The Right Way to Store Your Fur Coat at Home (And What to Avoid)

Why Proper Fur Storage Matters

A fur coat is not just a piece of clothing—it’s an investment, a family heirloom, or a memory wrapped in luxury. It’s important to store your fur coat properly to ensure its longevity. Whether you wear it often or only on special occasions, proper storage is critical to preserving its beauty and longevity. Improper storage is one of the top reasons fur coats lose their softness, develop odors, or even become damaged beyond repair.

Many people ask us: “How do I store my fur coat at home?” or “Do I need to store my mink coat differently than other clothing?” The answer is yes—fur requires care and attention.

Best Way to Store Fur Coats at Home in Summer

Summer is the season when fur coats are most at risk. Heat, humidity, and sunlight can dry out the leather backing of the pelts, leading to cracking, shedding, and irreversible damage.

To store your fur coat properly at home during the warmer months:

• Choose a cool, dark closet—never store fur near heat vents, windows, or in attics or basements.
• Hang the coat on a broad, padded hanger to maintain its shape.
• Use a cloth garment bag, not plastic. Plastic traps moisture and doesn’t allow the fur to breathe.
• Keep it loosely hung with space around it—don’t crowd it between other coats or garments.

How to Store a Mink Coat Safely at Home

Mink coats are particularly valuable and should be handled with special care. If you have one, here are a few additional tips to store your fur coat:

• Never fold a mink coat. Always hang it to avoid creases and matting.
• If your closet is dry, consider using a humidifier—but only if the air is overly dry. The ideal humidity for fur is around 45-55%.
• Don’t use cedar closets. The aroma can penetrate the fur and alter its scent permanently.
• If your coat has a belt, remove it and hang it separately to avoid indentations.

Before storage, inspect your coat for any wear, tear, or damage. If necessary, have repairs done before putting it away.

Common Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Fur Coat

Let’s talk about what *not* to do. These common errors can take a toll on even the most luxurious fur:

• Using mothballs: While they might seem like a good idea, mothballs can ruin the smell of the fur and don’t necessarily deter all pests.
• Storing in plastic: This is one of the worst things you can do. Plastic suffocates the fur, causing mildew and unpleasant odors.
• Leaving in sunlight: UV rays fade the natural color of the fur and dry out the leather backing.
• Placing heavy items on top of it: Never store anything on top of a fur coat, especially in bins or suitcases. Fur needs space and air circulation.

Also avoid home vacuum storage bags, wire hangers, or zip-up plastic containers to store your fur coat. These shortcuts can shorten the life of your coat.

Should You Use a Professional Furrier for Storage?

For optimal preservation—especially during the summer months or if you live in a humid area—you should store your fur coat with a professional furrier. They offer climate-controlled storage facilities with the right temperature and humidity levels.

While we don’t provide this service directly at Mano Swartz, we highly recommend reaching out to a trusted furrier in your area who specializes in off-season fur storage. It’s an affordable way to protect your investment and ensure the coat is in top condition year after year.

Professional fur storage is ideal if:

• You own a full-length mink or high-value designer coat
• Your home experiences extreme temperatures or humidity
• You won’t be wearing the coat for an extended period

How to Maintain Your Fur Coat Year-Round

Beyond storing your fur coat properly, it’s important to maintain your fur throughout the year to keep it soft, clean, and stylish.

Routine maintenance tips:

• Gently shake your coat after wearing to remove dust or debris
• Let it air out in a well-ventilated area before storing
• Avoid perfume or hairspray when wearing—it can stain the fur
• If it gets wet, shake it out and hang it in a cool place. Never use a hairdryer or heater to dry it.
• Schedule a professional fur cleaning annually to remove oils and pollutants

If the coat has a monogrammed lining or personalized interior, inspect it each season for loose stitching or stains.

Final Tip for Protecting Your Investment

Whether it’s a cherished heirloom, a personal luxury, or a stylish winter staple, your fur coat deserves proper care. You don’t need a luxury vault—just the right knowledge and a bit of space.

If you ever decide to sell it, properly stored fur retains more of its value. That means fewer surprises when it comes time to part with it.

Still have questions? Text us at **667-213-5985** for honest advice and helpful tips—whether you’re storing, selling, or simply learning how to care for your mink or fur coat.

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Trusted since 1889 — Mano Swartz