Maintaining fur and pelts requires a careful approach. Because they're natural fibres, the biggest enemies are drying out, moths, and moisture. Whether it's a historical cloak, a decorative pelt, or a historical accessory, with the right care these items will last for generations.
Here's how to keep them in top condition.
1. Daily maintenance and storage
Brushing
Brush the fur regularly with a coarse comb or a special fur holder (a brush with wide, rounded teeth).
Technique: Always brush in the direction of the hair. This removes dirt and dust that settle between the hairs and prevents the fur from matting.
Storage (Crucial for longevity)
Breathability: Never store fur in plastic bags; it needs to breathe. Use cotton covers.
Cool and dark: Hang the item in a cool, dark place. Heat dries out the leather under the fur, and direct sunlight causes discolouration.
Space: Give the fur room to breathe. If it hangs compressed for too long, the hairs can become "flattened" and lose their elasticity.
2. What if the fur gets wet?
Rain or snow doesn't have to mean the end, as long as you handle it correctly:
Air dry naturally: Shake the item well to remove excess water. Then hang it on a broad, well-supporting hanger in a room with good ventilation.
Avoid heat: Never place it near heating or in the sun. If the leather under the fur dries too quickly, it becomes stiff and can crack.
After-care: Once the item is completely dry, you can gently brush it again to restore its natural "fluffiness".
3. Preventing pests
Moths and carpet beetles love animal materials.
Cedarwood: Place blocks of cedarwood in the cupboard; the smell repels moths.
Natural repellent: Don't use chemical mothballs (the smell gets into the fur and is unhealthy).
Air and light: Take your fur items out of the cupboard occasionally during the summer months. An hour of airing in a shady spot with a fresh breeze works wonders.
4. Cleaning: "Don'ts" and "Do's"
NEVER wash: Never put a pelt or fur item in the washing machine or soak it in water. This destroys the leather under the fur (it becomes hard as cardboard).
Professional cleaning: If the item is really dirty (stains, odours), take it to a fur trader or specialised dry cleaner who has experience with natural pelts.
Home method (for light odours): Sprinkle a tiny amount of cornstarch or talcum powder over the fur, let it soak in for a few hours (this absorbs grease and odour) and then shake/brush it out very thoroughly.
5. Workshop checklist
[ ] Coarse-toothed comb or fur holder.
[ ] Cedarwood blocks (for storage).
[ ] Broad, wooden clothing hanger (to maintain shoulder shape).
Expert tip: Does the leather on the underside feel stiff or dry? Don't try to oil or grease the leather yourself; this can permanently damage or discolour the fur hairs. With serious drying of the underlying leather, the only safe option is a specialist.
