How To Wash A Faux Fur Jacket (step-by-step Guide)
Ah, the faux fur jacket! That cozy, stylish, and utterly fabulous piece that adds a touch of glamour to any outfit. Whether you’re rocking a dramatic teddy bear coat, a sleek faux mink, or a playful spotted number, keeping your faux fur looking its best is key to its longevity and your continued adoration. But here's the thing: washing faux fur can feel a little intimidating. You might be picturing a matted, sad pile of fluff after a rogue spin cycle. Fear not, fashionista! Caring for your beloved faux fur is surprisingly simple and can even be a bit of a therapeutic ritual. Think of it as giving your favorite cozy companion a spa day. This guide will walk you through the process, step-by-step, so you can keep that luxurious sheen and softness for seasons to come. No more dry cleaning bills, no more mystery stains, just pure, unadulterated fluffy fabulousness.
Why Bother Washing Your Faux Fur?
Let's be honest, that faux fur jacket is probably a star player in your wardrobe. It’s the ultimate confidence booster, the perfect finishing touch, and the go-to for those chilly evenings or when you just want to feel a little extra. But, like any beloved garment, it accumulates a bit of life. Think of the dust bunnies that cling, the occasional spill that happens, the city grime that settles, or even just the natural oils from your skin and hair. Over time, these elements can dull the shine, make the fibers feel less plush, and frankly, make your jacket smell less than delightful. Regular care isn't just about appearances; it's about preserving the integrity of the fibers. Gentle washing helps to remove buildup that can weigh down the faux fur, preventing matting and keeping it looking and feeling as soft and vibrant as the day you bought it. Plus, a clean jacket is a happy jacket, and a happy jacket means you'll want to wear it more, and isn't that the whole point?
Getting Started: A Little Prep Work Goes a Long Way
Before we dive into the actual washing process, a little preparation will make everything smoother. First things first, check the care label! This is your golden ticket to knowing exactly what your specific jacket can handle. Most faux fur is pretty forgiving, but it’s always best to be sure. If the label says dry clean only, you might want to err on the side of caution and stick to that, or seek professional help. However, if it allows for hand washing or a gentle machine wash, you're in luck!
Next, give your jacket a good shake-out outdoors. This helps to dislodge any loose dirt, debris, or pet hair that might be clinging to the fibers. Imagine giving it a good dusting – it’s surprisingly effective! If you notice any particularly stubborn stains, now is the time to pre-treat them. A gentle stain remover or a dab of mild detergent directly on the spot, worked in with your fingers, can work wonders. Just be sure to test any stain remover on an inconspicuous area first, like the inside hem, to ensure it doesn’t cause any discoloration.
Finally, prepare your washing station. If you're hand washing, a clean bathtub or a large basin will be your best friend. Make sure it's free of any residual cleaning products that could damage the faux fur. If you're opting for a machine wash, select a gentle cycle and gather your supplies.
The Gentle Wash: Hand Washing for Ultimate Care
Hand washing is often the preferred method for faux fur because it gives you the most control and is the gentlest approach.
Step 1: Fill your basin or tub with cool or lukewarm water. Avoid hot water, as it can damage the fibers and the backing of the faux fur.
How To Wash A Fake Fur Coat at Lauren Harris blog
Step 2: Add a small amount of mild detergent. Think baby shampoo, a gentle laundry detergent for delicates, or even a specialized faux fur cleaner. You don't need much – just enough to create a light lather. Swish it around to distribute evenly.
Step 3: Submerge your jacket. Gently press it down into the water, allowing it to soak for about 10-15 minutes. Don't agitate it vigorously; the goal is to let the water and detergent do the work.
Step 4: Gently work out any dirt. With clean hands, very softly agitate the water and gently squeeze the faux fur. You can also use a soft-bristled brush or a wide-tooth comb to gently work through any tangled areas, but be extremely careful not to pull or tug.
Step 5: Drain and rinse. Once you're satisfied, carefully drain the soapy water. Refill the basin with clean, cool water and repeat the rinsing process until all the soap residue is gone. This is crucial – leftover detergent can make the fur stiff and clumpy.
Machine Washing: A Quick and Convenient Option
If your care label permits and you're short on time, a machine wash can be a good alternative. However, it requires extra caution.
Step 1: Use a mesh laundry bag. Place your entire jacket inside a large, mesh laundry bag. This protects the faux fur from snagging and getting tangled with other items.
Step 2: Select the right cycle. Set your washing machine to the gentle or delicates cycle. Use cold or lukewarm water. Never use hot water!
Step 3: Choose your detergent. Use a small amount of mild detergent, just as you would for hand washing. Avoid fabric softeners, as they can coat the faux fur fibers and reduce their fluffiness.
Step 4: Skip the spin cycle or use a low setting. If possible, opt out of the spin cycle altogether. If you must use it, select the lowest spin speed available. This minimizes stress on the fibers.
Step 5: Consider a second rinse. After the cycle is complete, you might want to run an extra rinse cycle with cold water to ensure all detergent is removed.
Drying Your Faux Fur: The Key to Fluffy Success
This is arguably the most important step. Never, ever put your faux fur jacket in the dryer on high heat! The heat can melt the synthetic fibers, leading to irreversible matting and damage.
Step 1: Gently squeeze out excess water. Once out of the wash, carefully press the jacket to remove as much water as possible. Do NOT wring or twist it, as this can damage the fibers.
How to Clean Faux Fur: 10 Steps (with Pictures) - wikiHow
Step 2: Roll it in a towel. Lay your jacket flat on a large, clean towel. Roll the jacket up inside the towel, pressing gently to absorb more moisture. You might need to repeat this with a dry towel.
Step 3: Air dry. The best way to dry your faux fur is to let it air dry completely. Lay it flat on a drying rack or hang it on a padded hanger. Make sure it’s not bunched up, allowing air to circulate around all the fibers.
Step 4: Fluff it up! While the jacket is still slightly damp or once it's dry, use a wide-tooth comb or a soft-bristled brush to gently comb through the faux fur. Work from the tips of the fibers downwards, teasing out any tangles and restoring its natural fluffiness. You can also gently shake it out to help the fibers separate.
Reviving and Maintaining That Luxe Feel
Once your jacket is completely dry and fluffed, you can give it a final once-over. If any areas still feel a little flat, you can use a handheld steamer on a low setting, keeping it a safe distance from the fur, to help revive the fibers. Just be cautious not to get the backing too wet.
To maintain that gorgeous softness and prevent future matting, store your faux fur jacket properly. Hang it on a wide, padded hanger to prevent shoulder stretching and deformation. Avoid storing it in plastic bags, as this can trap moisture. A breathable garment bag is ideal. With a little TLC, your faux fur jacket will remain your go-to piece for style and comfort for years to come!