Fur coats, given the proper care, are meant to last from generation to generation. High quality furs are soft, supple and luxurious items that lend themselves well to longevity and reinvention, making fur one of the most versatile materials available. Fur coat cleaning is a vital step in the process to maintain the fur’s integrity while ensuring it consistently looks its best.

So what should you know about fur cleaning to make sure it’s done properly? First, always take your fur garments to a trusted furrier in lieu of a standard cleaning service. Second, cleaning and conditioning your fur coats should be a priority each year. Once you take your fur coat to a professional furrier, the cleaning process should play out in these steps:

• The furrier should examine your garments to determine their age and condition, paying special attention to rips or tears that need repairing before the garments are placed into the fur-cleaning drum.

• Any spots on your fur along with the lining should be cleaned by hand.

• Once the lining has been cleaned and spots have been removed, your fur coats are ready for the drum. The cleaning drum contains sawdust and a gentle, environmentally safe cleaning solution.

• When your garments are removed from the drum, they’re placed in a cage with a vacuum that tumbles the furs to shake out any residual sawdust.

• After the tumble, your furs should be steamed by hand.

• Next, your fur is placed into a machine that uses rollers to lift and separate the hairs, returning them in a uniform direction. This process is sometimes called glazing or electrifying.

• After glazing, the furs are examined again for spots or areas in need of repair.

• Finally, your fur coats should be steamed again before being handed over in pristine condition.

If the fur cleaning process seems rigorous, it is. The painstaking cleaning process is designed to maximize the life and look of your fur so you get the most out of your investment. It’s important to remember that fur is essentially hair. Fur easily traps dirt and oils near the leather base which can rob your garments of their shine and create a matted appearance. Additionally, fur absorbs odors and dust that can only be completely removed by following the procedure listed above.

Give your fur the attention it deserves so it lasts a lifetime. Keeping your fur garments consistently clean is the best way to keep them looking and feeling new, year after year.