging your coat.

Professional Fur Cleaning

We recommend having your fur coat professionally cleaned by a certified furrier at least once a year — ideally before summer storage. Professional fur cleaning is different from standard dry cleaning:

Furriers use specialised sawdust-based cleaning processes that clean without stripping natural oils.
They will also condition and glaze the fur to restore its sheen and softness.
A furrier can inspect for early signs of wear, thinning guard hairs, or leather issues and make repairs before they become costly.

Tip: Always choose a certified furrier who is a member of the Fur Council of Canada or equivalent professional body in your region.

Conditioning Your Fur Coat

Fur coats need to retain their natural oils to stay supple and lustrous. Signs that your fur needs conditioning include dull guard hairs, a slightly stiff or brittle feel, or shedding. Conditioning is a job for your furrier — they will apply specialised products that penetrate the pelt without coating the fur fibres.

Dealing with Stains

If you spill something on your fur coat:

Blot (never rub) the stain immediately with a clean, dry cloth.
Shake out the coat and allow it to air dry completely at room temperature.
Take it to a professional furrier as soon as possible — the quicker the treatment, the better the outcome.

Do not attempt to treat stains with household cleaners, water, or spot removers — these can permanently alter the fur's texture and colour.

When to Take Your Coat In for Repairs

Watch for these signs that your coat needs professional attention:

Excessive shedding of guard hairs
Dry, cracked, or stiff leather pelt
Seams or lining coming apart
Thinning patches or bald spots
Musty odour that won't air out

Ready to Add to Your Collection?

A well-maintained fur coat is a lifelong companion. If you're looking to invest in a new piece — or find the perfect addition to your wardrobe — explore our curated collection of genuine fur coats, each selected for its craftsmanship and quality.

Shop Our Fur Collection →

Have a question about caring for a specific type of fur? Contact our team — we're happy to help.

How to Care for a Fur Coat: Cleaning, Conditioning & Expert Tips